When the weather changes, your home’s temperature should follow. Many Americans keep their thermostats set the same way all year, but that habit can waste energy and money. By adjusting your heating and cooling to match the season, you can stay comfortable while lowering your utility bills and reducing your environmental impact.

Know Your Heating and Cooling Needs Year-Round

Your home doesn’t need the same level of heating or cooling every month. In spring and fall, outdoor temperatures often fluctuate between warm days and cool nights. During those times, you can turn down the heat or air conditioning during the day when the sun naturally warms your home. In winter, you’ll need more heat, but even small adjustments can make a big difference.

A good rule of thumb is:

• Winter: Keep living areas around 68°F when you’re home and awake, and lower it to 60–62°F at night or when you’re away.
• Spring and Fall: 66–68°F is usually enough for comfort.
• Summer: Set your air conditioner to about 78°F when you’re home, and higher when you’re away.

Following the rhythm of the seasons helps you avoid wasting energy when nature is already doing part of the work.

Use Your Thermostat Wisely

Modern thermostats can do much more than just turn the heat on and off. Programmable and smart thermostats automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, saving energy without sacrificing comfort.

• Turn down the heat or AC when you’re not home. There’s no need to keep an empty house at full comfort temperature.
• Close doors between warmer and cooler rooms. This keeps conditioned air where you need it most.
• Avoid heating or cooling while windows are open. Fresh air is great, but open windows can quickly undo your system’s work.

Lowering your thermostat by just one degree in winter can cut heating costs by about 5%. You’ll barely notice the difference in comfort—but you’ll see it on your bill.

Take Advantage of Sunlight and Weather

The sun is a free source of heat in winter and a natural light source year-round. Open curtains or blinds during sunny winter days to let warmth in, and close them at night to keep it inside. In summer, do the opposite: close blinds during the day to block heat and open them at night to let cooler air circulate.

Keep an eye on the weather forecast. On mild days, you can turn off the heat or AC entirely and let fresh air do the work. On humid or very cold days, make sure your system runs steadily enough to prevent moisture buildup or drafts.

Maintain Your Heating and Cooling System

An efficient system is a well-maintained one. Replace or clean filters every one to three months, depending on use. Have your furnace, boiler, or heat pump inspected annually to ensure it’s running efficiently. A clean, tuned-up system uses less energy and lasts longer.

If your equipment is more than 15 years old, consider upgrading. Newer ENERGY STAR®-certified systems can use up to 20–30% less energy than older models, and the investment often pays for itself through lower utility bills.

Make Seasonal Adjustments a Habit

Adjusting your home’s temperature isn’t just about technology—it’s about habits. Make it part of your seasonal routine: check your thermostat settings when you switch from daylight saving time, or when you notice the weather shifting. Small, regular adjustments are more effective than big changes after your energy bill arrives.

You can also use your utility company’s app or a smart home system to track your energy use in real time. Seeing how your habits affect consumption makes it easier to spot opportunities to save.

Comfort and Savings Can Go Hand in Hand

Saving energy doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. It’s about using energy wisely—where and when it matters most. By adjusting your heating and cooling to the season, you’ll enjoy a healthier indoor climate, lower energy costs, and a smaller carbon footprint.

With just a few mindful changes, you can make a noticeable difference—for your home, your wallet, and the planet.