How to Program Your Thermostat for Energy Savings

Smart settings = lower bills, better comfort

With July heat in full swing, your air conditioning system is working overtime to keep your home cool. But did you know that adjusting your thermostat settings can make a major difference in both comfort and energy savings?

At Grille Mechanical, we help homeowners across New Jersey and Florida get the most out of their HVAC systems. Here’s how to program your thermostat this summer for maximum efficiency—without sacrificing comfort.

Why Thermostat Settings Matter

Your thermostat is more than just a temperature dial—it’s the brain of your HVAC system. The way it’s programmed affects:

• How long your system runs

• How much energy it consumes

• Your overall monthly cooling costs

A few small changes can add up to big savings—especially during peak summer months like July and August. Best Thermostat Settings for Summer

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the ideal thermostat setting in summer is:

🌡️ 78°F (25.5°C) when you’re home🌡️ 85°F (29.5°C) when you’re away

This balances comfort and energy use. Of course, everyone’s preferences are different—but even bumping your A/C up by 1–2 degrees can cut your energy bill by up to 3% per degree.

Smart Thermostat Schedule Example

Here’s an ideal summer schedule if you’re away from home during the day:

Time	Setting	Reason
6:30 AM – 8:00 AM	76–78°F	Wake-up comfort
8:00 AM – 5:30 PM	82–85°F	Save energy while you're out
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM	76–78°F	Cool down for evening
10:00 PM – 6:30 AM	78–80°F	Overnight savings + comfort

Note: Adjust based on your sleep and work habits. For families or pet owners, keep cooling within safe comfort ranges.

Smart Thermostat = Smart Savings

Upgrading to a smart thermostat (like Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell) allows you to:

• Program by time or room

• Control settings remotely via smartphone

• Learn your habits and auto-optimize over time

• Receive alerts if something’s off with your system

Bonus: Many utility providers offer rebates for installing a smart thermostat. Ask Grille Mechanical about local rebate options in NJ or FL.

Extra Energy-Saving Tips

While setting your thermostat smartly is key, don’t forget:

• Change air filters monthly to keep airflow strong.

• Close blinds or curtains during peak sun hours.

• Seal leaks around windows and doors.

• Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air (just turn them off when you leave the room!).

Is Your Thermostat Working Like It Should?

If your home still feels too warm—or your energy bills are climbing—it may be time to upgrade or check for hidden system issues.

At Grille Mechanical, we offer:

✅ Thermostat upgrades ✅ Full HVAC inspections ✅ Smart home integration ✅ Expert repair & replacement

Call us today

 to make sure your home stays cool and efficient all summer long.