Thermostat Settings
Thermostat Settings | Air Conditioning | Heating and Air Conditioning | Soddy-Daisy
When summer days in Soddy-Daisy crank up the humidity, HEP’s team makes dialing in the perfect temperature easy. We’ll show you how smart thermostat settings can keep your home crisp without sending your utility bill through the roof, automatically easing back when you’re away and cooling fast the moment you walk in. Our technicians know the sweet spot between comfort and conservation, and we set everything up so you can adjust it from the couch—or the lake—using your phone.
From precision zoning to routine tune-ups, our experts treat your system like their own, extending equipment life while slashing surprise repairs. Pairing savvy thermostat programming with reliable air conditioning means you’ll sleep better, breathe easier, and spend more time enjoying that Tennessee sunshine instead of sweating it. Let HEP handle the science behind the settings, so all you feel is perfect, effortless comfort.
FAQs
What thermostat setting do you recommend for Soddy-Daisy’s hot, humid summers?
For a balance of comfort and energy efficiency, set your cooling thermostat to 78 °F (26 °C) when you’re home and awake. Every degree below 78 °F can add 3–5 % to your power bill. When you’re away for more than four hours, raise the setpoint 7-10 °F; the Department of Energy estimates this simple change can save up to 10 % a year on cooling costs while still allowing the house to recover quickly when you return.
What about winter—what’s an efficient heating setpoint for Soddy-Daisy?
Because winters here are generally mild, a setting of 68 °F (20 °C) while you’re home is usually comfortable. Lower the thermostat 7-8 °F (to around 60 °F) when you’re asleep or away for the day. Using these setbacks for at least eight hours can save roughly 1 % on heating for each degree of reduction, according to the DOE, without noticeable discomfort if you dress appropriately indoors.
Should I invest in a programmable or smart thermostat?
Yes. Programmable thermostats automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, ensuring savings even if you forget to change settings. Smart Wi-Fi models add remote control, learning features, and energy-use feedback. In the TVA service area, many utilities offer rebates on ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats, and households often see payback within one to two heating/cooling seasons through reduced electricity consumption.
My air conditioner keeps turning on and off rapidly after I lowered the thermostat—what’s happening?
Rapid cycling (short-cycling) often means the system is oversized or the thermostat’s differential is set too narrow. First, return the setpoint to its normal level and replace the thermostat batteries if applicable. Check the air filter and vents—restricted airflow can trigger short cycles. If the problem persists, call a licensed HVAC technician; refrigerant charge issues or incorrect thermostat placement (e.g., in direct sunlight) may be the cause and can damage the compressor if ignored.
How does Soddy-Daisy’s high humidity affect thermostat settings?
In our humid subtropical climate, indoor humidity above 55 % can make 78 °F feel muggy. Ensure your AC is sized and charged correctly so it runs long enough to dehumidify. Use the thermostat’s “Dry” or “Humidity Control” mode if available, keep interior doors open for air circulation, and run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during moisture-producing activities. Lowering the thermostat just to fight humidity wastes energy; address moisture first, then fine-tune temperature.
Is it better to leave the HVAC fan switch on “Auto” or “On”?
For most homes, “Auto” is best. The blower runs only during heating or cooling cycles, reducing energy use and allowing condensate on the AC coil to drain away, which helps control humidity. The “On” setting can improve air filtration and even out temperatures between rooms but increases utility bills and may raise indoor humidity in summer. If you need continuous air movement, consider a thermostat or system with a low-speed circulation mode to gain the air-mixing benefits at a lower cost.