How to Program Your Thermostat for Every Season

By GOGO Heating
on
Person programming smart thermostat for different seasons

Is your home too chilly in winter, but stuffy by midsummer? Maybe the bills keep climbing, but your comfort never quite settles. Thermostats are the silent conductors of your indoor climate—yet most are set once and forgotten. At GOGO Heating, we know a few minutes of programming can mean months of savings and steady comfort.

Programming your thermostat isn’t just a “set it and forget it” task. It’s more like setting the tempo for your home—matching your daily rhythm and the unique demands of each season. Let’s walk through the steps to get it right, all year long.

Why Program Your Thermostat? 🕰️

Think of your thermostat as the brain of your heating and cooling system. It tells your furnace, heat pump, or AC when to work, and—just as importantly—when to take a break. By programming your thermostat, you:

  • Save money: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can shave up to 10% a year off heating and cooling costs by turning your thermostat back 7°–10°F for 8 hours a day.
  • Boost comfort: Wake up to a cozy home in winter, or walk into cool relief in summer.
  • Reduce wear and tear: Your equipment runs less, lasting longer and needing fewer repairs.
  • Support healthier air: Steady temperatures help with humidity control and indoor air quality.

Ignoring your thermostat is like leaving your car running in the driveway all day. Smart programming turns off the engine when you don’t need it, saving fuel and avoiding unnecessary strain.

Recommended Settings for Each Season 🌡️

Every season brings its own comfort challenges. Use these guidelines as a starting point. Then, adjust for your schedule and preferences.

Winter

  • When home and awake: Set to 68°F (20°C).
  • Sleeping or away: Lower by 7–10°F.
  • Pro tip: If you have radiant heating, changes take longer—so set gradual shifts.

Summer

  • When home and awake: Set to 78°F (26°C).
  • Sleeping or away: Raise by 7–10°F.
  • Pro tip: Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air so you can nudge the temp even higher without losing comfort.

Spring & Fall

  • These “shoulder” seasons are unpredictable. Program a moderate setting (around 70°F) and adjust weekly as weather swings.

For Commercial Spaces

  • Setback settings can be more aggressive after hours but avoid drastic swings that could challenge equipment or impact sensitive areas (like server rooms or product inventory).

Authoritative tip: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ENERGY STAR both recommend these temperature ranges for energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

How to Program Different Models

Not all thermostats speak the same language. Here’s how to get started, no matter what’s on your wall.

1. Digital/Programmable Thermostats

Classic programmable thermostats let you set daily or weekly schedules. Most offer four periods: wake, leave, return, sleep.

  • Use the “Set” or “Program” button.
  • Select the day or days.
  • Enter the start time and temperature for each period.
  • Repeat for each day or group.

If you’re unsure, check your user manual or look for a model number inside the thermostat cover and search for instructions on the manufacturer’s website.

2. Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats (Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell, etc.) often use apps or touchscreens. Many can even “learn” your routine.

  • Download the compatible app and connect the thermostat to Wi-Fi.
  • Set preferred temperatures and schedules through the app interface.
  • Enable geofencing if you want your thermostat to adjust when you leave or return home automatically.

Look for firmware updates to ensure you have the latest features and security.

3. Manual/Non-Programmable Thermostats

If your thermostat is mechanical or old-school digital, it won’t have a scheduling feature. Consider upgrading—new programmable or smart models pay for themselves in energy savings.

Tips for Maximizing Savings 💡

Programming is just the first step. Here’s how to squeeze even more value from your thermostat and heating system:

  • Keep doors and windows closed during heating/cooling periods.
  • Change filters regularly to maintain airflow and system efficiency. Learn more about filter care at our HVAC Maintenance page.
  • Avoid “cranking” the thermostat—it won’t heat or cool faster, just longer.
  • Use “hold” or “vacation” mode when away for extended periods.
  • Pair with ceiling fans to circulate air and allow for higher setpoints.
  • Schedule annual heating maintenance to ensure your system responds to programmed settings. See our Heating Maintenance service for details.
  • Install your thermostat away from drafts, direct sunlight, or appliances that can throw off readings.
  • Check local building codes or consult the International Residential Code (IRC) for placement and wiring safety.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before you start programming or swapping out any thermostat:

  • Turn off power at the breaker before removing any covers.
  • Confirm you have the correct wiring for programmable or smart thermostats.
  • Never force wires—if something doesn’t fit, call a professional.
  • If you see frayed wires or unusual connections, stop and seek help.
  • Always use batteries recommended by the manufacturer for backup power.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

Programming? Most homeowners and business managers can handle it—with a little patience and the manual in hand. But if you’re:

  • Upgrading from manual to programmable or smart
  • Dealing with unusual wiring
  • Unsure about compatibility with your heating or cooling system

…it’s wise to call a professional. Incorrect installation is a leading cause of short cycling, blown fuses, and even system failure.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When you schedule a thermostat upgrade or troubleshooting with GOGO Heating, our team will:

  • Assess your heating and cooling systems for compatibility
  • Safely disconnect and install the new device
  • Configure settings for maximum comfort and efficiency
  • Demonstrate programming steps and app features (for smart models)
  • Test system operation and check for code compliance

We never leave until your system runs smoothly and you’re confident using your new controls.

Prevention & Maintenance

A well-programmed thermostat makes maintenance easier, too. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:

  • Check settings at the start of each season. Small adjustments now prevent big headaches later.
  • Replace batteries yearly (or as indicated on the display).
  • Schedule annual maintenance for your HVAC system—catching small issues before they become big repairs.
  • Dust around your thermostat to keep sensors clean and accurate.

For more information, see the U.S. Department of Energy’s “Guide to Thermostats and Controls.”

Costs & Time Factors

  • Programming: 10–20 minutes for most models.
  • Upgrading to a smart thermostat: 30 minutes to 1 hour (more if wiring is complex).
  • Professional installation: Usually completed in one visit.
  • Energy savings: Most families see lower bills within the first season.

Remember, investing in a programmable or smart thermostat is an up-front cost that pays you back over time with every lower bill and fewer repairs.

When It’s an Emergency

If your thermostat fails on the coldest night or during a summer heatwave, don’t wait. Some issues—like failed wiring or a blank display—can leave your home without heating or cooling entirely. GOGO Heating offers 24 hour emergency service to get you back to comfort, fast.

FAQ

How often should I update my thermostat schedule?
At least twice a year—ideally, at the start of heating and cooling seasons.

Will a programmable thermostat work with any heating system?
Most modern thermostats work with standard HVAC systems, but heat pumps, radiant floors, or multi-stage equipment may need specific models. Always check compatibility or ask a professional.

Can I program different temperatures for different rooms?
Only if you have a zoned system or multiple thermostats. Otherwise, the thermostat controls the whole house or office.

What if I rent?
Ask your landlord before upgrading. Portable smart thermostats are available for some setups.

Local/Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal temperature swings, unexpected cold snaps, and humidity changes mean your thermostat settings aren’t “one size fits all.” Review and tweak your schedule after the first few days of each new season. Keep in mind: properly set thermostats are just one piece of the comfort puzzle. For more on thermostats near you, visit our Thermostats page.

Ready to take control of your comfort and savings?
Call GOGO Heating now — or reach us anytime at  844-467-0847 .

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