While fall naturally brings with it lower temperatures, the season isn’t always consistent in its weather patterns. That can make it difficult to properly set your thermostat. You may be surprised by a bout of warmth in late autumn, or it might become unusually cool early in the season. How can you remain comfortable given these erratic changes? Here’s what you need to know.

How to Set Your Thermostat in the Fall

What Is the Best Way to Handle Unpredictable Temperatures?

During fall, it’s not unusual to experience warm weather one day and dramatically cooler temperatures the next. According to the United States Department of Energy, setting your thermostat to 68°F is the best way to save energy at the end of the year. This will keep your home comfortable on those warm days and won’t feel unbearable when it’s cooler outside. Layering up with warm clothes can help, too.

Should the Temperature Remain the Same All Season Long?

The less you adjust the temperature on the thermostat, the better it is for your heating system’s efficiency. However, there are occasions when it’s useful to change the temperature. When you leave home for the day or when you go to sleep, for example, there’s no need for the unit to run constantly. Dialing the thermostat back anywhere from 7 to 10°F will reduce your home’s annual energy consumption.

How Are Programmable Thermostats Helpful?

If you have a programmable thermostat, you can set it to automatically change at the appropriate times of day and revert to a more comfortable temperature when you return home or wake up. If you have a standard thermostat, leave the temperature at 68°F to prevent the heating system from working overtime. Maintaining this standard level will also prevent high humidity levels, which can affect the quality of your indoor air.

Is your HVAC system prepared for the change of season? The contractors at Blue Ox Heating & Air in New Hope, MN, offer everything from standard maintenance to furnace repairs. They’ll inspect the heating system to make sure that it’s ready to keep you comfortable throughout fall and into winter. They can also check on the condition of your thermostat to make sure that it’s working properly and contributing to the unit’s efficiency. Visit the company’s website to learn more about their services or call (612) 217-7759 to schedule an appointment.