How to Program a Thermostat for Each Season

Whether it's the biting cold of a Minnesota winter or the humidity of a Midwest summer, programming your thermostat properly can make a huge difference in your comfort—and your energy bills. A well-programmed thermostat helps regulate indoor temperatures efficiently, reducing strain on your HVAC system.

At MD’s Heating and Air Services, your go-to HVAC company for Minnesota heating and air conditioning, we help homeowners make the most of their systems with expert AC repair, AC maintenance, and HVAC installation services. Let’s walk through how to program your thermostat for each season to optimize comfort and save on costs.

Why Thermostat Programming Matters

Thermostats control when and how your HVAC system runs. Whether you have a traditional programmable thermostat or a smart one, customizing the settings by season ensures:

  • Greater energy efficiency
  • Lower utility bills
  • Less wear and tear on your system
  • More consistent indoor temperatures

These benefits are especially important in regions like ours, where heating and cooling are a year-round necessity in Minnesota due to fluctuating temperatures.

General Programming Tips

Before we dive into seasonal settings, keep these programming best practices in mind:

  • Set the temperature a few degrees lower in winter and higher in summer when you're asleep or away.

  • Avoid drastic temperature changes—consistency helps your system work more efficiently.

  • Use the “hold” feature sparingly; it can override energy-saving settings.

  • Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat if you haven’t already.

Winter Thermostat Settings

Recommended Setting:

  • When Home: 68°F
  • Sleeping/Not Home: 60–62°F

Why it Works:

Minnesota winters are no joke. Setting your thermostat to 68°F while you’re home balances warmth and energy use. Lowering the temperature while you sleep or are away prevents overuse and helps reduce heating costs.

Bonus Tip: Pairing thermostat adjustments with scheduled HVAC maintenance in the fall ensures your furnace runs efficiently all winter.

Spring Thermostat Settings

Recommended Setting:

  • When Home: 65–68°F
  • Sleeping/Not Home: 60–64°F

Why it Works:

Spring weather is unpredictable. Mild days mean you can often use less heating or delay switching to cooling. Keep a flexible schedule and monitor outdoor temperatures.

Now is also a great time to book an AC maintenance before the summer heat kicks in. A clean, tuned-up system responds better to thermostat commands and keeps you comfortable through rising temperatures.

Summer Thermostat Settings

Recommended Setting:

  • When Home: 75–78°F
  • Sleeping/Not Home: 78–82°F

Why it Works:

During a Minnesota summer, keeping the AC at 78°F while you're home can help you stay comfortable without overworking your system. Raising the temp slightly when you’re out helps your air conditioner rest.

If your AC struggles to cool your home despite proper settings, it may be time for AC repair or a complete AC installation. Our team can assess your current setup and recommend the most suitable solution.

Fall Thermostat Settings

Recommended Setting:

  • When Home: 66–70°F
  • Sleeping/Not Home: 60–65°F
     

Why it Works:

Cooler nights and warmer days mean your HVAC system may not have to work as hard. Adjust gradually as the season shifts.

Fall is also the ideal time for a system check-up. Schedule your annual HVAC maintenance with MD’s to make sure your furnace, ducts, and thermostat are ready for winter.

Programming Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats like Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell let you:

  • Adjust temperatures remotely via phone
  • Learn your daily habits and automate schedules
  • Monitor energy usage over time
  • Get alerts for AC maintenance or HVAC repair needs
     

They’re perfect for busy families or anyone looking to improve their Minnesota heating and air conditioning system. During a new HVAC installation, we often recommend pairing your system with a smart thermostat for maximum control and efficiency.

Signs You May Need Help from a Pro

Even with the right settings, your HVAC system should respond consistently. If you notice:

  • Inconsistent temperatures across rooms
  • Short cycling (frequent on/off behavior)
  • High energy bills without usage changes
  • Unusual noises or poor airflow

…it may be time to call a professional for AC repair or HVAC maintenance. At MD’s Heating and Air Services, we’ll inspect your system and ensure everything—from thermostat to air filter—is operating as it should.

Trust Minnesota’s Comfort Experts

From HVAC installation to seasonal AC maintenance, MD’s Heating and Air Services is your trusted partner in keeping your home perfectly comfortable, year-round. As a family-owned HVAC company, we understand the demands of heating and cooling in MN, and we’re here to help you make the most of your system.

Ready to optimize your home’s comfort and efficiency? Contact MD’s Heating and Air Services today to schedule service or learn more about smart thermostat options tailored to your needs.