To Set Back or Not to Set Back? That Is the Question!

When it comes to saving energy and keeping your home comfortable, thermostat settings play a big role. Many homeowners use a setback schedule, lowering the temperature when they’re away or asleep to save on heating costs. But if you have a heat pump, is this actually a good idea?

Let’s dive into the pros and cons of thermostat setbacks and when you should—or shouldn’t—use them!

---

What is a Thermostat Setback?

A thermostat setback is when you lower (or raise) the temperature while you’re away or asleep to conserve energy. Many programmable and smart thermostats allow you to schedule these setbacks automatically, reducing energy usage during times you don’t need as much heating or cooling.

Example:

• 🔹 Daytime (Away) – Lower the temperature when you’re at work.
• 🔹 Evening (Home) – Raise the temperature when you’re back.
• 🔹 Night (Sleeping) – Lower the temperature slightly for better sleep.

This method works well for traditional heating systems like gas furnaces, but heat pumps are a different story!

---

Why Heat Pumps Don’t Like Setbacks

Unlike gas furnaces that generate instant heat, heat pumps work by transferring heat from the outside air. When you lower the thermostat significantly, the system has to work extra hard to catch back up—often triggering auxiliary or emergency heat, which is far less efficient and more expensive to run.

🚫 Big setbacks can lead to higher energy bills instead of savings!

Best Practice for Heat Pumps:

✔ Keep the thermostat at a steady temperature throughout the day.
✔ If you must use a setback, keep changes within 1-2°F to avoid triggering auxiliary heat.
✔ Use a smart thermostat with a geofence instead of a strict setback schedule.

---

The Benefits of a Smart Thermostat Schedule (or Geofencing!)

If you have a traditional heating system, a programmed thermostat schedule can absolutely help lower energy bills. But if you want an even smarter way to save energy without sacrificing comfort, consider using a geofencing feature instead!

📍 What is Geofencing? It uses your phone’s location to detect when you leave or return home, automatically adjusting the temperature as needed.

✅ Benefits of Scheduling or Geofencing:

• Saves Energy – No need to heat or cool an empty house!
• Prepares Your Home for Comfort – Warms up (or cools down) before you arrive.
• No Manual Adjustments – The system learns your routine.
• Prevents Excessive Heat Pump Strain – Unlike traditional setbacks, smart geofencing makes gradual changes to avoid triggering auxiliary heat.

---

The Bottom Line

If you have a gas furnace, a setback schedule can be a great way to save on energy costs. But if you have a heat pump, maintaining a steady temperature—or using a smart geofencing thermostat—is the best way to balance comfort and efficiency.

Not sure what’s right for your home? Let Aire Solutions help! Whether you need a thermostat upgrade or advice on optimizing your system, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today! 573-335-2665