For optimal winter heating with a heat pump, the best thermostat setting involves a comfortable range when you are home and a lower setting when you are away or asleep.
Recommended Heat Pump Thermostat Settings for Winter
Based on common energy-saving guidelines, the ideal thermostat setting for a heat pump during the winter heating season balances comfort and energy efficiency.
During Occupied Hours (When You Are Home)
- Target Temperature: Aim for the lowest comfortable setting, typically around 68-70°F.
- Mode: Set your system to “heat” or “auto.”
Setting the temperature in this range helps maintain comfort without overworking the heat pump, which is most efficient when maintaining a consistent temperature rather than making large temperature swings.
During Unoccupied Hours (When You Are Away or Asleep)
- Target Temperature: Program the thermostat to lower temperatures to around 62-65°F.
Lowering the temperature when you don't need the full comfort level can lead to significant energy savings. Modern programmable or smart thermostats make this easy by adjusting the temperature automatically based on your schedule.
Summary of Recommended Settings
Here's a quick look at the suggested winter heat pump settings:
| Condition | Recommended Temperature | Thermostat Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Occupied (Home) | 68-70°F | Heat or Auto |
| Unoccupied (Away/Asleep) | 62-65°F | Programmed Setback |
Remember that heat pumps operate differently than furnaces; they heat air gradually. Avoid manually turning the thermostat up drastically, as this can cause the auxiliary heat (which is less efficient) to kick in. Instead, rely on programming to return to your desired temperature gradually before you need it.
