Smart Spring Comfort: How to Save Energy with Thermostat Settings

As temperatures rise in Western Washington and the spring sun starts warming your home naturally, it’s time to give your thermostat a little seasonal attention. Smart thermostat settings not only help keep your home comfortable during April’s unpredictable weather, they can also help lower your energy bills.

At Air Handlers, Inc., we want to help you maximize your HVAC system this season. Here’s how to program (or upgrade) your thermostat for optimal spring comfort and savings.

 Update Your Schedule for Spring

During winter, your thermostat likely prioritized overnight heating and steady daytime warmth. But in spring, that same schedule can waste energy. Here’s how to adjust:

  • Set cooler temps at night: Spring nights are still chilly in Tumwater, but you may not need full winter heat. Try setting your nighttime temp to 60–64°F.
  • Reduce daytime heating: Take advantage of the afternoon sun. Lower your daytime heating target, or use moderate cooling on warmer days.
  • Transition smoothly: Spring in the Pacific Northwest is famous for temperature swings. Use gradual temperature shifts (1–2°F at a time) to stay comfortable without overworking your system.

Use Built-In Scheduling Features

If you’re away during the day, don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty home. Most programmable thermostats (even non-smart models) let you:

  • Set workday and weekend schedules
  • Program “away” and “sleep” modes
  • Use hold functions for vacations or travel

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this small change can reduce your heating/cooling bill by up to 10%.

Thinking About Going Smart? We’ve Got You Covered.

A smart thermostat takes efficiency a step further by syncing with your phone, learning your habits, and adjusting automatically. Benefits include:

  • Remote access: Control your home’s temperature from anywhere
  • Weather tracking: Many smart thermostats factor in local weather forecasts
  • Usage reports: See your energy patterns and get tips for improvement

At Air Handlers, Inc., we install and recommend smart thermostats that integrate seamlessly with your HVAC system and mobile device, helping you maximize comfort and cost savings.

 Not Sure Where to Start? Let Us Help.

Whether you want to optimize your current settings or install a new smart thermostat, our team is here to guide you. Spring is the perfect time to make your system smarter, cleaner, and more efficient.

Give us a call or book online to schedule your spring HVAC check-up and thermostat upgrade 360-357-4428.