Whether you should setback your thermostat or leave it at one temperature depends on your personal preferences and your energy-saving goals.
Setting back your thermostat means lowering the temperature when you are not at home or when you are sleeping. By doing so, you can save money on your energy bills by reducing the amount of energy your heating or cooling system uses when you don't need it.
If you prefer a consistent temperature throughout the day and night, then you may want to leave your thermostat at one temperature. However, keep in mind that this can lead to higher energy bills, as your heating or cooling system will run constantly to maintain the same temperature.
Ultimately, it's up to you to decide what works best for your home and lifestyle. If you're looking to save money on your energy bills, consider setting back your thermostat during times when you are not at home or when you are sleeping. A general rule is that setbacks should only be used for periods longer than 8 hours. You may also want to invest in a programmable or smart thermostat, which can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule.
Thermostat Setbacks with Heat Pumps
Thermostat setbacks can be effective with heat pumps, but it depends on the type of heat pump you have and the climate you live in.
Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the outside air and bringing it inside to warm your home. They are generally more efficient than other heating systems, but they can lose efficiency if the temperature outside drops too low. In areas with very cold winters, setting back the thermostat may not be as effective because the heat pump may have to work harder to bring the indoor temperature back up to the desired level.
However, in milder climates or during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when the temperature is not too extreme, setting back the thermostat can help save energy and reduce your energy bills. In these conditions, the heat pump can more easily maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and recover from the setback.
It's important to note that some heat pumps have "smart" thermostats or controls that can automatically adjust the temperature based on the weather and your schedule, so you don't have to worry about setting the thermostat manually. If you're not sure whether thermostat setbacks are effective with your heat pump an A.J. LeBlanc Heating Home Comfort Advisor can provide guidance based on your specific system and location.