Set the thermostat to a comfortable but efficient range while home—typically 68–70°F. Lower it a few degrees at night or when away, but avoid large setbacks that force the system to work harder later, especially during multi-day cold spells when lows stay in the teens.

Never let the house drop below about 55°F if plumbing is a concern. Consistent moderate temperatures protect pipes in exterior walls and unheated spaces better than deep setbacks followed by rapid recovery.

Programmable or smart thermostats help maintain schedules automatically. If you have a heat pump, large setbacks can trigger expensive auxiliary heat.

Cooley’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can advise on thermostat strategies and install smart controls for homes in Delta, Montrose, and Mesa counties.

Key Takeaways

• Aim for consistent moderate temperatures.
• Keep the house above 55°F to protect pipes.
• Use programming features wisely with heat pumps.

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