Keeping your Florida home comfortable without overworking your HVAC system (not to mention your wallet) can be a challenge. Homes in Rockledge, Palm Bay, and Sebastian face long, humid summers and bursts of cooler winter weather that put extra pressure on any thermostat setting.
Choosing the right temperature keeps your living spaces pleasant and helps save on energy costs. Here’s how to find the best balance for your home, with expert guidance from Ellington AC & Electric.
Best Temperature to Set Thermostat in Winter in Rockledge
Florida’s Space Coast winters are mild compared to the rest of the country. But cooler nights and the rare cold front do still happen. And when they do, you’ll want your heating system to work smart, not hard.
Recommended settings for winter comfort and efficiency:
- Set your thermostat to 68°F when you’re home and awake. This is warm enough for comfort and helps save on heating bills.
- Lower the setting by 6 to 8 degrees at night or when the house is empty. Use programmable features or your home automation system to simplify the schedule.
- Open blinds on sunny days to allow natural warmth and light in, helping your system work less.
Older homes throughout the Space Coast benefit from these simple practices, as they help maintain steady temperatures, reduce sudden spikes, and support both comfort and energy savings.
What Is the Best Temp to Set my Thermostat in Summer in Sebastian?
Summers in Sebastian (and across the rest of the Space Coast) come with intense heat, humidity, and heavy AC use.
The right thermostat settings ensure maximum comfort without energy waste.
- Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and need cooling. This is widely recommended for balancing comfort and efficiency.
- Raise the temperature 4 to7 degrees or more when you’re away; consider 82°F or higher if the house will be empty for several hours.
- Use ceiling fans to help circulate air. Fans make it feel cooler so you can keep your AC setting a little higher without sacrificing comfort.
- Seal leaks, close curtains, and schedule regular AC maintenance to support your thermostat’s work and keep utility bills under control.
By sticking with these settings and habits, Sebastian households can keep cooling costs in check while still escaping the summer heat indoors.
Programmable Thermostats vs Smart Thermostats
Technology can make temperature management easier than ever. But how do you choose between a programmable thermostat and a smart model?
Here are their key differences:
- Programmable thermostats let you set a weekly schedule in advance (for example, raise the temperature while you’re at work and cool things down before you return). They’re budget-friendly and reliable but must be updated manually if your routine changes.
- Smart thermostats connect to Wi-Fi, allowing you to adjust temperatures from your phone, learn your habits over time, and even sense when you’re away from home, making automatic adjustments for optimum efficiency. They also offer energy usage reports, voice control, geofencing, and reminders for maintenance or filter changes.
For Space Coast homeowners who travel often or want ultimate convenience, smart thermostats are a top choice. Programmable models work well for those with set routines and offer a solid jump in efficiency over manual controls.
Are Ductless Mini Splits More Efficient?
Mini split systems, known for flexibility and easy installation, are also extremely efficient, often outperforming central HVAC.
Here are some of the main reasons ductless mini splits outperform traditional central systems:
- Ductless design eliminates energy loss from leaky ductwork (which can waste up to 30% of cooled or heated air).
- Inverter-driven compressors use only as much power as needed, adjusting output in real-time to meet demand.
- Zoning capability allows you to heat or cool only the rooms you’re using, dramatically cutting energy waste.
- Average cooling costs can be 30 to 40% lower compared to central AC, especially in homes with multiple climate zones or additions.
If you’re considering a mini split upgrade or want advice on optimizing your existing system, Ellington AC & Electric can help you compare options and maximize efficiency.
Satellite Beach Trusts Ellington AC Electric for Thermostat Upgrades
Choosing the right thermostat or upgrading your home comfort system can feel overwhelming, especially with so many products and features available.
Ellington AC & Electric’s experienced local team helps Satellite Beach and Space Coast homeowners every step of the way. From recommending the best thermostat settings for summer or winter to expertly installing smart thermostats and high-efficiency mini splits, they’re committed to comfort, savings, and responsive service.
Ready to make your home more comfortable and energy-smart? Contact Ellington AC & Electric for help with thermostat upgrades, system tune-ups, and personalized advice for your Space Coast home.
