What temperature should you set your thermostat to in the fall to save money? Is it better to turn it off completely when you’re away? How do smart thermostats help cut down your energy bills during autumn? If you live in the USA or UK and are asking these questions, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place.

As the leaves turn color and the air gets crisp, your heating bill starts creeping up. But what if you could enjoy a cozy home without burning through your wallet? The good news is: you can. This guide cuts through the confusion and gives you straightforward, money-saving thermostat tips tailored for fall in the USA and the UK.

Why Fall Thermostat Settings Matter More Than You Think

Autumn is that tricky in-between season. One day it’s warm, the next it feels like winter. That unpredictability makes it tempting to crank the heat at the slightest chill. But with energy prices soaring in both the United States and the United Kingdom, it’s vital to strike a balance between comfort and cost.

Read Also: How to Save Money on Gas

Setting your thermostat smartly during fall can save you hundreds per year, reduce carbon emissions, and extend the life of your heating system.

The Best Thermostat Setting for Fall to Save Money

Recommended Temperature Range

For both the USA and UK, energy experts recommend setting your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) during the day when you’re home.

When you’re asleep or away from home, lower it by 7-10°F (about 3-5°C). That means dialing it down to around 60-62°F (15-16°C). Doing this consistently can save you up to 10% a year on your heating bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Quick Tip: Each degree you lower your thermostat over an 8-hour period can save around 1% on your bill.

Night vs. Day Settings

• Day (Home): 68°F (20°C)
• Night (Asleep): 60-62°F (15-16°C)
• Away from Home: 60°F (15°C) or lower (if pets and plumbing are safe)

The Role of Smart Thermostats

If you’re serious about savings, investing in a smart thermostat is a game-changer. Brands like Nest, Hive, and ecobee learn your habits and adjust automatically. They also allow remote access—perfect for switching settings while you’re at work or away.

How Smart Thermostats Save You Money:

• Auto-Scheduling: Learns your routines and adjusts accordingly.
• Remote Control: Use your phone to change settings on the go.
• Energy Reports: See how and where you can save more.
• Integration with Weather Forecasts: Adapts settings based on local weather.

According to studies, smart thermostats can save 10-12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills annually.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Fall Savings

1. Use Programmable Thermostats Wisely

Set a daily schedule:

• 6 AM – 68°F (wake up warm)
• 9 AM – 60°F (out for work)
• 5 PM – 68°F (return home)
• 10 PM – 60°F (bedtime)

2. Layer Up

Before touching the dial, try adding layers. A cozy sweater or thermal socks can make a big difference without costing a penny.

3. Check for Drafts

Fall is the best time to inspect windows and doors. Seal up any gaps to prevent heat loss.

4. Optimize Sunlight

Open south-facing blinds during the day to let in warmth and close them at night to retain heat.

5. Use Zoned Heating

If possible, heat only the rooms you use. Close vents in unused rooms and shut the doors to concentrate warmth.

6. Maintain Your Heating System

Clean filters, bleed radiators, and schedule an annual maintenance check to ensure efficiency.

Common Mistakes That Cost You Money

• Overheating Empty Homes: Don’t heat your home when no one is around.
• Not Adjusting for Nighttime: Sleeping in cooler rooms is healthy and saves money.
• Frequent Temperature Fluctuations: Set and forget. Constantly adjusting wastes energy.
• Blocking Radiators or Vents: Keep furniture away to allow proper circulation.

Regional Considerations: USA vs UK

USA:

• Homes often use forced-air systems.
• Energy bills can be impacted by larger square footage.
• Smart thermostat adoption is widespread.

UK:

• Many homes use boiler and radiator systems.
• Smaller homes = quicker heating (and cooling).
• Hive and British Gas smart systems are popular.

Read Also: 10 Practical Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill in Winter

Regardless of system type, consistent temperature management is the golden rule.

Frequently Asked Questions on Thermostat Settings in Fall

Should I turn off the heat completely when I’m not home? A: No. Instead, set it to a lower temperature (around 60°F/15°C) to prevent freezing pipes and dampness.

Is it cheaper to use space heaters in the fall? A: Not usually. Space heaters can spike your electricity bill unless used for short periods in small spaces.

Are smart thermostats worth the cost? A: Yes. Most pay for themselves in 1-2 years through energy savings.

What if I live in a rental? A: Use radiator thermostats or portable programmable thermostats. Also, speak to your landlord about insulation improvements.

Final Thoughts: Fall into Savings Without the Chill

Fall is the perfect season to make small thermostat tweaks that yield big savings. With energy prices fluctuating and household costs on the rise, controlling your thermostat is one of the simplest, most effective ways to manage your bills.

By setting your thermostat to 68°F (20°C) during the day and dialing it down at night or when away, you strike the perfect balance between comfort and cost. Add a smart thermostat, seal up your home, and adopt a few cost-conscious habits, and you’ll see real results in your next bill.

The leaves might be falling, but your energy bills don’t have to rise.