Program your thermostat efficiently
The U.S. Department of Energy says a programmable schedule can cut heating and cooling use about 10 percent when you actually use the setbacks.
What you'll learn
- The Department of Energy setpoints for San Diego (78°F home / 85°F away)
- Why raising 7–10°F when you're gone 8+ hours saves the most
- Why "fan auto" beats "fan on" for efficiency
- Whether a smart thermostat is worth asking the matched company to quote, not a guaranteed payback
Step by step
- Set a weekday schedule: cooler at bedtime, higher during workday.
- Use "hold" or "vacation" mode when leaving for 3+ days.
- Keep the fan on "auto," not "on."
- Replace batteries annually on battery-powered models.
Safety note
Nest, ecobee, and similar models can learn a schedule. Check sdge.com/rebates for any offer that is currently open.
Rather have a pro handle it?
We match homeowners with licensed local HVAC pros across San Diego County. You reach us directly, not a national call center.
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