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The #1 Mistake Homeowners Make With Their Thermostats

Jun 8, 2025

Your thermostat is the command center for your HVAC system—and how you use it plays a huge role in both your comfort and your energy bills. At Jack Frost Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve seen a lot of preventable service calls caused by one simple issue:

The #1 Mistake? Constantly Changing the Thermostat Setting.

That’s right. Repeatedly adjusting your thermostat throughout the day can confuse your system, reduce efficiency, and actually lead to higher energy costs.


❄️ Why It’s a Problem

When you set the thermostat lower in the summer or higher in the winter thinking it’ll heat or cool faster, it doesn’t work like that. HVAC systems don’t “speed up”—they run at a steady rate. Cranking the temp drastically just makes the unit run longer, not faster.

Plus, fluctuating temperatures can:

  • Cause short cycling, which wears out your compressor.

  • Throw off humidity balance in your home.

  • Increase the need for emergency HVAC repair due to overuse.


🔥 What You Should Do Instead

  • Set it and forget it: Choose a temperature you’re comfortable with and leave it alone.
  • Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automate changes based on your schedule.

  • Avoid extreme settings—aim for 78°F in summer and 68°F in winter for a balance of comfort and savings.


💡 Bonus Tip: Thermostat Location Matters

If your thermostat is near a window, vent, or kitchen, it may read the wrong temperature and cause your system to overwork. Make sure it’s in a central, shaded part of the home away from direct heat or cold.


🛠️ Need Help With Your Thermostat or System?

If you’re noticing uneven temperatures, your AC isn’t blowing cold air, or you suspect a central AC issue, we can help.

📞 Call Jack Frost Heating and Air Conditioning at 865-573-5777 or visit www.jackfrostheatingandair.com to schedule a service appointment today!