How to Reduce Energy Bills with HVAC Settings in Texas Homes

With utility costs rising and Texas temperatures hitting extremes, many homeowners are searching for simple ways to reduce their monthly energy bills—without sacrificing comfort. The good news? A few smart tweaks to your HVAC system’s settings can make a big difference.

At Tarrant Mechanical, we help DFW homeowners lower their energy consumption every day. Below are our expert tips on how to reduce energy bills with HVAC settings that maximize comfort while minimizing costs.

1. Adjust the Thermostat by Just a Few Degrees

You don’t have to crank the thermostat way up or down to see savings. Even a 2–3 degree adjustment can make a noticeable impact.

• Summer: Set your thermostat to 76–78°F when home, 82–85°F when away
• Winter: Aim for 68–70°F when home, 60–65°F when away

For every degree you adjust, you could save up to 3% on your bill.

2. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

One of the easiest ways to reduce HVAC energy use is by installing a smart thermostat. These devices allow you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine—and some even learn your habits automatically.

Benefits include:

• Reducing cooling/heating when no one is home
• Pre-cooling before you return without overworking the system
• Remote access via smartphone
• Monthly energy usage tracking

Tarrant Mechanical installs smart thermostats and can help you program them for optimal energy savings.

3. Use the “Auto” Fan Setting Instead of “On”

Many homeowners unknowingly waste energy by leaving their HVAC fan setting on “On” instead of “Auto.”

• Auto: Fan runs only when heating or cooling is actively needed
• On: Fan runs continuously, using more electricity and circulating unconditioned air

Switching to Auto mode reduces fan wear, saves power, and keeps humidity levels more balanced.

4. Set Up Energy-Efficient Temperature Zones

If you have a larger home or areas that aren’t always occupied (like guest rooms or upstairs lofts), consider using zoned HVAC systems or adjusting airflow to prioritize high-use spaces.

If you already have zoning capabilities:

• Set unoccupied zones to higher temps in summer, lower in winter
• Focus energy use where your family spends the most time
• Close vents strategically—but never too many, or it can strain the system

We can help you evaluate your current ductwork and recommend safe ways to optimize comfort while cutting energy use.

5. Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes

Avoid the temptation to quickly “blast” your A/C or heat after being out all day. Sudden, extreme adjustments force your HVAC system to work harder—spiking your energy consumption and stressing your unit.

Slow, scheduled adjustments through your thermostat are more efficient and easier on the system.

6. Adjust Settings Seasonally

Don’t leave your HVAC settings the same year-round. Adjust fan speeds, thermostat programs, and air direction based on the season:

• Summer: Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise and keep your A/C slightly higher
• Winter: Set fans clockwise and raise heat gradually
• Update thermostat schedules before each season change

We offer seasonal HVAC maintenance that includes checking and optimizing these settings for you.

7. Schedule a System Tune-Up

Even the best HVAC settings won’t save energy if your system isn’t running efficiently. Seasonal tune-ups ensure:

• Proper refrigerant levels
• Clean coils and filters
• Correct airflow and duct balance
• Accurate thermostat calibration

At Tarrant Mechanical, our technicians fine-tune your system so every setting you apply actually delivers results.

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