Thermostat settings by state

Thermostat settings in Georgia

By Ismail Farooq · Updated 2026-10-30

How most homes heat: Heat pumps and gas furnaces in roughly equal numbers; many homes have a gas furnace with central AC.

Georgia is hot and humid in summer and mild in winter, with colder weather in the north Georgia mountains. Two-story homes around Atlanta often have two systems, one for each floor, each with its own thermostat. Set the upstairs one a degree or two higher in summer; heat rises and it will still feel the same.

Dual-fuel systems (heat pump plus gas furnace) are common in newer homes. The heat pump can carry most winter days here, so set the compressor lockout low enough that the furnace only runs on the coldest mornings.

Climate zones in Georgia

Zones follow county lines on the 2021 IECC map, and some counties changed zone between code editions. DOE’s Building America climate zone map lists every county.

Starting settings

• Everyday setpoints: about 68 °F in winter and 78 °F in summer while you’re home, set back while you sleep or are out (DOE’s guidance).
• Gas, oil or propane furnace or boiler: setbacks of 7 to 10 °F are fine; use the thermostat’s early-start feature so the house is warm on time.
• Heat pump: keep winter setbacks small (2 to 4 °F) so a cold morning doesn’t bring on aux heat.
• Humid summers: use fan Auto, not On, and turn on the thermostat’s dehumidify or overcool setting if the house feels damp. Keep indoor humidity under about 60%.

Heat pump lockouts for Georgia

If you have a heat pump, these are starting points for the outdoor temperatures that control backup heat. Your installer’s balance point is better if you have it.

Rebates

Many utilities give rebates or bill credits for smart thermostats, sometimes in return for joining a peak-day program. Programs change often, so check your electric and gas utility’s website, or search by ZIP code in the ENERGY STAR rebate finder.