Thermostat settings by state
Thermostat settings in Louisiana
By Ismail Farooq · Updated 2026-10-30
How most homes heat: Central AC with electric heat pumps or gas furnaces; heating is a small part of the year.
Louisiana is one of the most humid states. AC sized too big cools quickly but doesn’t run long enough to remove moisture, leaving the house cold and clammy. Fan on Auto, a slightly lower fan speed if your system allows it, and a thermostat dehumidify setting all help.
Hurricanes and long power cuts are part of life on the coast. After the power returns, check the thermostat’s equipment settings and schedule; see after a power outage.
Climate zones in Louisiana
| Place | IECC zone |
|---|---|
| New Orleans | 2A |
| Baton Rouge | 2A |
| Lafayette | 2A |
| Shreveport | 3A |
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 Louisiana
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.
| Zone | Aux heat lockout (electric strips) | Compressor lockout (dual fuel) |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | About 40 °F. Aux heat should almost never be needed. | Rarely needed |
| 3 | 35–40 °F | Around 25–35 °F, by gas vs electricity price |
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.