Thermostat settings by state
Thermostat settings in Maryland
By Ismail Farooq · Updated 2026-10-30
How most homes heat: Heat pumps and gas furnaces in similar numbers; oil and propane in rural areas.
Maryland is mostly zone 4A, with colder western mountains. Heat pumps are very common in newer homes and suburbs, so aux heat settings matter. Baltimore rowhouses have the same upstairs-downstairs temperature problems as other rowhouses; a room sensor helps.
The state’s EmPOWER Maryland program runs through the utilities and has included smart thermostat rebates and peak-day programs. Check your utility’s current offers before buying.
Climate zones in Maryland
| Place | IECC zone |
|---|---|
| Baltimore | 4A |
| Annapolis | 4A |
| Salisbury | 4A |
| Hagerstown | 4A |
| Oakland | 5A |
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%.
- Cold, damp winters: if you have a humidifier, let the thermostat lower its target as it gets colder outside so windows don’t drip.
Heat pump lockouts for Maryland
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) |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 30–35 °F | Around 25–35 °F |
| 5 | 25–35 °F for a standard heat pump; lower for a cold-climate model | Around 20–35 °F |
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.