Thermostat settings by state

Thermostat settings in Virginia

By Ismail Farooq · Updated 2026-10-30

How most homes heat: Electric heat pumps in most homes; gas furnaces in Northern Virginia and some cities.

Virginia is mostly zone 4A with hot, humid summers. Heat pumps are the most common heating system, so aux heat settings and small winter setbacks matter. The mountains in the southwest are noticeably colder.

Northern Virginia townhouses often have a gas furnace downstairs and a heat pump for the upper floors, each with its own thermostat. Check which type each thermostat controls before buying replacements.

Climate zones in Virginia

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 Virginia

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.