When you move into a home with a heat pump, even basic thermostat choices can feel expensive. That was the case for one renter in Atlantic Canada, whose summer cooling routine prompted a flood of practical advice from fellow heat pump users.

Here's what to know

The issue came up in Reddit's r/heatpumps, where a renter in a small two-level home from the 1960s with double-pane windows wrote: "I recently moved into a new house (renting) and there is a heat pump. I don't know the specs of it. As it's been really hot, we have been cooling the space with the pump."

They noted they kept the temp at 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) with the fan on auto during the day and turned it up to 28 C (82.4 F) at night and let the fan run.

"Is this a good method?" they asked. "I have never had a heat pump before. Any advice is appreciated." 

The back-and-forth focused on a simple summer question: whether to hold the indoor temperature steady or bump up the thermostat overnight.

One straightforward piece of advice was to not overthink it. Several commenters said a steady setting was a good starting point, especially if it was unknown whether the system was an old fixed-output unit or a new variable-speed model.

Others noted that nighttime conditions can change the equation. If temperatures outside drop, opening windows or pre-cooling the house may reduce the unit's workload and make it easier to sleep comfortably.

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More background

As one commenter put it, a heat pump in summer basically serves as an air conditioner. From that perspective, the usual cooling rules still matter: Keep the windows closed while the system is running, and use cooler outdoor air when it's available.

Because the renter didn't know the type of heat pump that was installed, several users noted that the best strategy depends on the equipment itself. Old single-speed systems may gain more from thermostat setbacks, while new inverter-driven units often work better when the temperature stays consistent and the system does not have to work hard to catch up.

Poorly timed thermostat changes can mean long run times, discomfort, and high electricity use, while adjustments such as modest setpoints, nighttime ventilation, and better equipment may cut costs without making the home less comfortable.

What can be done?

If you're learning an unfamiliar system, start with a moderate, steady setpoint and make small changes based on comfort. If the outdoor air cools off at night, windows and fans may help. And if sleeping comfortably is the priority, focus on a cool bedroom temperature instead of raising the thermostat.

For homeowners ready to improve their systems, Palmetto is worth a look. If you're not ready to spend upfront, the Comfort Plan offers $0 down options that can lower your heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. Palmetto Comfort Plans include 12 years of maintenance, which could help you avoid surprise service expenses.

You can also drive costs down further by pairing your efficient HVAC system with solar panels. EnergySage makes it easy to find the best solar system and installer for your home and budget, potentially saving you up to $10,000 on an installation.

As for the OP and their system, one commenter wrote: "You're doing it right for summer cooling. Just leave it running and set the thermostat where you're comfortable."

"Set it and forget it," someone else said.

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