Fall on the Gulf Coast does not always feel like fall. In Baldwin County, you might wake up to a cool morning and still need the air conditioner by mid-afternoon.

So, what should you actually set your thermostat to?

The best fall thermostat setting depends on the weather, your comfort level, and whether you are trying to cool, heat, or simply manage humidity.

Start Around 76 Degrees on Warm Fall Days

When temperatures are still climbing outside, try setting your thermostat around 74 to 75 degrees while you are home.

If that feels too warm, lower it one degree at a time instead of making a major adjustment. Setting the thermostat dramatically lower will not cool your home faster. It simply keeps the system running longer.

When you are away from home, increasing the temperature a few degrees can help reduce unnecessary cooling.

Be Careful About Turning the AC Off Completely

A cool morning may make it tempting to shut the AC off and open the windows.

Sometimes that works. But remember that humidity is a major factor in South Alabama.

Your air conditioner does more than cool the house. It also removes moisture from the indoor air. On humid fall days, shutting the system off for long periods can leave your home feeling warm, sticky, or uncomfortable even when the outdoor temperature is relatively mild.

When It’s Finally Time for Heat

When temperatures drop enough to use the heat, a setting around 68 to 70 degrees is a reasonable starting point for many homes.

You do not have to keep changing your thermostat every time the outdoor temperature moves a few degrees. Find a comfortable range and let your HVAC system do its job.

Pride Tip: South Alabama fall weather can switch from AC to heat and back again within a matter of days. It is perfectly normal to switch between cooling and heating throughout the fall as temperatures change..

Take Advantage of a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures based on your daily routine.

For example:

• Morning: 74–76 degrees if cooling is needed
• Away from home: Increase the cooling setting by a few degrees
• Evening: Return to your normal comfort setting
• Cool nights: Let the system run less naturally instead of constantly adjusting it

Smart thermostats can make this even easier by learning your schedule, allowing remote adjustments, and helping you track system usage.

Fall Is Also a Good Time to Check Your HVAC System

Fall gives your HVAC system a break after months of heavy summer use, making it a good time to pay attention to how it is operating.

Change your air filter, check for unusual noises, make sure airflow is strong, and consider seasonal maintenance before colder weather arrives.

If your system struggles to maintain the temperature you set, runs constantly, or cannot control indoor humidity, there may be an underlying issue.

Need help keeping your Baldwin County home comfortable this fall? Call Pride HVAC at (251) 422-2439.

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