What Temperature Should I Set My Air Conditioner in the Summer?
When the summer months roll around, every minute at home is spent fighting over the thermostat. Finding the perfect indoor temperature for everyone to enjoy is a herculean task for every head of the household — but outside of comfort, you also have to consider how your energy bills will be affected.
So, at what temperature should you set the air conditioner in the summer? The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone has their own preferences. However, the Department of Energy does offer temperature recommendations that can help you save money while staying comfortable.
Let’s dive into what temperature your air conditioner should be set to in the summer while you’re at home, asleep, or away.
Recommended AC Temperature for the Summer
While performing AC repairs in Alpharetta, GA, contractors often get asked what temperature air conditioners should be set to in the summer. To answer this question, we defer to the experts.
According to the Department of Energy, 78°F is the ideal temperature for your home during the summer months. This allows your AC unit to maintain the set comfort levels without being overworked.
But if this temperature seems high, you’re not alone! Most people like to keep their homes at a cool 72°F to be comfortable. That being said, the DOE has determined that raising the temperature by just one degree can help you save up to 3% on energy costs.
If you’re eager to lower your electricity bill, consider raising the thermostat settings and running the ceiling fans counterclockwise to create a downward draft of cool air.
What’s the Best Temperature for Sleep?
Whether your summer days are spent working or relaxing, keeping your home between 72°F and 78°F might not seem so bad during the day… but the same can’t be said for nighttime.
Have you ever struggled to fall asleep because your room is too hot? Our bodies associate heat with wakefulness, which is why our core temperatures drop at night to promote good rest.
A study performed by the National Institute of Health found that 60-67°F is the best temperature for sleeping. Now you know what temperature you should set your air conditioner at in the summer if you want to get a good night’s rest — but keep in mind that this will affect your air conditioner’s energy efficiency as well as your utility bills.
What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner On While Away
Do you have a programmable thermostat that keeps your home at an ideal temperature while you’re at home, asleep, or at work? It’s time to turn it off!
If you plan on being away for a prolonged period of time — as in, summer vacation — set your thermostat to 85°F and bask in the knowledge that you’re saving tons on energy bills. You can lower the temperature to something more comfortable on your smartphone before the big homecoming if you own a smart thermostat with WiFi capabilities.
This is only recommended if your house is empty. If you’re leaving furry friends behind, make sure the indoor climate is at least 78°F, if not cooler.
What Temperature Should the AC Be When Sick?
When someone in the house is feeling under the weather, getting the temperature right becomes even more important. So, what temperature should the AC be when you’re sick? The goal is to keep the space cool enough for comfort and rest, but not so cold that it causes chills or aggravates symptoms.
Generally, setting the thermostat between 70°F and 74°F is a good range when someone is sick. This temperature can help reduce discomfort from fever, make breathing easier, and create an environment that’s more conducive to rest. If you’re dealing with a cold or flu, cooler air can help reduce nasal inflammation, especially when paired with a humidifier to avoid dry air that can irritate the throat and sinuses.
Factors Influencing Your Ideal AC Setting
It’s clear that there’s no universal answer for what temperature your air conditioner should be set at. Every home runs differently, and each household has its own comfort preferences. Here are a few key factors that can influence your ideal setting.
Personal Comfort
Comfort is subjective. Some people prefer a cooler environment, while others are comfortable at higher temperatures. It’s essential to find a temperature that suits your family’s preferences without compromising on energy efficiency.
Humidity Levels
High humidity can make your home feel warmer than it actually is. Using a dehumidifier can help maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable.
Home Insulation and Airflow
Well-insulated homes retain cool air more effectively, reducing the need for lower thermostat settings. Additionally, ensuring proper airflow by keeping vents unblocked and using ceiling fans can help distribute cool air evenly throughout your home.
Tips for Maximizing Comfort and Efficiency
While knowing the best temperature to save money on air conditioning is a great start, it’s not the only way to cut costs this summer. There are several other changes you can make that add up. Let’s take a look at some smart ways to save money and improve comfort:
Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise during the summer. This setting pushes cool air downward, creating a wind-chill effect that makes the room feel cooler. With fans running, you can raise your thermostat by about 4°F without sacrificing comfort.
Invest in a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine. Smart thermostats take it a step further by learning your habits and adjusting settings automatically, leading to increased efficiency and energy savings.
Limit Heat-Generating Activities
Appliances like ovens and dryers generate heat, making your AC work harder. Try to use these appliances during the cooler parts of the day or opt for alternatives like grilling outdoors or air-drying clothes.
Keep Sunlight Out
Close blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block out sunlight. This simple step can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and lessen the load on your air conditioning system.
Why Calling an AC Professional Is Worth It
There’s a lot you can do on your own to make your home more efficient, but sometimes it pays to bring in a pro. Gagne Heating & Air Conditioning provides expert AC services in Alpharetta, GA, that go beyond just fixing things when they break.
We help families get more out of their systems — better comfort, better air quality, and better energy efficiency. If you’ve been struggling with inconsistent temperatures or high electricity costs, we’ll help you figure out what temperature your air conditioner should be set at based on your system’s capabilities and your home’s layout.
If you have rooms that stay warm no matter what you set the thermostat to, it might be time to consider zoning or a ductless solution. Gagne also specializes in ductless mini-split installation in Alpharetta, GA, which allows you to cool individual rooms without cooling the entire house.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best temperature to save money on air conditioning is the one that keeps your house cool enough without running your system too hard. For most homes, that means setting it to 78°F when you’re home and turning it up to around 85°F when you’re not.
Are you still not sure what temperature your air conditioner should be set at, or is your system not running as well as it should? Reach out to Gagne Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experts can help you get the right setup for your home, so you can stay cool without stressing about the electric bill. We regularly provide services throughout the greater Alpharetta area, including Cummings, Doraville, Dunwoody, Johns Creek, and Canton.
Turn to Gagne for the Leading Comfort Solutions in Alpharetta
Is your AC system on the fritz? Trust the experts at Gagne for an air conditioner repair in Alpharetta and beyond! We offer a comprehensive range of heating and cooling services that will keep your home comfortable year-round. Contact us to learn more!