Finding the best summer AC temperature can be tricky as heat waves hit. You want to stay cool without driving up your energy bills or overburdening your AC equipment. So, what temperature should you set your central air conditioner at in the summer? The ideal temperature will depend on your comfort level and circumstances. In this blog post, we discuss smart ways to cut utility bills by tracking outside temperatures, adjusting your thermostat according to your routine, and following a few simple tricks.
Best Summer AC Temperature Setting
To achieve the lowest cooling costs, you should aim to keep the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures as small as possible. In summer, maintaining higher temperatures inside your house saves energy on air conditioning because it slows the heat flow from outside into your home. Finding the right temperature for your home is a matter of preference and circumstances.
Energy Star faced social media backlash when it suggested that home thermostats should be kept at 78°F when home during the day, 82°F when sleeping, and 85°F when out of the house for maximum savings. Not everyone finds those temperatures comfortable. According to a 2021 Consumer Reports survey, Americans typically set their thermostats to 71°F during the day and night, but this can vary by region.
If setting your thermostat to somewhere in the 80s sounds too warm, a good rule is to turn it up 7 to 10 degrees from your usual setting for eight hours a day to save up to 10% a year. Depending on your preferences, you can decide whether to keep your home cooler during the day or at night. Some people can sleep through the heat, while others may want to turn the thermostat up while they're away during the day so they can enjoy a more comfortable level once they return home.
Whatever you decide, don’t fall for the common thermostat myth that your AC will work harder to cool your space back to a comfortable temperature after the thermostat is set back, resulting in little or no savings. If your house is unoccupied for four hours or more during the day, it makes sense to adjust the temperature during those periods.
You can also try experimenting with the temperature, raising it 1° F at a time to see how it affects your comfort and budget. According to the Department of Energy, you can save about 3 percent on your utility bill for every degree you raise your AC thermostat.
Getting the Most from Your Home’s AC
Most air conditioners can handle a maximum temperature difference of 20°F between the inside and outside air. For example, if it's 90°F outside, you can set your thermostat to 75°F without issue. However, if it's over 95°F outside, your AC may need to run constantly to reach 75°F, which can increase utility costs significantly. It also increases the overall workload on your AC unit, shortening its lifespan by placing long-term strain on the system.
A smart or programmable thermostat makes it easy to match your cooling needs to your schedule, but you can make the adjustments manually if you don’t have one. When you turn on your air conditioner, avoid setting your thermostat to a colder-than-normal setting. It will not cool your home any faster. Instead, a low-temperature setting may lead to excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.
The location of your thermostat can affect its performance and efficiency. Read the manufacturer's installation instructions to prevent inaccurate readings or unnecessary air conditioner cycling. To operate correctly, a thermostat should be located on an interior wall away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, skylights, and windows. Furniture will block natural air movement, so do not place anything in front of or below your thermostat.
If your AC isn't reaching a 20°F difference between the inside and outside air temperatures, your AC unit might be undersized for your home or it might be time for maintenance. Regular professional check-ups can address potential problems and extend the lifespan of your system.
Maximizing Your Comfort
When outside temperatures soar, use the following tips to stay cool without driving up your energy bills or overburdening your AC equipment.
Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler by circulating the air. This allows you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
Close Blinds and Curtains: Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun's heat. This can help maintain a cooler indoor temperature.
Humidity Control: High humidity can make it feel warmer than it actually is. Using a dehumidifier can help maintain a comfortable indoor environment even at higher temperatures.
Special Considerations
Every home and individual is different, so it's essential to consider the following factors when choosing your ideal indoor temperature settings.
Health Needs: If you have young children, elderly family members, or individuals with health conditions, you may need to keep your home cooler.
Local Climate: In extremely hot or humid climates, setting the temperature lower may be necessary to achieve comfort.
Home Insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air more effectively, allowing you to set the thermostat higher.
Conclusion
Finding the right temperature for your AC during the summer is a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Starting at a 78°F setting when home and making adjustments based on your needs and preferences can help you stay cool while saving on energy costs. Remember, using fans, closing blinds, and considering programmable thermostats can enhance your home's comfort without overworking your AC system.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable summer and keep your energy bills in check. If you need AC advice, maintenance, or speedy repairs, let Extreme Air help you create the indoor climate oasis you deserve. We have trained professionals ready to help Southern California and St. George homeowners save money and stay cool. Contact us today!
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