Summer is already around the corner again, and once outdoor temperatures rise, so does your reliance on your central air conditioning system. AC allows you to enjoy cooling comfort inside your home, but deciding what temperature to set your air conditioner to in summer is an ever-returning dilemma. It can be tempting to crank the AC as low as possible for supreme cooling; however, AC systems require significant energy and associated costs to run consistently and meet your needs. So, as usage increases, so does your energy cost.
To help you save money and remain sustainable, BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair offers ideal solutions to maintain cooling needs during the summertime heat. Here, we will cover effective and sustainable practices for AC management to help you find a good temperature for AC in summer that meets your comfort needs.
Why Setting the Right AC Temperature Matters During Hot Months
While short-term relief from the blazing heat is undoubtedly needed, the long-term effect on your AC system’s efficiency could be jeopardized if you are not intentional with its usage. Increased usage puts increased strain on your AC system, naturally raising energy costs. During especially hot months, your AC will have to work harder and more often to achieve cooler temperature settings.
So, protect the lifespan of your AC system and costs by being mindful of its energy usage by setting the right AC temperature during hot summer months. Below, we offer recommendations for ideal AC temperatures to balance comfort and energy consumption.
What the U.S. Department of Energy Recommends for Summer Cooling
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the ideal temperature to set your AC at for comfort and savings in the summer is 78 degrees.
It’s recommended to maintain this temperature setting while in your home, bumping it up to 85 degrees while you’re out and 82 degrees while sleeping. Setting your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in summer will help you enhance energy savings and consumption when you need it most.
Adjusting Your Thermostat for Day vs. Night Comfort
Maintaining a preferred temperature inside your home is crucial to your comfort throughout both day and night. However, as the sun sets in the evening, outside temperatures are moderately lower, which means you have more liberty to increase your AC temperature at night, effectively contributing to energy savings.
It’s recommended to increase AC temps whenever possible and save the coolest settings for when they’re needed most during the heat of the day. So, as the sun sets, consider adjusting your thermostat about 2 degrees warmer or so.
How the Size of Your AC Impacts Energy Efficiency
A properly sized and installed AC system is crucial to delivering efficient cooling, energy savings, and a long-lasting system. However, more often than not, AC sizing is overlooked, leading to homeowners running improper systems that cause excessive energy usage.
Avoid the risk of energy overconsumption and secure improved comfort and savings with professional help. BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair will help you choose the right size AC system for your home based on the following factors:
- Regional Climate
- Home Size
- Insulation Needs
- Ceiling Height
- Windows (i.e., size, number, and type)
- Sun Exposure
Air Quality and Thermostat Settings—What’s the Connection?
Your air conditioning system plays a key role in maintaining indoor air quality. By improving air circulation and controlling humidity, your AC helps create a healthier home environment. If filters are dirty or ventilation is compromised, your system has to work harder, leading to increased energy use and potential wear.
That’s why regular maintenance, like replacing air filters and keeping vents clear, is essential. Not only does it support better air quality, but it also helps your thermostat maintain optimal cooling performance during the summer months.
Seasonal Differences in Thermostat Settings: Summer vs. Winter
Just as temperatures fluctuate between day and night, seasonal changes call for different heating and cooling needs to ensure a comfortable home. Both seasons require increased reliance on our thermostats, so it’s important to be mindful of how your thermostat settings affect energy costs and consumption.
In the summer, setting your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home helps maintain comfort without overloading your AC. During the winter, 68 degrees is the ideal temperature when indoors. And, adjusting your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees while you’re away or asleep boosts energy efficiency.
These small shifts can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills.
The Ideal Temperature for Comfort and Energy Savings
Finding the right balance between comfort and cost is key when deciding what temperature to set the air conditioner to in the summer.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s ideal temperature settings (78 degrees in summer and 68 degrees in winter) provide a comfortable indoor climate while minimizing the strain on your HVAC system.
Over time, these simple changes reduce your energy consumption and can lower your monthly utility bills, making your home more sustainable and cost-effective throughout the year.
How Humidity Affects Your AC Temperature Setting
Humidity levels significantly influence how warm or cool your home feels, especially in the summer.
When humidity is high, indoor air feels warmer than it actually is, often leading homeowners to unnecessarily lower the thermostat. This not only increases energy use but also causes your AC to work harder than needed.
Instead of lowering the temperature drastically, consider using a dehumidifier or running your AC at a consistent setting, like 78 degrees. This approach improves comfort, maintains efficiency, and helps avoid excessive energy bills and system wear.
Should You Keep Your Thermostat at a Steady Setting All Day?
As a homeowner, you have many options for managing the temperature in your home. There’s a lot of debate on the best approach, especially regarding whether to keep your thermostat on a steady setting or conduct manual adjustments.
Manual thermostat adjustments may decrease wasted energy consumption and save you money on energy bills, as you adjust temperatures based on whether you’re home or asleep. This can lead to cost savings in the long run. On the other hand, maintaining a consistent temperature all day puts less pressure on your HVAC system. With a steady temperature, it does not have to work as hard to maintain it, reducing wear and tear and extending its lifespan.
You have options when it comes to finding the right balance between comfort and cost, and the right approach depends on your specific priorities and home needs.
Temperature Preferences Can Shift Throughout the Day
Our comfort requirements change with our daily routine, depending on the time of day, activity levels, and outdoor temperatures. For instance, homeowners may prefer cooler settings during peak afternoon heat and slightly warmer temperatures in the evenings. Adjusting your thermostat throughout the day can help optimize your comfort and energy efficiency by avoiding wasted energy where it’s not needed. This will save you money on energy costs in the long run.
Best AC Temperature Settings When No One’s Home
Leaving your air conditioner running at the same temperature when no one is home can lead to unnecessary energy use and higher bills. Increasing the thermostat by several degrees while your home is empty allows your system to work less, which can improve overall efficiency.
For example, setting the temperature to the low-to-mid 80s during the day and returning it to your preferred comfort level before you get home can help reduce strain on your AC. This method is especially effective during the hot summers that are common in Las Vegas and surrounding communities.
The Importance of Regular AC Maintenance for Temperature Control
Regular AC maintenance is essential for keeping your system running smoothly and maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. When components like filters and coils are clean and in good condition, your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home. This not only supports better temperature control but also lowers energy usage.
In warm climates like Las Vegas, where AC use is frequent, preventative maintenance helps reduce the risk of breakdowns and keeps your system performing efficiently all season long.
Easy Ways to Lower Energy Use Without Sacrificing Comfort
Contrary to common concern, lowering energy use and costs while meeting your comfort needs is possible. It starts with keeping your thermostat at or within the recommended setting of 78 degrees in the summer. However, if this is outside of your comfort limits, or you’re looking to enhance energy savings, here are a few simple ways to lower energy use without sacrificing comfort:
- Use windows to cool your home
- Operate the thermostat and AC unit efficiently
- Use ceiling fans
- Use a dehumidifier
- Improve ventilation
- Replace your lighting
Make Sure Your AC is Ready for All Seasons with Our Professional AC Services
Take the step towards enhanced comfort and energy efficiency this summer with professional AC services from BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair.
Our team has a decade of experience providing Las Vegas residents reliable heating and cooling services. Our NATE-Certified technicians deliver top-tier service and innovative AC solutions to help you obtain the perfect balance of comfort and cost.
Other Ways to Stay Cool Without Overusing Your AC
The overbearing desert summer heat can make us desperate and highly reliant on our AC systems. While careful strategies for AC use are helpful, we still have to be careful not to overuse and exhaust our systems; otherwise, they may break down on us for good.
So, here are a few ways to let some heat off your AC system and remain cool in the heat of summer:
- Open windows at night
- Close window blinds or coverings
- Insulate or air-seal your home
- Avoid using large appliances during peak hot temperatures (i.e., mid-afternoon)
- Install exterior window shades
- Use fans generously
- Use exhaust fans
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise
Call Us for Expert AC Repair, Installation, and Maintenance Services
During summer, you don’t need to choose between comfort and cost; maintaining the right AC settings can give you both.
With the help of BEST Air Conditioning Plumbing Repair, you can ensure your system runs at peak efficiency all summer. Whether you need AC repair, AC replacement, or routine maintenance, our experienced technicians are here to help keep your home comfortable and your energy bills under control. Contact Our BEST Specialists Today.
