A-1 Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric has been providing affordable heating, cooling, electrical, and indoor air quality services to residential and commercial customers since 1956. As the summer heat intensifies, one of the most common questions we receive from our clients is, “What temperature should I set my thermostat in the summer?” we’ll answer this question by exploring the ideal thermostat settings, how they impact comfort and energy costs, and what steps you can take to maximize efficiency while staying cool.
Ideal Thermostat Setting for Summer Comfort and Savings
Finding the right thermostat setting for summer is a balancing act between comfort and saving money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the recommended thermostat setting for summer is 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re home and active. This is considered the ideal thermostat temperature because it keeps your home comfortable while reducing cooling costs.
However, comfort is subjective, and many of us might prefer a bit more cool air, especially on particularly hot days. While 78 degrees is a good starting point, some might find that way too hot and wonder why they would even bother having AC if it’s going to be 78 degrees inside their home. In that case, feel free to adjust the temperature to fit your needs. Keep in mind, however, that for every degree you lower your thermostat in the summer, you increase your energy bill by about 3%.
When you’re away from home for short periods of time, it’s ideal to set your thermostat to about 7-10 degrees higher than normal. This strategy reduces the workload on your air conditioning system, helping you save energy while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature for when you return.
How Thermostat Settings Affect Energy Costs
The temperature at which you set your thermostat directly impacts your energy costs. During the summer months, your air conditioner works overtime to combat the rising outdoor temperatures. Lowering your thermostat to cool your home more quickly doesn’t actually speed up the cooling process; instead, it forces your air conditioner to work longer and harder, leading to higher energy bills.
By choosing energy-efficient air conditioning strategies — like using programmable thermostats or smart thermostats — you can automate your thermostat settings based on your schedule. These devices allow you to adjust the indoor temperature when you’re away from home or asleep, reducing unnecessary energy consumption and ultimately lowering your electricity bill. Plus, some smart thermostats learn your patterns and can suggest adjustments to save energy and further lower your energy bills.
Maximize Air Conditioning Efficiency with Temperature Settings
Your air conditioning system works best when paired with an energy-saving strategy. Adjusting your thermostat wisely can significantly reduce cooling costs without sacrificing comfort. While 78 degrees is the recommended thermostat setting for summer, you can further enhance energy efficiency by incorporating additional cooling tactics.
For example, ceiling fans allow you to keep the thermostat at a slightly higher temperature, as the airflow helps your body feel cooler. Fans don’t actually lower the temperature of the room, but they improve air circulation and make the air feel cooler against your skin, allowing you to stay comfortable at a higher thermostat setting.
Body Temperature, Comfort, and Air Conditioning
Understanding how body temperature interacts with indoor temperature is key to maintaining a comfortable environment. As your body temperature drops during sleep, you might not need as much cooling power overnight. This is where a programmable thermostat becomes valuable, as you can set your thermostat to adjust automatically during the night to accommodate these changes in body temperature. This can help you save energy while still providing comfort.
During the day, it’s essential to take into account factors like direct sunlight. Sunlight streaming through windows can cause your indoor temperature to rise rapidly. Using blinds, shades, or energy-efficient window treatments can help block out the sun’s heat, keeping your home cooler without overworking your air conditioning system. This helps to further reduce energy costs.
Zoning Systems for Enhanced Comfort
For homes with multiple rooms or levels, using a zoning system can improve comfort and efficiency. Zoning systems allow you to set different temperature settings for various areas of your home, meaning you can cool only the rooms you use the most. This method helps to save energy, as your air conditioning unit won’t need to cool unoccupied spaces.
Set Your Thermostat to Save Energy and Stay Comfortable
In the summer, the best thermostat setting for summer depends on your comfort needs and your desire to reduce energy costs. You can significantly lower your electricity bill by setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you’re home, using ceiling fans for additional comfort, and adjusting your thermostat when you’re away. Adding a programmable thermostat or smart thermostat to your home allows for even more precise control over your temperature settings and maximizes energy savings.
Contact Us for Thermostat and Air Conditioning Services in Meridian, ID
At A-1 Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric, we help homeowners and businesses in Meridian, ID, and nearby areas stay comfortable during the summer months while keeping energy bills manageable. For more information on thermostat settings, energy-efficient cooling, or our cooling services, contact us today! Our team of experts is ready to assist you with all your air conditioning needs.