As summer heats up, one of the most common questions homeowners face is what temperature to set the air conditioner in summer to maintain comfort without skyrocketing energy bills. Balancing comfort with energy efficiency can help you enjoy your summer indoors without undue stress on your budget.
Optimal Settings for Summer Comfort
The temperature to set AC in summer is typically recommended at 78 °F when you’re at home and active. This setting is a balance between energy efficiency and comfort, allowing your cooling system to work effectively without overexertion. At night, or when your home is unoccupied, increasing the thermostat to 85 °F can significantly reduce your energy consumption, potentially saving 5–15% on your cooling costs.
For optimal sleep, cooler temperatures, specifically between 60 and 67 °F, make for the best sleeping conditions during the warmer months. This cooler setting helps your body maintain its natural nighttime temperature drop, which encourages good sleep quality.
Strategies to Enhance Indoor Comfort
Even if your thermostat is set higher than your ideal temperature, there are ways to make your living space feel cooler without adjusting the temperature downward, which can lead to increased energy costs.
Improve Air Circulation With Fans
Utilizing ceiling fans can enhance the feeling of coolness in your home. Fans circulate air and create a breeze that makes the environment feel cooler than it actually is. Remember to turn off fans when leaving a room, as they cool people by moving air around, not the room itself.
Maximize Your Home’s Insulation
Ensuring your windows are well-insulated plays a dual role: it keeps hot air out during the summer and cold air out during the winter. Consider using blackout curtains or shades to block intense sunlight, which naturally heats your home.
Smart Thermostat Use
A programmable thermostat can adjust the temperature automatically based on your daily schedule. Set it to increase the temperature when you’re away and to cool down before you return, ensuring comfort while optimizing energy use.
Why Setting the Right Temperature Matters
The right temperature to set the air conditioner in summer is more than a matter of personal comfort—it’s about efficiency and sustainability. By optimizing your AC settings, you’re contributing to lower energy consumption, which not only reduces your utility bills but also minimizes your environmental impact.
If you’re looking for professional advice on how to better manage your HVAC in DuPage County, don’t hesitate to reach out to Pure Climate Heating and Cooling. Our team of NATE-certified HVAC technicians is ready to help you achieve the best in home comfort and efficiency.