Have you ever wondered what temperature should I set my air conditioner in summer? During hot summer days, you may often wonder what AC temperature setting to use to keep your house comfortable but your energy bills down. The ideal AC temperature setting depends on what temperature you feel the most comfortable in. Some may prefer very low temperatures, while others may not. However, there are some basic guidelines to follow to help you save on AC bills when the thermostat outside goes up.
Read on to learn more about what the ideal AC temperature setting is for summer or contact our heating and cooling experts at Galmiche & Sons to learn more about keeping your AC running efficiently.
So, What Temperature Should You Set Your Air Conditioner In Summer?
If you find yourself asking, what temperature should I set my air conditioner in summer? There are some simple guidelines. For example, the US Dept. of Energy recommends setting your air conditioner at 78℉ when you are home during the day. It also recommends that you should increase the temperature to 82℉ when you are sleeping at night or when you are not home. According to the US Energy Information Administration, air conditioning makes up 12% of the energy bills in US homes. So keeping your AC temperature settings between these numbers should help keep bills in check.
However, 78℉ or 82℉ may seem a little warm for many. So, what temperature should I set my air conditioner in summer to remain cool and reduce my energy bills? Keep in mind that every little bit helps. You can save up to 10% on your energy bills by turning up your air conditioner by 7℉ to 10℉ from your normal temperature setting for at least 8 hours a day.
Tips on Choosing the Right AC Temperature Setting to Remain Cool and Comfortable in Summer
You can also follow these tips to keep cool while still keeping your AC at an ideal setting:
- Increase the temperature setting when not at home: When no one is home, increase the temperature setting to lower your energy bills. Invest in a smart thermostat so that you can adjust the temperature through your smartphone. A smart thermostat allows you to set the temperature and time when you want your home to cool down. According to the US Dept. of Energy, the smaller the difference between your indoor and outdoor temperature, the lower your energy bills will be.
- Replace your outdated AC unit: Modern air conditioners come with advanced features, making your home more efficient. Replacing your outdated AC unit with a modern AC system can help you significantly save on your energy bills. Among the latest features are 2-stage cooling capabilities and variable fan speed that lets your home stay cooler for longer.
- Use fans: Using ceiling or box fans with your air conditioning system can help your house stay cool and lower your utility bills. The wind chill effect that fans create can help your house stay cooler even in higher temperatures.
- Replace the air filters: Air filters must be cleaned and replaced regularly to ensure that your air conditioning system runs efficiently. If they are clogged by dust and debris, your air conditioning system needs to work harder, which eventually results in higher energy bills.
- Plug all leaks: If cold air from your air conditioning system is leaking out, it will take longer for your AC unit to cool down the house. Ensure that there are no gaps in your doors and windows to prevent the cold air from leaking out. Keeping the cold air in will significantly lower your energy bills.
Galmiche & Sons: Your Trusted HVAC Expert
If you have been wondering what temperature should I set my air conditioner in summer, the above tips should help. If you need help with your air conditioning system or want to learn more about how regular service can keep your system running more efficiently, Galmiche & Sons are experts in the HVAC industry, operating since 1950. For all your AC installation, repair, and maintenance needs, contact our heating and air conditioning experts today.
