As summer temperatures rise, many homeowners rely heavily on their air conditioning to stay cool and comfortable. But with that comfort comes higher energy usage — and potentially higher bills. Knowing the best thermostat settings for summer can help you maintain a comfortable home environment while also saving energy and prolonging the life of your AC system.
Why Thermostat Settings Matter
Your thermostat is the command center for your HVAC system. Setting it strategically can keep your home cool without overworking your AC. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re at home during the day in the summer. This temperature strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. If you’re away from home, consider raising the temperature by 7–10 degrees to save even more energy.
Factors to Consider When Setting Your Thermostat
Not all homes or families are the same, so you should adjust based on your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider:
- Home occupancy: If you’re gone during the day, take advantage of a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust temps accordingly.
- Humidity: Higher humidity can make your home feel warmer. A dehumidifier or AC with humidity control can make a big difference.
- Personal comfort: Some people simply feel cooler or warmer than others. Try experimenting within the 75°F–80°F range to find your sweet spot.
- Sleeping temperature: People often sleep better in cooler environments. Consider dropping the temperature a few degrees at night for better sleep.
Energy-Saving Tips
- Use fans: Ceiling and floor fans help circulate air and make it feel cooler, allowing you to set the thermostat a bit higher.
- Keep blinds closed: Direct sunlight can quickly heat up a room. Keep blinds and curtains closed during peak daylight hours.
- Seal leaks: Make sure windows and doors are properly sealed so cool air doesn’t escape.
When to Call for Help
While setting the thermostat properly helps, it won’t solve every cooling issue. If your home isn’t cooling effectively or your AC seems to be running constantly without results, there could be a bigger issue at play. That’s where Solution Based Plumbing Heating and Cooling (SBPHA/C) comes in.
Whether you need a quick repair, a full system replacement, or expert advice on getting the most from your HVAC system, we’re just a phone call away. Our team offers dependable, high-quality service to ensure your summer is as cool and comfortable as possible.
Stay Cool, Save Money
Finding the best thermostat settings for summer is a smart way to keep your home comfortable and efficient. Here’s to staying cool and saving energy this season. Happy summer from all of us at SBPHA/C!