What Temperature Should I Have My AC Set To?
Recently, we got a call from a distraught homeowner. She’d gotten one of those letters from her electric company in the mail that compared her energy use to her neighbors — and it was triple the average for the neighborhood, as was her utility bill.
It didn’t take long for us to figure out the likely culprit. When we asked her what her temperature units were set to, she offhandedly replied, “Oh, 65–70 degrees depending on how hot it is outside.”
ENERGY STAR® and most air conditioner manufacturers and HVAC professionals recommend setting your AC to 78 degrees in the summer during the day and 82 degrees while sleeping.
If this sounds more like the ideal temperature for tanning than for cooling, stay with us. There are good reasons behind this recommendation.
Why Keeping Your AC Temperature Between 78 & 82 Degrees Is Best
1. This is the “sweet spot” between staying fairly comfortable and not shocking your wallet.
Although 78 degrees may sound high, when it’s 104 outside, 78 will feel great. And you can further cool your home by running ceiling fans and ensuring your home is adequately insulated. This safe zone is also the best way to prevent any utility bill sticker shock come June through August and could save you hundreds in electricity per year.
2. You can adjust to warmer temperatures over time.
It’s simple. If you’re accustomed to a lower setting, increase by one degree every couple of days until you hit 78. This will give your body time to adjust.
3. This temperature range won’t overwork your HVAC system, meaning fewer repairs for you.
Most people expect miracles out of their ACs. They’ll run them 24/7, never change the filter, set them to 58 degrees, let ice build up around the compressor, and ignore leaks until there’s a puddle next to the bookcase. This sort of HVAC neglect can take years off your system’s lifespan.
Keeping your AC at a reasonable temperature is one of the best ways to prolong its service life and save on repair and replacement costs.
Contact Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air To Speak With an Expert
The cooling technicians at Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air are always ready to talk you through all your HVAC questions. We’ll help you determine a plan to stay cool without spending a fortune all summer.
Call or contact us online today to get the conversation started for free.