What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner in Summer

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Hey, you’re in Cleveland, it’s summer, and the AC’s blasting, but what temperature should you set it at? If you don’t want to fry or freeze while also keeping your energy bills low, I got the answers you need. Let’s dive into the perfect AC temperature settings for summer, how to save on cooling costs, and some tips to make your home as comfy as possible without draining your wallet. And of course, shout out to HVAC Cleveland Pros—your go-to guys for keeping that AC running smooth.

Best Temperature Setting for Comfort and Efficiency

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re at home during the summer. This temperature keeps the place comfortable without jacking up the energy bill. If you’re one of those people who likes it cooler, try 72°F to 75°F, but be ready to see a bit more on your electric bill. Now, if you’re out of the house during the day, crank it up to 85°F—you’re not home anyway, right? When you return, drop it back down to your comfort zone.

Now, if you’re running around thinking “I gotta keep the house cool 24/7,” hold up. You’re better off bumping the thermostat up by a few degrees during the day, especially when no one’s home. If you’ve got a smart thermostat, even better! Set a schedule so the AC kicks in before you come home. Your wallet will thank you later.

Humidity and Perceived Temperature

Here’s something not everyone talks about—humidity. High humidity makes it feel hotter, even if the thermostat is set at 75°F. If you live somewhere with high humidity like Cleveland, consider using a dehumidifier to help your AC run more efficiently. Lower humidity levels make the air feel cooler, meaning you won’t need to set the thermostat so low to feel comfy.

Thermostat Setting (°F) Perceived Temperature at 50% Humidity Perceived Temperature at 70% Humidity
72°F 70°F 73°F
75°F 75°F 77°F
78°F 78°F 80°F

What About Night Time?

At night, things get interesting. The National Sleep Foundation says the ideal temperature for sleeping is between 60°F and 67°F. But you don’t need to crank your AC down that low. A happy medium might be around 72°F to 74°F, especially if you use a ceiling fan to keep the air moving. Fans help you feel cooler without needing to freeze your room.

If you want to save a bit, bump the thermostat up a few degrees at night. You’re under the covers, and the house is naturally cooler because the sun’s down. Just make sure you’re not too warm to get a good night’s sleep.

Other Ways to Keep Cool and Save

We all know that AC maintenance is key. If you’re cranking up the AC but it’s not blowing as cold as it should, there might be something wrong. Call HVAC Cleveland Pros to check it out. A well-maintained unit runs smoother and saves you from those sweaty, sleepless nights.

Here’s a few quick tips to stay cool without overworking your air conditioner:

  • Close the blinds: Sunlight heats up your home fast. Keep your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day.
  • Use ceiling fans: Ceiling fans help circulate air, so your space feels cooler without dropping the temperature too much.
  • Keep the doors and windows sealed: Leaks let warm air in and cool air out. Proper insulation is key to maintaining a steady indoor temperature.
  • Turn off appliances that generate heat: Ovens, stoves, and dryers can make your home hotter. Save that cooking for the evening or grill outside.

FAQ’s

What’s the best temperature to set my AC when I’m not home?

You don’t need to cool an empty house. Raise the thermostat to around 85°F while you’re out. It’s still cool enough to prevent humidity build-up but won’t waste energy. When you’re heading back home, lower it to your desired setting. A smart thermostat will make this whole process automatic.

Should I set my AC lower to cool the house faster?

Nope! Cranking the AC down to 60°F won’t cool your house any faster. Your system will just work harder for longer, which burns more energy and shortens its lifespan. Instead, aim for your target temperature and be patient. Use a programmable thermostat to get ahead of the heat.

What’s the best temperature for sleeping in the summer?

The ideal sleep temperature is around 65°F but don’t freeze yourself out! If 65°F feels like the arctic, try around 72°F with a fan. You’ll sleep comfortably without overworking your AC. Fans help the air circulate, making it feel cooler than it is.

How can I lower my AC costs without sacrificing comfort?

First off, keep that AC unit well-maintained. Dirty filters and clogged coils reduce efficiency. Also, set your thermostat higher when you’re not home, and use ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect. Finally, make sure your home is insulated and the windows are sealed tight to keep the cool air inside. For more tips, check out this article on how to maintain your HVAC system.

Conclusion

Finding the right temperature to set your air conditioner in the summer can be tricky. But if you aim for 78°F when you’re home, 85°F when you’re out, and adjust at night based on your comfort, you’ll keep cool without sending your energy bill through the roof. Remember, humidity plays a huge role in how comfortable you feel. A dehumidifier can help make 78°F feel just right. And if you’ve got an older system or need a tune-up, give HVAC Cleveland Pros a call. They’ll help keep your AC running smoothly so you can enjoy the summer without sweating over your utility bills.

For more info on keeping your home cool and energy-efficient, check out these useful tips on affordable HVAC repair costs and how to reset your air conditioner.

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