Blog Layout

What Temperature Should I Set My Air Conditioner in Summer?

InterCounty Supply • May 04, 2021

What temperature should you set your air conditioning to?

Air conditioning is something millions of us depend on every single year. When the sun is shining and the temperature is hot, our AC unit gives us the relief we need. However, just like all technology out there, these systems can experience problems at some point. Whether it’s a faulty thermostat or damaged wire, fixing these issues right away is highly encouraged.

If your air conditioner is working effectively, you can experience cool comfort all summer long. However, you still may have one important question floating around your head: “What temperature should I set my air conditioner in summer?”

In this post, we’ll answer that question by talking about a few different factors you should consider. We’ll discuss the costs associated with your AC unit, including what happens when you set the indoor temperature too low. We’ll then offer some tips on how to find your desired comfort level during those scorching summer months.

Is 72 a good temperature for air conditioning?

If you ask the average homeowner what they set their thermostat to, many of them will say 72 degrees. However, according to the Department of Energy, that number is far too high. The Department of Energy recommends setting your home thermostat to 78 degrees during the summer months. Think this is too high for your desired comfort level? Luckily, there are a few ways you can raise the indoor temp yet still remain comfortable.

Tips for Raising Temp While Staying Comfy

While increasing the temperature on your thermostat brings many advantages, your comfort doesn’t need to be at risk. Here are some tips on how to do this effectively:

Raise it up when you’re gone

You can’t be uncomfortable in your home if you’re not there. That said, to reap the benefits of a high indoor temperature, turn up your thermostat when your home is vacant. While you can accomplish this with any thermostat, a programmable model makes the process extremely simple. In fact, some thermostats allow you to make adjustments from your smartphone.

Not sure what temp to choose? As a general rule of thumb, the closer the indoor temp is to the outdoor temp, the better. By doing this, it can make your air conditioner work more effectively. It could even result in saving hundreds on your energy bills.

Upgrade your air conditioner

If you’re due for a brand new AC unit, this can help your home stay efficient. The new air conditioners of today are built with tons of incredible features and capabilities, making it easier than ever to save on your energy bills. More specifically, a new air conditioner can allow you to raise the indoor temperature in your home, allowing you to take advantage of the many benefits. This is because many of these AC units feature a variable-speed fan and 2-stage cooling capabilities. Even if your temperature is set high, these features help you stay cooler for longer.

Considering the costs

The truth of the matter is, many people set their thermostats well below 78 degrees. However, while this can lead to higher comfort levels during the summer, the costs can really add up—and I don’t mean just for your energy bills. If you consistently keep your thermostat low, this can cause your air conditioner to work harder, which can shorten its life. If your AC unit continues to work overtime, you’ll be replacing it sooner than you expected. As new cooling systems can cost thousands and thousands of dollars, this could be a hefty investment. By raising your indoor temperature, even by just a degree or two, you can experience a long-lasting system and much smaller utility bills.

Fans can be your best friend

Does your family constantly use fans in the house? If not, you’re missing out on a massive energy-saving opportunity. Whether you have a box fan or ceiling fan, these can go a long way for staying comfortable during the summer months. Even if the indoor temperature is high, ceiling fans can make it feel much cooler. However, you’ll want to utilize fans at the right time and in the right location. For instance, as the nighttime temps during the summer are relatively cool, you’ll want to let in as much of that air as possible. While you should open windows, many experts encourage placing box fans in your window to let in even more cool air. This can lead to using your AC unit less, not to mention letting in that fresh, cool natural breeze.

Making steady improvements

While some homeowners can easily maintain an indoor temperature of 78 degrees, others can’t go above 70. If your family loves a freezing home, making improvements over time may be the best approach. For example, you could try raising your thermostat by just one degree every week during the summer months. This incremental change can help your body get used to the indoor temperature without shocking your system from a drastic adjustment.

After reading this post, you should now be able to answer: “Is 72 a good temperature for air conditioning?” By doing your best to increase your home temperature, you’ll not only save money—you’ll also be doing good for the environment.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Homeowner Looking For Reliable Heating, Cooling Or Plumbing Supplies?

Our dedicated specialists are standing by to help.

914-939-4350

Most homeowners in need of new heating or cooling equipment will do an internet search to get information. Such a search will typically yield two results: what to buy or where to buy but not why to buy. At InterCounty Supply, as a wholesale supply house, we present all the options for what to buy and why it would be the best choice for YOUR situation. After all the options are presented a homeowner can decide for themselves what they need. ICS then has a licensed, factory trained contractor who SPECIALIZES in the equipment you need come to your home to provide the complete installation cost for the equipment you need. ICS will also handle all the paperwork for any rebates that are applicable.

Have questions, give us a call 914-939-4350 or fill out the form and one of our specialists will be in touch shortly.

Get A Free - No Obligation Quote

Our Specialist are

standing by to help