Although spending time outdoors during the summer is fun and exciting, there’s nothing better than relaxing in an air-conditioned home. Sometimes, all we feel like doing is sitting back to enjoy the cool air on a sweltering day. But what is a good AC temperature for summer? Which thermostat setting will allow you to stay comfortable while lowering your energy costs?
While you may be tempted to place your thermostat on the lowest setting, this isn’t always the most cost-efficient solution — nor is it usually the most comfortable, for that matter. Before you start adjusting your thermostat, let’s go over the best AC setting for summer regarding energy savings, sleeping, and the safety of your pets.
The Best AC Temperature for Energy Savings
As a homeowner, you probably look for ways to lower your energy bills however you can. From using a programmable thermostat to turning the lights off when you leave a room, it’s always a great feeling to save energy and lower cooling costs in the process.
So, what is a good AC temperature for summer that will allow you to reap the most energy savings? According to many, the ideal temperature is 78 degrees. HVAC technicians and professional organizations, including the Department of Energy, recommend this air conditioner setting.
Although it may seem a little high, 78 degrees is the best AC setting for summer because it considers your comfort level and energy efficiency needs. If you’re worried about keeping cool with this setting, running the ceiling fans throughout your home can help create a “wind chill effect.” Although fans can’t lower your home’s temperature, they can be used to make a space feel cooler than it actually is.
Finding the Ideal AC Thermostat Settings for Sleep
If you want to run your air conditioner as energy-efficiently as possible, it’s recommended that you set your thermostat to 82 degrees while sleeping. However, these higher temperatures might not be ideal for you; after all, it’s believed that anything from 60 to 72 degrees is usually the most comfortable temperature range when sleeping.
Finding the best AC setting for summer can be difficult, especially if you’re struggling to balance comfort and energy efficiency. One potential solution is to upgrade to a high-efficiency AC unit. Some of these air conditioners have a “sleep mode,” which helps you stay comfortable while still achieving high energy savings. Our Denver air conditioner installation team knows that it’s important to have a home that’s comfortable and energy-efficient. You can contact us to learn more about energy-efficient AC options.
Which AC Temperature Settings Are Safest for Pets?
When trying to find the best AC setting for summer, it’s important to consider your pets. Although you may want to shut off your air conditioner when you’re out shopping or at work for the sake of your electricity bill, it’s crucial to remember that animals usually have a higher body temperature than humans. As a result, it’s easier for your pets to overheat due to a lack of cool air.
If you have a dog at home, you’ll want to set your indoor temperature to anything between 69 and 78 degrees. The ideal temperature setting for cats is usually a bit higher but shouldn’t exceed 96 degrees. It’s also worth noting that these are general rules of thumb; every individual pet and breed will have different needs, so it’s best to seek the advice of a professional regarding your pet’s indoor temperature requirements.
Factors That Impact Ideal Thermostat Settings for Summer
When setting your thermostat for the summer months, there are several factors you should take into consideration. Understanding these factors can help you optimize the comfort of your home while managing energy efficiency. From the type of AC unit you have to the amount of direct sunlight your home receives, each element plays a crucial role in determining the most effective thermostat temperatures.
Below are key factors to consider when configuring your summer thermostat settings:
- Type of AC Unit: The efficiency and capability of your air conditioning system, whether it’s a traditional AC or a heat pump, significantly affect how low you can set your thermostat without overburdening the system.
- Direct Sunlight: Homes that receive significant direct sunlight throughout the day may need lower thermostat settings to counteract the extra heat, requiring the AC to work harder to maintain a normal temperature.
- Insulation Quality: Better insulated homes can maintain cool temperatures longer, allowing for higher thermostat settings that won’t compromise comfort or skyrocket energy bills.
- Humidity Levels: High humidity can make indoor air feel warmer than it actually is, so recommended thermostat settings may need to be lower to account for the increased moisture in the air.
- Personal Comfort Preferences: Ultimately, your comfort preferences will guide your thermostat settings. What feels too warm for one person might be comfortable for another, so adjust your thermostat to find your personal comfort zone while keeping energy efficiency in mind.
Stay Comfortable This Summer With Our Air Conditioner Services
What is a good AC temperature for summer? The answer to this question isn’t as simple as it may seem. There are many factors that you’ll need to consider in your quest to stay cool, such as the importance of energy efficiency and the needs of your pets.
Smart Thermostats
Is your main concern energy efficiency? If so, there are several changes you can make to your home. First, you might want to consider the benefits of smart thermostats. These programmable thermostats can be controlled from an app on your phone, making it easy to adjust your home’s temperature even when you’re at work or running errands.
Smart thermostats not only offer convenience but also enhance the overall efficiency of your cooling and heating system. By allowing you to set the thermostat temperature remotely, they maintain the best temperature settings for comfort without wasting energy. These devices can learn your schedule and temperature preferences, automatically adjusting to reduce heating and cooling costs throughout the year.
Furthermore, during extreme temperatures in summer and winter, smart thermostats adjust the indoor climate accordingly, ensuring your home remains comfortable while optimizing energy use. This smart technology plays a pivotal role in managing household energy consumption, ultimately contributing to substantial savings on utility bills.
Air Conditioner Maintenance
Next, you’ll want to ensure that your air conditioner is well-cared for. Scheduling regular AC maintenance services will help your system run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Some homeowners might consider maintenance to be an unnecessary expense. However, in the end, maintenance can be what saves you money in the long run, as you’ll be able to prevent frequent air conditioner repairs and premature replacement.
Contact Us for AC Services in Denver, CO
Don’t let a malfunctioning air conditioner get in the way of your comfort this summer. If you’ve been neglecting maintenance or need help keeping your AC running smoothly, we’ll provide you with a dependable solution. Contact Squeak’s Plumbing, Heating & Air to schedule an air conditioning repair in Golden, CO, today!
