Anyone who has lived through a long, hot Austin summer understands how challenging it is to balance home comfort and cost savings when running the AC. So what is the best AC temperature for summer? Precision Heating & Air has professional recommendations and tips to help you maximize home climate control to save money without sacrificing comfort.
Best AC Temperature for a Low Electricity Bill
To escape Texas summertime heat, you want your home to be cool and comfortable. But being mindful of energy usage is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises when the electricity bill is due. The best AC temperature for energy savings is between 72 and 78 degrees. The longer you keep the thermostat setting at 78, the lower your energy bill will be.
Here are some professional recommendations regarding how to set your thermostat throughout the day and night to meet your home comfort and energy savings goals:
Daytime setting: 78 degrees
If your household is empty during the day due to work and school, this is an excellent time to adjust the setting to the higher temperature range. A setting of 78 degrees during the day is enough to keep your home from getting too stuffy while giving the system a break from nonstop running.
Evening setting: 72-74 degrees
When the family gets home in the evening, you’ll want the environment to be cool and welcoming. Setting the thermostat between 72 and 74 degrees will ensure you get the indoor cool-down you desire, especially if you spend time preparing hot meals in the kitchen.
Overnight setting: 72-78 degrees
Do you sleep better in a cooler room? If so, 72 degrees may be the appropriate nighttime setting. But if your family can still get a good night’s sleep in a slightly warmer environment, setting the AC closer to 78 degrees will prevent overly steamy nighttime sleeping while conserving energy.
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Best AC Temperature to Prevent Mold
With the high humidity levels in Texas, some homeowners are concerned about mold growth. If that’s you, keep in mind that the best AC temperature to prevent mold is 68-72 degrees However, dipping below 72 degrees will cause your AC to run longer, and you may not like the result on your energy bill. Setting the temperature closer to 72 can help you keep mold at bay without too much impact on the cost.