What Is the Ideal Temperature for Home AC in the Summer?

During hot and humid summers, homeowners face the challenge of keeping their homes cool without paying exorbitant energy bills. A common question is what the ideal temperature for a home’s air conditioner (AC) should be. Although no single number fits all homes, the US Department of Energy recommends a temperature of 78°F for the summer months.

Pacific Heating & Sheet Metal is your go-to HVAC company providing reliable and detailed AC repairs in San Luis Obispo, CA, and the surrounding areas. We work hard to ensure that your cooling unit is ready to beat the summer heat for you. In this blog, we will share tips for determining the best temperature to balance comfort and energy savings.

Consider The Outside Temperature

To save energy and reduce cooling costs, homeowners should adjust their AC temperature based on the outside temperature. The smaller the difference between the outdoor and indoor temperatures, the less energy the HVAC system uses, leading to a lower electricity bill. Homeowners can program their thermostats to raise the temperature during the day when no one is at home or at night when everyone is asleep.

Maintain Healthy Humidity Levels

Humidity can be problematic in humid climates, leading to mold, mildew, peeling paint, and rotting wood. Running an AC can help lower humidity levels. Ideally, indoor humidity levels should be between 30-50%. Homeowners can monitor their home’s humidity levels with a hygrometer or a humidistat if their AC has one. The general rule is to set the thermostat as high as possible while ensuring healthy humidity levels.

Determine Your Ideal Comfort Level

While 78°F is a comfortable temperature for many people, some may feel too hot, especially during extreme heat. Homeowners can gradually adjust their thermostat, one degree at a time until they find their ideal comfort level. They can adjust their thermostat based on the time of day, whether at home or away, and when they are asleep.

Additional Energy-Saving Tips

In addition to adjusting your thermostat, scheduling annual maintenance and prompt air conditioning repairs in San Luis Obispo, CA, with Pacific Heating & Sheet Metal, can help keep indoors comfortable while reducing your energy bill. Here are some additional steps you can take to keep your AC running efficiently:

  • Use Fans: Ceiling fans and portable fans can help circulate cool air throughout your home, making it feel more relaxed without having to lower the temperature on your thermostat. Plus, fans use far less energy than your air conditioning unit.

  • Close Curtains And Blinds: Sunlight coming through your windows can increase the temperature in your home. By closing curtains and blinds during the hottest part of the day, you can block out the sun’s rays and keep your home cooler.

  • Insulate Your Home: Proper insulation can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Ensure insulating your attic, walls, and floors prevent cool air from escaping.

  • Seal Air Leaks: Air leaks, mostly around windows and doors, can let cool and hot air escape. Use weatherstripping and caulking to seal gaps or cracks and prevent air leaks.

Implementing energy-saving practices in your home can not only save you money on your monthly utility bills but also help reduce your carbon footprint. Whether upgrading to a more energy-efficient HVAC system or making minor changes to your daily routine, every effort counts. At Pacific Heating & Sheet Metal, we are committed to providing our customers in San Luis Obispo, CA, with top-quality AC repair services and helping them achieve optimal energy efficiency.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you create a more comfortable and sustainable living space​

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