What Temperature to set Air Conditioner to in Summer

What Temperature Should You Set Your Air Conditioner to in SummerDuring the scorching summers in Tempe, Arizona, keeping your home cool while managing energy bills can be a challenge. Many homeowners wonder, “What temperature should I set my air conditioner to in summer?” At HVAC Tempe Pros, we provide expert advice on AC settings, energy efficiency, and comfort, along with professional AC repair and maintenance services.
Why the Right AC Temperature MattersSetting your AC too low can lead to:
  • Higher energy bills due to excessive power usage
  • Increased wear and tear on the system, reducing lifespan
  • Uneven cooling, with some rooms colder than others
Conversely, setting the temperature too high can:
  • Make your home uncomfortable
  • Reduce indoor air quality if humidity is not properly controlled
Finding the optimal balance ensures comfort, efficiency, and cost savings.
Recommended Summer AC TemperatureExperts, including the U.S. Department of Energy, recommend:
  • 78°F (25–26°C) when you are home – balances comfort and energy efficiency
  • 82–85°F (28–29°C) when you are away – reduces energy consumption without affecting comfort upon return
  • Use programmable or smart thermostats to adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule
By following these guidelines, you can save 10–15% on cooling costs annually while keeping your home comfortable.
Tips for Maintaining Comfort at Higher TemperaturesEven if your thermostat is set at 78°F, you can enhance comfort with these strategies:
1. Use Fans for Air CirculationCeiling fans and portable fans help circulate cool air, making rooms feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
2. Close Blinds and CurtainsBlocking direct sunlight reduces heat gain and lightens the load on your AC.
3. Keep Doors ClosedMinimizing airflow to unused rooms improves efficiency and comfort in occupied areas.
4. Schedule AC MaintenanceA well-maintained AC cools more efficiently. Change filters regularly, clean coils, and check refrigerant levels.
5. Invest in a Smart ThermostatSmart thermostats learn your schedule and adjust temperatures automatically, maximizing comfort and energy savings.
Common Mistakes with AC Temperature SettingsTempe homeowners often make these mistakes:
  • Setting it too low: Running the AC at 68–70°F may feel cool but drastically increases energy bills and strains the system.
  • Constantly adjusting the thermostat: Frequent changes make your AC work harder and reduce efficiency.
  • Ignoring humidity: High indoor humidity can make even 78°F feel uncomfortable. Use a dehumidifier or ensure your AC’s humidity control is working.
Benefits of Proper AC Temperature SettingsMaintaining the recommended temperature provides multiple advantages:
  • Lower energy costs: Optimal settings reduce unnecessary energy usage.
  • Enhanced comfort: Balanced temperatures keep your home consistently cool.
  • Prolonged AC lifespan: Less strain on the system reduces the likelihood of breakdowns.
  • Improved indoor air quality: Efficient cooling helps control humidity and reduce allergens.
When to Call HVAC Tempe ProsEven with the right temperature settings, your AC may struggle due to:
  • Low refrigerant levels
  • Clogged filters or dirty coils
  • Malfunctioning thermostats
  • Leaks or damaged components
If your AC is not keeping up with the recommended temperature or your energy bills are unusually high, call HVAC Tempe Pros for expert AC Repair Tempe , maintenance, or AC Replacement Arizona.
Emergency and Preventative AC ServicesWe offer:
  • Fast, reliable AC repair in Tempe
  • Annual maintenance programs to prevent breakdowns
  • System inspections and tune-ups
  • Smart thermostat installation and programming
Our licensed technicians ensure your system is running efficiently, keeping your home comfortable all summer long.
Customer Testimonials"We set our AC to 78°F as recommended and followed the tips from HVAC Tempe Pros. Our home is comfortable, and our energy bills are much lower!" – Megan S., Tempe
"HVAC Tempe Pros installed a smart thermostat and did a full AC tune-up. Now our system cools perfectly, and we save money on electricity." – Jason L., Tempe
Schedule Your AC Service TodayDon’t let Arizona’s summer heat make your home uncomfortable or drive up energy costs. Trust HVAC Tempe Pros for expert AC repair, AC Maintenance Tempe, and energy-saving advice in Tempe, Arizona.
Call us today for a free estimate. Keep your home cool, efficient, and comfortable all summer long with professional HVAC service.