Know The Ideal AC Temperature in Summer
Professional Services Heating, AC & Electric Repair
June 16, 2022
Setting your ideal AC temperature in summer will keep you and your family cool while curbing skyrocketing energy bills. However, finding the perfect temperature may vary for each home.
If you set your AC temperature too low, your bills might increase, but if you put it too high, you might find yourself battling the heat. In addition, factors like the time of day, the age of the people living in your home, and if you have pets or plants can affect your ideal AC temperature.
We'll explore different situations and factors that may affect your ideal AC temperature in summer. We'll also explore how maintenance from a top-rated Saukville HVAC servicing company can make a difference.
The Average Ideal Indoor Temperature
A comfortable AC temperature is around 65 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit for most adults. This ideal indoor temperature changes throughout the day. For example, people sleep better at night when the temperature is lower—somewhere between 60 to 67 degrees.
During the day, you shouldn't set your temperature lower than 68 due to hypothermia risks. Additionally, if you have infants or small children in the home, they're at a greater risk of overheating. To prevent overheating, set your air conditioner below 72 degrees.
Of course, the average ideal AC temperature in summer may depend upon the individual, with some preferring a hotter or cooler temperature.
It's important to note that your thermostat may not reflect how your indoor air feels. Air conditioners work by extracting moisture out of the air, cooling your home. This process eliminates a lot of humidity, meaning the air will usually feel cooler than it is.
While your thermostat reads 70 degrees, the air will probably feel cooler. Sometimes it takes trial and error to find your optimal indoor temperature.
The Best Indoor AC Temperature For Pets and Plants
If you have pets or plants, you'll need to consider their safety when setting your ideal AC temperature in summer. Luckily, most plants and pets can endure higher temperatures than humans. However, you'll still want to avoid turning off your air conditioner when you leave.
The average dog can comfortably withstand temperatures of up to 82 degrees. Dogs with a lot of fur or a heavy coat—such as a husky—might prefer temperatures closer to 75 degrees. Cats are a little more flexible and are comfortable with temperatures around 85 degrees.
While cats and dogs are the two major types of pets, there are also reptiles, amphibians, rodents, fish, etc. You'll want to research each pet's temperature needs, as they can vary dramatically.
There are also many variations across house plants. For example, some prefer higher temperatures, while others will quickly shrivel up after a certain degree.
The Best Temperature for Reducing Energy Bills
Besides improving comfort levels, the ideal AC temperature in summer should also reduce your energy bills. While your air conditioner will use more power during the summer, there are some ways you can reduce energy bills while keeping everyone comfortable.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends an ideal temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit to keep your household cool while preserving energy. However, this temperature isn't comfortable for everyone, and you may need cooler temperatures on those particularly humid days or for better sleep.
Luckily, there are other methods you can use to reduce your energy bills while staying comfortable.
Invest in a Smart Programmable Thermostat
Many homeowners reduce their energy costs by adjusting their air conditioners throughout the day. However, making sure your AC unit cools down at night or rises before leaving for work can be a hassle.
By installing a smart programmable thermostat, you can have a set schedule. You can easily schedule to warm up before your eight-hour shift at the office and cool down right before you come home. Smart thermostats also allow you to control your indoor temperature in real-time anywhere.
A smart thermostat can also adjust itself based on your home's humidity level, how many people are in the house, weather conditions, and personal preferences. Of course, you can also manually override any settings.
Use Alternative Cooling Methods
Air conditioners are a modern luxury, but they can also use up energy. To take off the burden of your AC unit, you can also explore other cooling methods such as:
- Install ceiling fans: Ceiling fans use far less energy than an air conditioner, and their airflow can even help your AC unit perform better.
- Insulate your home: A well-insulated home will not only keep you warm in winter but can also keep you cool in summer. Insulation works by preventing warmth and coolness from escaping your home, and a home that's not well-insulated forces your AC unit to work harder.
- Upgrade your windows: Cool air can also leak through your windows, a common problem in older homes. Energy Star Windows are considered twice as efficient as the average window.
Regular HVAC Repair and Maintenance
The health of your HVAC system directly impacts your energy bills. A minor issue like dirty air filters will cause your AC unit to work harder, increasing your energy bills. Additionally, when your unit works harder, it becomes easier to break down.
Implementing regular AC maintenance sessions from a professional will prevent common AC problems like:
- Your AC unit is not blowing cool air
- Refrigerant leaks
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Tripped circuit breakers
- Your AC unit is not turning on
- Your AC unit turning on then turning off
Ensuring your air conditioner is in good health will reduce your energy bills and prevent expensive repairs or replacements down the road.
Find the Ideal AC Temperature in Summer with Professional Services
Every household has a different preferred summer AC temperature. However, 78 degrees Fahrenheit is considered the ideal temperature for comfort and reducing energy bills. If this temperature is outside your comfort level, there are ways to modify your home or AC unit.
Ensuring your HVAC system is maintained correctly can significantly improve your energy efficiency and comfort levels. Luckily, our team at Professional Services can help.
Learn how many hours your AC should run per day and other ways to maintain the ideal AC temperature in summer when you call Professional Services at
262-218-2636!
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