The Golden Rule

What Temperature Should I Have My AC Set At?

In the sweltering heat of summer, air conditioning is not just a luxury; it's a necessity for comfort and sometimes even for health. However, finding that perfect thermostat setting to balance comfort, efficiency, and expenses can be a tricky endeavor. This blog explores the ideal temperature settings for your air conditioner (AC) to ensure you stay cool without blowing up your energy bills.

The Golden Number: 78°F

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you're at home and awake. While this might seem a tad warm for some, it's considered an efficient setting that can prevent your AC from overworking, thus saving you money on energy bills without sacrificing comfort. But remember, the "ideal" temperature can vary based on personal preference, humidity levels, and the specific conditions of your home.

Adjustments for Comfort and Efficiency

When You’re Away

Increasing the thermostat setting by 7°F to 10°F when you're away can lead to significant energy savings. Modern programmable or smart thermostats can make these adjustments automatically, ensuring you return to a comfortably cool home.

During Sleeping Hours

For many, a slightly cooler environment promotes better sleep. Thus, setting your thermostat to 75°F (24°C) or slightly lower might be beneficial during night-time hours. Again, personal comfort plays a role, so feel free to adjust based on what works best for you.

Factors Influencing the Ideal Setting

Humidity

High humidity can make indoor temperatures feel warmer than they actually are. Dehumidifying capabilities of AC units or using a separate dehumidifier can help make a higher thermostat setting more comfortable.

Personal Preference

Comfort is subjective. Some people may feel comfortable at higher temperatures, while others may prefer cooler settings. Start with recommended settings and adjust based on your comfort levels.

Home Insulation

Well-insulated homes retain cool air more efficiently, allowing you to set your thermostat at a higher temperature while still enjoying a cool environment. Conversely, if your home is poorly insulated, your AC might need to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.

Saving Even More

Use Fans

Ceiling fans can allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort by creating a wind-chill effect.

Maintenance

Regularly changing or cleaning AC filters and scheduling annual maintenance checks can ensure your unit runs efficiently.

Window Treatments

Using blinds or curtains to block out the sun during the hottest parts of the day can keep your home cooler, reducing the workload on your AC.

Ultimately, the best AC temperature setting is one that balances comfort with energy efficiency. While 78°F is a good starting point when you're at home and active, adjustments based on your lifestyle, the specific conditions of your home, and personal preferences are key to finding your optimal setting. Implementing energy-saving strategies can also contribute to lower bills and a comfortable, cool home environment throughout the hot summer months.

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Why You Should Invest in an HVAC Maintenance Contract: Top 3 Reasons

By Loren Crabtree • February 11, 2025

Why You Should Invest in an HVAC Maintenance Contract: Top 3 Reasons Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is not just about ensuring the comfort of your home; it's a crucial part of safeguarding the investment in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. An HVAC maintenance contract can be a game-changer for homeowners, offering several benefits that go beyond the routine check-up. Here are the top three reasons why getting an HVAC maintenance contract is a wise decision: 1. Cost Savings One of the most compelling reasons to invest in an HVAC maintenance contract is the potential for significant cost savings. Here's how it affects your budget positively: Reduced Repair Costs: Regular maintenance catches issues before they escalate into major problems, reducing the likelihood of facing expensive repairs down the line. Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, consuming less energy and thereby lowering your utility bills. Small adjustments made during routine maintenance can improve energy efficiency, leading to noticeable savings over time. Extended System Lifespan: Regular check-ups and fixes can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, postponing the substantial cost of system replacement. 2. Improved System Performance and Comfort An efficiently running HVAC system directly impacts your home's comfort and air quality: Consistent Temperatures: Regular maintenance ensures that your system distributes air evenly and maintains consistent temperatures throughout your home, eliminating hot or cold spots. Better Air Quality: Maintenance includes cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting ductwork, and checking the system's cleanliness. This not only improves the air quality by reducing pollutants and allergens but also enhances the overall performance of your HVAC system, making it easier to breathe and enjoy your indoor space. Reliability: Knowing that your HVAC system has been professionally inspected and maintained gives you peace of mind. You can trust that your system will work reliably, especially during extreme weather conditions when you need it the most. 3. Priority Service and Convenience Having an HVAC maintenance contract often comes with perks that make the service even more worthwhile: Priority Service: Contract holders typically receive priority scheduling for maintenance visits and repairs. This means if your system breaks down, especially during peak seasons, you'll be at the top of the list for service calls. Reminder Services: It can be easy to forget about scheduling maintenance visits. Most companies that offer maintenance contracts will keep track of this for you, reaching out to schedule your bi-annual maintenance visits at the appropriate times. Comprehensive Service Records: With a contract, your HVAC provider maintains a history of all services performed on your system, allowing for a more tailored and efficient service experience. This comprehensive history can also be valuable for warranty claims and when assessing the health and longevity of your system. Investing in an HVAC maintenance contract is not just about fulfilling a routine maintenance checklist; it's about securing a partnership that ensures the longevity, efficiency, and reliability of your heating and cooling system. The peace of mind, cost-saving benefits, and enhanced performance of your HVAC system make the maintenance contract a worthwhile investment for any homeowner. Prioritizing your home's comfort and your system's health through a maintenance contract will always be a smart choice for the savvy homeowner.