The Best Temperature and Settings for AC In Summer

October 19, 2023

Finding the best temp for AC in summer can feel like a balancing act between staying comfortable and keeping energy bills in check. But optimizing your air conditioner settings can make a big difference for your comfort and wallet.

At Brothers, we understand the importance of creating a cool, welcoming home without overworking your system or skyrocketing your costs. In this guide, we’ll break down the ideal air conditioner setting for summer and provide practical tips to keep your home comfortable all season long.

For expert cooling services and help to keep your AC in top shape, call us at 704-620-6252 or schedule a service online.

What is the Best Temperature to Set an AC in the Summer?

The best temp for AC in summer is typically around 78°F when you’re at home and need cooling. This setting balances comfort and energy savings, but you can adjust it slightly based on your personal preferences.

Tips for AC Settings in the Summer

Finding the right air conditioner setting for summer is just one piece of the puzzle regarding staying cool and energy efficient. Small adjustments and smart strategies can greatly impact comfort and energy savings. Below, we’ll share practical tips to help you get the most out of your AC while maintaining the best temp for AC in summer.

Increase Temperature When Away or Sleeping

When you’re not home, set your thermostat higher—around 85°F—to save energy while protecting your home from heat-related issues. Consider increasing the temperature a few degrees at night since your body naturally cools down during sleep. Adjusting your air conditioner setting for summer can reduce wear on your system and lower your energy bills.

Ceiling Fan Direction

Ceiling fans are a great way to complement your cooling efforts. In the summer, set your fan to rotate counterclockwise, which creates a cooling breeze and helps distribute cool air more efficiently. Optimal ceiling fan rotation makes you feel cooler at a higher thermostat setting.

Seasonal AC Maintenance

Regular air conditioner maintenance ensures your AC runs at peak efficiency during the hot months. Cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and scheduling professional service can help you maintain the ideal air conditioner setting for summer without overworking your unit. Brothers makes staying on a maintenance schedule easier without breaking the bank with our Pro Service Plans. Plus, you’ll get discounts on AC repairs, accessories, and system replacements.

Other Options for Staying Cool in the Summer

Now that you know what temperature you should set your air conditioner in the summer, it’s worth learning about other cost-effective ways to keep your home cool and comfortable. These alternatives can reduce your reliance on the AC, lower energy bills, and help you maintain a pleasant indoor environment even during the hottest months.

Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat allows you to program cooling schedules, automatically adjust temperatures when you're away, and even monitor your usage remotely. By fine-tuning your cooling patterns, you can stay comfortable and reduce energy use without relying heavily on the AC.

Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans circulate air to create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler even at higher temperatures. Using fans strategically can improve comfort and reduce the strain on your air conditioning system.

Open Windows

Opening windows lets fresh air circulate throughout your home during cooler mornings or evenings. This natural ventilation can cool your space without turning on the AC, especially when paired with cross-breezes.

Blinds

Keeping blinds or curtains closed during the day blocks out heat from direct sunlight, preventing indoor temperatures from rising. This simple step reduces the need for constant air conditioning and helps maintain a cooler home.

Weatherization

Sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and vents prevents hot air from entering and cool air from escaping. Proper insulation and weatherproofing keep your home naturally cooler and maximize the efficiency of any cooling methods you use.

Change Filters

An AC filter cleans the air entering and circulating through the AC system. The filter captures unwanted materials, preventing occupants from breathing them in and improving indoor air quality. Captured materials include:

Allergens such as pollen
Mold
Animal hair and dander
Dust and dirt
Bacteria
Particles of wood, plaster, metal, and other home materials

Running a system without a filter or with a dirty filter can lead to many problems, from decreased home comfort to system failure. The most common problems include:

Higher energy bills: Systems must work harder to suck in contaminants. Greater energy consumption equals higher energy bills.
Poor air quality: High-quality air filters remove almost all airborne particles. If your filter is too dirty, it may not do its job properly, reducing air quality.
Motor and compressor issues: When motors or compressors fail or underperform, the problems can be traced back to system-straining dirt and debris. Blocking that dirt and debris with the correct filter should help an AC system operate with less effort and greater longevity.
Water damage: Without an air filter, condensate drains can become clogged. Condensate is humidity extracted from the air. With no place to go, it may back up and damage the system.

Turn Off Appliances

Appliances like ovens, stoves, and even incandescent light bulbs generate significant heat. Avoid using them during the hottest parts of the day, and opt for alternatives like grilling outdoors or using energy-efficient lighting to keep your home cooler.

Run a Dehumidifier

Humidity can make your home feel much warmer than it is. Running a dehumidifier reduces moisture levels, making it easier to stay cool and comfortable without overworking your AC. It’s an efficient way to create a more pleasant indoor environment during the summer.

Use Reflective Window Film

Reflective window film blocks heat and harmful UV rays from entering your home, keeping your space cooler and protecting your furnishings from sun damage. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution for reducing indoor temperatures.

Unplug Unused Electronics

Even when turned off, many electronics generate heat if left plugged in. Unplugging devices you’re not actively using helps minimize unnecessary heat buildup, keeping your home cooler and lowering energy costs.

Install Attic or Roof Insulation

Proper insulation in your attic or roof prevents hot air from seeping into your home and helps your cooling system work more efficiently. Upgrading insulation is a long-term investment that pays off with a consistently cooler home and reduced energy bills.

Let Brothers Help You Beat the Heat This Summer

When it comes to beating the summer heat, Brothers has you covered. From ensuring you have the best temp for AC in the summer to offering tips for maximizing home energy efficiency, we’re here to help you stay comfortable all season long. Take advantage of our specials and explore financing options to make your AC maintenance or upgrade more affordable.

Looking for more tips? Check out our blogs on summer tips you should know and how to create a great home space during picnic season. Whether it’s cooling your home or enhancing your outdoor spaces, Brothers is your partner in comfort.

Don’t wait—call 704-620-6252 to schedule your service today and enjoy a summer that’s as cool as you are!