Electricity costs sure do skyrocket in the summertime, largely thanks to running the (absolutely necessary) air conditioner. If you find yourself grimacing every time you open the bill, then an adjustment may be in order. The trick is figuring out the best air conditioner temperature to save money, but without feeling like you’re in a perma-sauna. For the answer, we consulted HVAC and electricity specialists.
What Is the Best AC Temperature for a Low Electricity Bill?
A thermostat set to 78°F is considered the optimal home temperature during the summer months to save money while keeping comfortable. This number can fluctuate slightly depending on your preferences, but most experts recommend no lower than 74°F if you want to keep your electricity bill in check, says Patrick Gambel, HVAC expert and owner of General Heating & Air Conditioning.
If you live in an area where it gets extremely hot—with temperatures hovering above 100°F and even reaching 110°F, such as Nevada, Arizona, Texas, or New Mexico—then you may need to go slightly higher. Randy Huckstadt, HVAC expert for JustAnswer, recommends a temperature between 78 and 82°F for these outliers. He adds that going much lower than this can get very expensive.
“These operating ranges have proven to provide the best balance of indoor comfort, moisture removal, and energy efficiency,” Huckstadt says. “When you keep the inside temperature closer to the outside temperature, heat transfers into your home much slower.” For example, a 78°F set point when it’s 85°F outside.
The bigger the differential, the more your system will run. Huckstadt adds that each degree lower can cost as much as 3% more.
Should You Lower the AC When You’re Not Home?
Our experts recommend setting the thermostat three to 10 degrees higher when you’re away from home. However, you shouldn’t turn the air conditioner off completely.
“If nobody’s home during the day, letting the house get a little warmer can definitely help lower your energy bill,” Gambel says. “If you completely turn it off, your AC does have to work harder to cool the house back down when you get home.” Investing in a smart thermostat allows you to schedule your home to cool down before you return, avoiding wasted energy while still maintaining a safe indoor temperature, Huckstadt says.
If you live in a relatively cool location, then you may be able to get away with turning the AC off completely while traveling for extended periods of time. Huckstadt says a good temperature is around 85°F. In very hot climates, you can go up to 89°F. This reduces energy use while preventing issues caused by excessive heat and humidity, such as damage to electronics, wood furniture, house plants, and artwork.
Tips to Save More Money on Your Energy Bill
Along with adjusting your thermostat to the best air conditioner temperature, you can save money on your energy bill in the following ways:
- Keep the fan on auto mode: “If you’re trying to save money, keep your fan setting on ‘auto’ instead of ‘on,’” Gambel says. “When the fan is set to ‘on,’ it runs nonstop all day, even when the AC is not actively cooling the house.”
- Upgrade your thermostat: Look into programs like Energy Star Smart Thermostats to automate temperature shifts. “Many utility providers offer peak-time savings or demand-response programs that provide bill credits in exchange for minor, automated temperature adjustments during peak hours,” Huckstadt notes.
- Close windows and blinds: Gambel recommends doing this during the hottest parts of the day, when you’re away for the day, and while traveling.
- Insulate doors and windows: One of the best ways to save money on your AC bill in the summer is to insulate doors and windows. “You can block warm air from entering by sealing doors and windows with weatherstripping,” Huckstadt says.
- Maintain the HVAC: Change your air filters every one to three months, and ensure outdoor compressor units are clear of debris. Also keep the coil clean so the system can operate efficiently.
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