New York has seen some serious heat this summer. Multiple times in July, Buffalo tied the record for the warmest low temperature, including 75 degrees F on July 1 and 74 degrees on July 3. The National Weather Service also reports that temperatures averaged 1.1 degrees above normal all month long.

Persistent summer heat and rising electricity costs give homeowners two big reasons to adjust their thermostats. Learn the best settings to limit unnecessary cooling expenses and ease pressure on the power grid.

Best Temperature Setting for Energy Efficiency

The most efficient thermostat setting is the highest temperature that still feels comfortable. Narrowing the difference between the indoor temperature and the outside air reduces your AC unit’s workload.

There are many ways to make a warmer room feel more comfortable. Try dressing for the season, closing the blinds over sunny windows, and running a fan in occupied rooms. These simple habits let you raise the thermostat a few degrees without becoming overheated.

What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat in Summer?

A good starting point is 78 degrees while you’re at home and awake. The best nighttime thermostat setting varies from person to person. Start at 78 degrees and adjust from there. If you’re a hot sleeper, running a ceiling fan should help you sleep more comfortably without lowering the temperature.

Setting the thermostat at 78 degrees is a guideline, not a requirement. Your health needs and personal preferences affect what’s right for you. Just remember, choosing 78 degrees over 72 degrees could save you up to 18% on your cooling bills.

Adjusting the Temperature Automatically Throughout the Day

Programmable and smart thermostats are a great way to adjust thermostat settings for energy savings without sacrificing comfort. You set your preferred temperatures at different times of the day, and the thermostat does the rest.

ENERGY STAR® recommends raising the temperature by about 7 degrees when you’re away during the day. That simple adjustment could save you up to 10% on your cooling bills.

The idea that temperature setbacks make your AC work harder during the recovery period is a misconception. It may run longer to catch up, but it uses less energy than maintaining an occupied temperature while you’re at work all day.

Of course, your thermostat needs an efficient air conditioner behind it to maximize the savings. Schedule air conditioning services with McAllister Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to keep your system running smoothly.

What to Set the Temperature at When You’re Not Home

Turning your thermostat completely off before leaving may seem economical. However, a closed house with the AC off can become extremely hot and humid during the summer. This could create conditions that encourage mold growth and damage sensitive electronics, wood furnishings, and flooring.

Consider setting your thermostat to 85 degrees when no one is home for the day. Then, program it to restore a comfortable 78 degrees shortly before you arrive.

If you have pets, that changes the equation. You may need to set the thermostat much closer to your normal occupied temperature to keep dogs and cats safe while you’re gone.

Stay Comfortable All Summer with AC Services from McAllister

Now that you know the best temperature settings for summer, you’re set to lower your cooling costs during the next heatwave. For more help keeping things cool, turn to McAllister Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.

We’re the top source for AC repair, maintenance, and installation services in Erie County. Your neighbors know us as the “Fair Price Guys” because we never add surprise fees to your bill. We’re also available 24/7 for cooling emergencies, even on our busiest summer days.

Contact us today to schedule AC services in the Southtowns.