What Temperature Should an AC Be Set At?

Your air conditioner provides incredible relief during hot summer conditions, allowing you to achieve the exact temperatures you desire. However, indoor comfort can cause a higher energy bill than you might expect. This leads to many property owners asking, "What temperature should an AC be set at?" during the summer months to cut down on energy expenses and in other scenarios.

We'll explore what temperatures are best for various conditions and tips for saving money while using your cooling system. After learning more, don't hesitate to connect with our team at Premier Systems. We provide trusted AC maintenance in Bozeman, MT, and the surrounding areas, so call now!

What Temperature Should I Set My Air Conditioner at in the Summer?

The recommended indoor temperature for the summer is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, while it is 68 in the winter. Before making major adjustments to your thermostat, consider how you can keep your home cool. You can draw the blinds or curtains, turn on small fans, or use a ceiling fan.

These can prevent your air conditioner from working harder than necessary and decrease your energy costs. You can use 78 degrees Fahrenheit as a suggested starting point, then adjust your thermostat accordingly if you still feel uncomfortable. You should change it by one degree at a time until you're satisfied with indoor air conditions and not wasting extra energy.

The Ideal Temperature for Your Air Conditioner

While you are awake and in your home, it's a good idea to keep your property's temperature somewhere between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Since there is no perfect temperature for a home, you can consider the season and outdoor temperatures before adjusting your thermostat.

While you're sleeping, you don't need to use your air conditioner as much and should make an adjustment before bed. What temperature should an AC be set at while you're asleep? General recommendations are between 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ways To Save on Energy Bills While Using Your Air Conditioning System

Consider the following best tips to conserve energy and save money while using your air conditioner:

Set Your Thermostat Higher While Away

If you're going to work, school, or away from home for any other reason, you can set your AC temperature higher since no one will need the cool air. This will save money on your energy bills and is more effective than turning off your unit. It will take more energy to power on and reach your desired temperatures when you return if your air conditioner is off.

Programmable thermostats can help with this change and operate on a schedule based on your routine. You could use more comfortable temperatures while you're awake and spending time at home and rely on less energy while asleep or out of the house.

Use Ceiling Fans in Your Home

Ceiling fans create airflow that helps your air conditioner and can reduce your energy costs. Your home will feel more comfortable, too.

Invest in a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Although you might already know how air conditioners work, you may not realize the perks of a programmable or smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats let you create schedules for temperature changes in your home, but smart thermostats can learn from your habits and create the most energy-efficient cooling plan. Adjustments based on the weather are also possible, causing you to waste less energy.

Keep Up With Air Conditioning Maintenance

Making time for air conditioner maintenance will help your unit last longer and perform better without unexpected breakdowns. You'll have access to cool air whenever you like and can achieve your ideal comfort level. During maintenance, a professional might clean your system inside and out, replace faulty parts, and replace any clogged air filters, but you can also swap out old filters routinely and inspect your unit.

Invest in an Energy-Star Air Conditioner

Purchasing an Energy-Star air conditioning system is an excellent way to save money on your energy bills. 

Count on Premier Systems for Professional Air Conditioning and Thermostat Services in Bozeman, MT

Now that you know the answer to "What temperature should an AC be set at?" you might consider switching to a more energy-efficient AC system. You could also add a smart thermostat to your property to make temperature control even easier. Whatever you need for your home's cooling system, our team at Premier Systems can assist you for a reasonable price and with quick turnaround times.



We can help you cut down on your energy bills and make your Bozeman, MT, home more comfortable with quality HVAC appliances and services. Schedule a service appointment by calling (406) 599-8083.