Most Efficient Temperature For AC

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Updated May 17, 2023

If you are new to the world of indoor cooling, you may ask what is the most energy-efficient air conditioner temperature. Even the best air conditioners, after all, can eat up that energy bill, so any cost-saving tips are much appreciated. The Department of Energy has suggested that setting your AC to 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer provides a good mix of efficiency and comfort. Basically, set the thermostat as high as you can stand to stay comfortable and keep the energy bills down.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Air conditioning units can drastically increase your summer energy bills.
  • There is no “correct” temperature setting to increase energy efficiency, but 78F is a good mix between comfort level and savings.
  • You should also change out air filters and keep the unit clean to maintain efficiency, in addition to using Energy Star units.

What is the Best Temperature for AC Units?

There is no “best” temperature, as this depends on personal preference and the model’s effectiveness, even if you are learning what is SEER in an air conditioner.

Insider Tip

Clean the outdoor unit thoroughly, for those with central AC, as debris can make the system inefficient.

It doesn’t matter if you have learned what is an AC condenser if you are uncomfortable during the summer months. Using this temperature for a mix of efficiency and comfort, you won’t overload any circuits if you just learned about air conditioner voltage. Most AC models will also last longer with this method. A consistent temperature is also essential for beating the summer heat. By setting your preferred temperature, you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable and cool environment all season long.

It is important to maintain your unit, so we recommend you learn about the various components and metrics on a unit, like knowing what vane control is on an air conditioner.

Tips to Keep Energy Bills Down

Beyond finding the right temperature for you, there are other steps you can take to keep utility bills from driving you mad. Adjusting the temperature at night can help balance between comfort and cooling costs.

STAT: Each degree set above 72 can save you up to 3% on your cooling costs. (source)

Maintain the Air Filters

Air filters must be cleaned or replaced at regular intervals. Proper maintenance of the unit and its components is necessary to ensure ideal air conditioning conditions, including a comfortable air conditioning temperature. The lifespan of each filter changes depending on materials and usage, but you should look to replace or clean these filters at least every three months. Some are reusable, so just wash them under running water. For other designs, you’ll have to purchase replacements online or at a hardware store. If you own the best smart air conditioner, your unit is compatible with a smartphone app that can help you easily monitor air filter quality.

Use a Smart Programmable Thermostat

Purchase and install a smart programmable thermostat that allows you to set schedules and alter the temperature from a mobile device. How will this help with energy bills? You’ll be able to turn the AC off when you are not at home, for instance, and you can set cost-saving schedules ahead of time. There are also converter devices that turn a regular thermostat into a smart thermostat. This can be beneficial during the hot days of summer when everyone is looking for ways to regulate their personal comfort level while still saving money on utility bills.

F.A.Q.S

What is the outdoor temperature?

As a rule of thumb, the temperature outside dictates your thermostat settings. For energy savings, pay attention to this outside temperature and save on electricity bills.


What’s your ideal indoor temperature for comfort?

At the end of the day, one person’s comfortable temperature is another person’s discomfort. Change the thermostat temperature to the most comfortable setting for your personal needs.


What to do if you have window AC?

The methods are still the same with a window unit. So change the thermostat settings, look for Energy Star products, and find an ideal temperature to cut down on energy costs and utility costs.


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