What should I set my AC to at night in the summer?

Finding the Perfect Summer Thermostat Balance

As summer heat peaks, keeping your home cool without skyrocketing your energy bill can feel like a high-wire act. Finding the right thermostat baseline helps maintain comfort while keeping power consumption in check.

The standard guideline for summer efficiency is setting your thermostat to 78°F during the day when you are home. This temperature offers a comfortable environment while preventing your air conditioner from running continuously.

At night, raising the temperature to 82°F while you sleep is ideal for maximum energy savings. While 82°F might sound a bit warm for bedtime, your body temperature naturally drops during sleep. You can easily stay cool by using a ceiling fan to create a wind-chill effect and switching to lightweight, breathable bedding.

When everyone is out of the house, turn the unit up to 85°F when away. There is no need to cool an empty space, and raising the setting prevents unnecessary wear on your system while keeping electricity costs low.