Finding the Perfect Balance: The Best Temperature for Your AC in Summer

As the summer heat intensifies in Massachusetts, homeowners seek refuge in their air-conditioned homes. However, setting the right temperature on your AC unit can affect your comfort, energy efficiency, and utility bills. With proper guidance, you can strike the perfect balance. Enjoy a relaxed and comfortable indoor environment without wasting energy or overspending.

Understanding the Ideal AC Temperature for Summer 

Determining the ideal AC temperature for summer depends on personal preferences and local climate conditions. In Massachusetts, summers can be humid and hot, often reaching temperatures in the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. However, setting the thermostat too low can result in unnecessary energy consumption and higher electricity bills. Here are some guidelines to help you find the optimal temperature for your AC during summer:

Recommended AC Temperature Range

The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting the thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit during summer. This temperature strikes a balance between energy efficiency and comfort. However, individual preferences may vary, so feel free to adjust them within a range that suits your needs. Setting the temperature higher when you’re away from home can also help save energy.

Humidity Considerations

Massachusetts experiences high humidity levels during summer. You must keep your indoor humidity levels in check to control your home’s humidity. The ideal humidity range is between 30% and 50%. Adjusting your AC temperature to maintain this range can ensure a more comfortable indoor environment.

Nighttime Cooling

During the night, temperatures tend to drop, providing an opportunity for natural cooling. Opening windows and circulating cooler air can reduce the strain on your AC unit. Consider utilizing fans or a programmable thermostat to take advantage of this natural cooling process.

Energy Efficiency

Setting too low an AC temperature can lead to excessive energy consumption and higher utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for every degree you raise the thermostat above 72 degrees Fahrenheit, you can save up to 3% on your cooling costs. Opting for energy-efficient models and utilizing programmable thermostats can further enhance energy savings.

Another method to conserve energy is to ensure your home has the proper insulation to prevent cool AC air from escaping and warm air from entering. If you need to figure out how efficient your home is, contact professionals at Sinclaire Home Services. We’ll audit your home. Last but not least, make sure you’re regularly cleaning your AC system. 

Like any other engine, your AC needs to be taken care of to ensure it is keeping you cool on a hot summer day.

Health and Sleep

Extreme temperatures can disrupt sleep patterns and negatively impact health. Keeping your indoor temperature within a comfortable range, typically between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, can promote better sleep and overall well-being.

Depending on who lives in your home can also impact your AC temperatures for the summer. For instance, infants, older adults, and individuals with certain medical conditions may require slightly lower temperatures for optimal comfort. 

Those individuals with allergies can enjoy a range of 72 degrees Fahrenheit to 78 degrees Fahrenheit since this temperature range helps control humidity and keep the growth of mold and allergies to a minimum. 

Cost-Effectiveness

Striking a balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness is crucial. Setting your AC temperature within the recommended range and utilizing energy-saving features can reduce energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

Climate Control

Massachusetts summers can be unpredictable, with temperature variations throughout the day. Smart thermostats with climate control features can automatically adjust the AC temperature based on the surrounding conditions, ensuring optimal comfort.

Maintain Regular AC Maintenance

Schedule regular maintenance for your AC unit to ensure it operates at peak efficiency. Clean or replace filters regularly, check for leaks, and have professionals such as those at Sinclaire Home Services take a look. 

Our staff at Sinclaire Home Services has been caring for your residential and commercial needs in Massachusetts. We take care of your AC needs so that you can enjoy the warm summers. 

As fully licensed and insured professionals, all our staff, including technicians, are professionally trained and certified. Send us a message, and we will immediately have a technician reach out to diagnose and resolve your issues. 

Since 1948, Sinclaire Home Services has been a trusted family-owned business taking care of residential and commercial customers in the Boston region. We provide heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and other home services to care for your critical systems so you don’t have to worry about them. Give us a call today at (508) 668-8200.