Should You Keep Your AC at One Temperature All Summer?

Usually, no: you can save energy by setting the thermostat a little warmer when you’re away and bringing it back to a comfortable temperature when you’re home. You don’t need to turn the AC off entirely, especially if you’re concerned about indoor humidity, pets, or anyone who needs a cooler space.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating should you leave your ac at one temperature all summer.

Start with a temperature you find comfortable while you’re home, then raise the setting by a few degrees when the house is empty. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, schedule the cooler setting to begin shortly before you return rather than keeping the house cool all day.

At night, let comfort guide you: some people prefer a cooler bedroom, while others can use a fan and a slightly warmer setting. A fan helps you feel cooler while you’re in the room, but it doesn’t lower the room’s temperature, so turn it off when you leave.

A relatively steady setting may be more comfortable during a severe heat wave, when someone is home throughout the day, or when heat poses a particular health concern. It can also help you avoid large swings in indoor humidity if your home tends to feel damp; if the air feels clammy, pay attention to humidity as well as the number on the thermostat.

Give your AC time to cool the house after a setback, especially on very hot afternoons. Setting the thermostat far below your target won’t make most systems cool faster, and it may leave you with a colder house than you wanted.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating when does a steady setting make sense.

Close blinds during the sunniest hours, use fans where people are present, and choose lightweight, breathable clothing. Our Stay Cool in Humid Heat – Summer Wardrobe Guide, Clothing Tips for Hot Weather, Breathable Fabrics & Smart Outfit Planning digital download focuses on dressing for hot, humid days; you can also read our guide to what to wear in humid heat.

Our team recommends adjusting the thermostat gradually so you can find a setting that works for your household. Your best summer routine is one you can live with comfortably, not a single number you must hold around the clock.