Millions of Americans are facing extreme temperatures this week, with much of the Southern and Western United States under heat advisories. That said, if you’re being impacted by the heat, you’ve probably noticed the toll it’s taking on your AC unit. Several people in Facebook groups in North Carolina have reported having their thermostat set to 73 in their home, but temps still reaching 79+ indoors. So, what is the optimal thermostat setting for the summer heat wave? Here’s what we’ve found.

Safety First During The Summer Heat Wave

Before we get into optimal thermostat settings and how you can balance this extreme heat with your finances, you need to consider the safety aspects of dealing with this kind of weather. Your personal safety should always come first. Here are some quick tips from the American Red Cross on how to stay cool.

• Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages.
• If you are sweating a lot, ensure you are eating plenty of snacks or sports drinks to replace the salt and minerals you may be losing in your sweat.
• Do not rely on electric fans during extreme heat.
• Taking a cool shower or bath can help you cool off.
• For those without air conditioning, seeking out AC in places like libraries, restaurants, or other public places will be helpful.
• Wear lightweight, loose clothing.
• Have a support system of people who all check on each other.
• Anyone on medications should consult their doctor about how the heat may impact them if they are forced to be out in it.

Additionally, there may be government assistance programs to help you combat the heat in one way or another. Check to see what may be available to you.

What Is The Best Temperature to Set Your AC?

Now that we’ve got safety out of the way, what is the best temperature to set your thermostat to? Well, answers may vary, depending on where you live and your personal preferences.

It probably won’t surprise you that there are some discrepancies between what energy companies recommend and what consumers prefer. Energy Star recommends setting your air conditioning to 78 degrees (yes, even in Florida).

Hardly anyone in America follows that recommendation, though. Back in 2021, a Consumer Reports survey showed that most folks in the U.S. set their air to around 72 degrees. No one reported having their air set to higher than 76 degrees at any given time.

What’s even more surprising is that they say that once the sun goes down, you can increase that temp by 4 degrees. Most Americans do the exact opposite. (Seriously, who can sleep in 82 degrees?)

How You Can Save On Your Energy Bills During The Summer Heat Wave

All of that said, there are some ways you can save on your energy bill when cooling your home in the summer (even during these intense temps). If you work away from home, you can adjust the thermostat to be 7 to 10 degrees warmer than you’d usually have it. Energy Star reported that this adjustment could save you as much as 10% per year on your energy bill.

Here are some other adjustments you can make to save:

• Get blackout curtains for your windows to block out the sun
• Look for and seal air leaks around baseboards, windows, doors, and light fixtures
• Try to avoid using heat-inducing appliances like the stove or oven
  • Opt for grilling out, using other appliances, or just going with a cold sandwich
• Use fans to help circulate air

What is your thermostat set to? How are you handling the summer heat wave? Let us know in the comments below. 

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Amanda Blankenship

Amanda Blankenship is a full-time stay-at-home mom. Her family recently welcomed their second child, a baby boy, into the world. She loves writing about various topics, including politics and personal finance. In her spare time, Amanda loves to play with her kids, make food from scratch, crochet, and read.