As soon as the warm weather hits, everything shifts a little — your schedule, your clothes, and how your home feels. You start thinking about how to stay cool without overworking your air conditioner or running up the electric bill. And right at the center of all of that? Your thermostat.
Getting the best thermostat temperatures and settings for summer is one of those small changes that can make a big difference. It’s not just about feeling comfortable — it’s also about saving money, keeping your system running better, and finding what works for your home and family.
Let’s break down the recommended thermostat settings for summer and take the guesswork out of what settings actually help during the hottest months.
Why Your Summer Thermostat Settings Matter
Your thermostat isn’t just a temperature control — it plays a big role in how your home handles the heat and how much you end up spending.
Keep Cool Without Overdoing It
Your air conditioner can only do so much. The higher the outside temperature, the harder your system has to work to keep things feeling just right inside. Choosing the best thermostat temperature for summer helps keep your system from running nonstop and saves you a bit on your monthly bills.
Energy Bills Add Up Fast
Setting your thermostat a few degrees higher than you’re used to can make a real impact on your electricity use. Even small changes can cut back on energy consumption, which is especially helpful during those peak summer heat waves.
HVAC Longevity Counts
If your HVAC is constantly fighting to cool your home, you might end up needing repairs sooner than you’d like. Using the recommended thermostat settings for summer can take a little stress off your system.
Best Thermostat Temperature for Summer Comfort
So, what’s a good starting point? A lot of people find that around 78°F hits that sweet spot where you stay comfortable without going overboard.
Start at 78°F and Adjust
If that feels too warm, you can use other tricks to help, like running a ceiling fan to move air around. A fan won’t actually lower the temperature, but it can make it feel a few degrees cooler — just enough to avoid dropping the thermostat.
Dress for the Season
It sounds simple, but wearing lighter clothing at home can help you feel cooler without cranking the AC down to 72°F. Keep it casual and light, and your energy bill will thank you.
Deal With Hot Spots
Some rooms just feel warmer than others. Try blocking out afternoon sunlight with blackout curtains, or check your duct system for blockages. Uneven cooling often points to airflow issues.
What Temperature to Set the Thermostat in Summer When Away
Leaving the house for a few hours — or even a week — means it’s time to make some adjustments.
Short Trips Away From Home
If you’re just heading to work or running errands, bump your thermostat up by about five to seven degrees. That usually lands around 83 to 85°F, which cuts back on cooling costs while still keeping your house from overheating.
Extended Travel or Vacations
So, what temperature should you set the thermostat in summer when you’re away for an extended period of time? If you’ll be gone for days, setting your thermostat to 85°F or higher works well — unless you have pets or indoor plants. In that case, keep it closer to 80°F to keep them safe and comfortable.
Smart Thermostats Make It Easier
Let’s be real — most people don’t remember to change the thermostat every time they leave the house. That’s where tech can help.
Programmable Options
A programmable thermostat lets you schedule temperatures for different times of the day. That means your system can cool less during the hours when no one’s home and shift back before everyone returns.
Control From Your Phone
A smart thermostat adds another layer — automation. With apps, you can control your settings from your smartphone, even if you’re not home. That kind of home automation adds both convenience and savings.
Other Factors That Affect Thermostat Settings in Summer
While setting the thermostat correctly is key, other parts of your home and environment can change how cool (or hot) it feels. These extra details can make or break your comfort.
Humidity Makes a Big Difference
High humidity can make your home feel warmer than it really is. Even if your thermostat says 78°F, it might feel closer to 85°F when there’s a lot of moisture in the air. Running a dehumidifier helps make your home feel cooler, and as a bonus, your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard.
Sunlight Heats Things Up Fast
If the sun beams directly into your windows during the afternoon, you’ll likely notice those rooms get warmer than the rest of the house. Use blackout curtains or reflective window film to block out some of that sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. It keeps the indoor room temperature more even.
Keep the Air Moving
If air isn’t circulating well, your system will struggle. Make sure your vents aren’t blocked, your ducts are clean, and your ventilation system is functioning properly. Even something as simple as rearranging furniture to avoid blocking a vent can help.
Don’t Skip Maintenance
Knowing the best thermostat temperature for summer is important, but it’s just one factor that affects your system’s performance. One of the best things you can do for your air conditioner during the summer is schedule regular maintenance. A clean, tuned-up unit runs more efficiently, keeps your home cooler, and uses less energy.
Getting a seasonal checkup from a professional helps prevent breakdowns, especially during high-use periods. If you’re using a ductless system, don’t forget that it needs attention, too. A ductless AC tune-up helps keep each zone operating efficiently, which is ideal if your family spends time in different parts of the house during the day.
Summer Comfort Without Sacrifice
You don’t have to sacrifice comfort just to cut costs. Finding the best thermostat temperature for summer is all about balance. Keep things cool when it matters most, and give your system a break when it doesn’t.
Taking a moment to think about what temperature to set the thermostat in summer when you’re away and when you’re home can go a long way in improving comfort and efficiency.
And if you’re aiming for a bit more control and less guesswork, a smart or programmable thermostat can make daily adjustments second nature. Combine that with small, smart upgrades around the house — like weatherproofing, smart fans, and good habits — and you’ve got yourself a summer setup that works hard without driving up your bill.
Schedule Your Summer AC Services in Canton, OH, Today!
Need help getting your system ready for summer? Quality Heating & Cooling is your go-to for professional air conditioning repair in Canton, OH, and the surrounding areas.
We know that families depend on reliable cooling during the hottest months — so if your home isn’t staying cool or your AC seems to be struggling, it might be time for a checkup. Call us today to schedule your service!
