.svg){kind=small}
When the summer heat rolls in, so do the increasing energy bills. While blasting the air conditioner might feel like the easiest way to stay cool, maintaining the right indoor temperature can help you stay comfortable while saving money.
But what is the best energy-efficient temperature for your home or workplace in the summer, and why does it matter?
Why Temperature Matters: Comfort, Cost, and Carbon
Your thermostat setting doesn’t just influence how comfortable you feel, it impacts:
- Your utility bills
- Your HVAC system’s lifespan
- Your carbon footprint
Heating and cooling accounts for about 44% of a typical home’s energy use (U.S. Energy Information Administration). Making small adjustments can result in big savings.
.png)
The Sweet Spot: 78°F (25–26°C)
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the optimal energy-efficient temperature during summer when you’re home and awake is 78°F (25.5°C). It strikes a balance between keeping your space cool and minimizing the amount of energy your AC system uses.
Here’s why 78°F is the best temperature:
- Energy Savings: For every degree you raise your thermostat above 72°F, you can save up to 3% on cooling costs. Keeping it at 78°F can significantly lower your bill over time.
- System Longevity: Your AC doesn’t have to work as hard, helping it last longer and need fewer repairs.
- Humidity Control: This temperature is effective at controlling humidity, a key comfort factor in hot weather.
.png)
At Work: Comfort Meets Efficiency
Office temperatures can be tricky because everyone has a different comfort level. But setting the thermostat to around 76°F to 78°F in the summer is usually a good compromise. It keeps most people comfortable while keeping your cooling system from overworking.
Encourage workplace comfort by:
- Allowing desk fans or light layers for personal control
- Using shades or blinds to block solar heat
- Scheduling HVAC use around office hours to reduce waste
.png)
When You’re Away or Asleep
- Away from Home? Set your thermostat to 85°F or use a smart thermostat to adjust automatically.
- Sleeping? Some people prefer cooler temperatures for better sleep. When the temperature drops below 78°F at night, it's a good time to bring in outside air by opening windows and using a whole house fan. Alternatively, using a ceiling fan can make the room feel up to 5 degrees cooler. Lowering the thermostat slightly to 78°F can improve sleep without significantly increasing your energy bill.
.png)
Bonus Tips to Stay Comfortable
- Use ceiling fans: They can make a room feel up to 5°F cooler.
- Block the sun: Close curtains during the day to reduce heat.
- Maintain your HVAC system: Clean filters = better airflow and efficiency.
- Seal air leaks: Keep the cool air in and hot air out.
.png)
The Environmental Angle
Using less energy doesn’t just help your budget, but it also helps the planet. By reducing electricity usage:
- You lower your carbon emissions
- You reduce strain on the power grid during summer peak hours
- You help prevent brownouts or blackouts in your community
.png)
Final Recommended Settings Summary
The best energy-efficient temperature during summer is:
- Home & Awake: 78°F
- At Work: 76–78°F
- Away from Home: 85°F
- Sleeping: 78°F (if needed for comfort)
By adjusting your thermostat just a few degrees and taking simple steps to stay cool, you can reduce your energy usage, lower your bills, and keep your living and working spaces comfortable all summer long.
Stay cool, save smart.
.png)
