Cooling and heating account for more than half of the average American home’s monthly utility bill. Making one simple adjustment to your thermostat schedule can keep your home comfortable while shaving off a massive portion of your summer power costs.
The “78-Degree Rule” Recommended by Energy Experts
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you are home and awake during summer months. Every degree you raise the temperature above 72°F saves roughly 3% to 5% on cooling costs over 24 hours.
3 Simple Thermostat Habits That Multiply Savings
- Set It to 82°F When Away: Setting the thermostat higher while you are at work prevents the compressor from cycling continuously to cool an empty house.
- Use “Auto” Fan Mode Instead of “On”: Leaving the fan setting on “On” blows humid air back into the rooms when the compressor shuts off. Keep it on “Auto” so the fan runs only when actively cooling.
- Combine AC With Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans create a wind-chill effect on your skin, making a 78°F room feel like 74°F while using less than 10% of the energy a compressor requires.
Small daily adjustments like these protect your HVAC equipment from overheating while keeping your bank account intact.