Finding the right air conditioner temperature is the key to staying comfortable while keeping energy costs under control. Most experts recommend setting your thermostat between 75°F and 78°F (24°C–26°C) when you’re home. If 78°F feels too warm, 75°F is still considered an efficient setting. Humidity also plays an important role, so keeping indoor moisture levels under control can make your home feel cooler without lowering the temperature.

When you’re away from home, raising the thermostat to 80°F–85°F (27°C–29°C) can help reduce energy use without allowing your home to become excessively hot. Smart thermostats make this even easier by automatically adjusting the temperature when you leave and cooling your home shortly before you return, providing comfort while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption.

Several factors can influence the ideal AC setting, including your home’s size, insulation, local climate, and the number of people inside. It’s also important to remember that lowering the thermostat to a very low temperature won’t cool your home any faster—it will simply keep the system running longer and increase energy usage. Likewise, turning the AC off completely during hot days may use more energy than maintaining a slightly higher temperature while you’re away.

To improve cooling efficiency, replace your air filter every one to three months, seal air leaks around windows and doors, and schedule annual maintenance for your air conditioning system. These simple steps help your AC perform more efficiently, reduce wear on the system, and keep your home comfortable throughout the summer while lowering energy costs.