In scientific circles, room temperature refers to about 71 degrees. That doesn't necessarily mean you should set your thermostat at 71 degrees year-round, though. While this temperature is considered the most comfortable for the human body, it’s not the best setting for every scenario. As a conscientious homeowner, it’s essential that you find a balance between comfort and efficiency when adjusting the air conditioner during the summer months. Here's what you should know about setting the thermostat in various situations. 

When You’re Home

The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting the thermostat to 78 degrees when your family is home during the summertime. This temperature is comfortable for most individuals without forcing the HVAC system to work overtime. If someone in your household finds it too warm, turning on fans and dehumidifiers will use less energy than turning down the temperature. 

When You’re Sleeping

Although everyone has their own preferences when it comes to sleeping, there are some generalities to keep in mind when setting the temperature at bedtime. Researchers have found that adults get the best sleep when the thermostat is set between 60 and 72 degrees. To save on utilities, start by setting the temperature to 72 degrees at nighttime, and see if that’s cool enough before going any lower. 

When You’re Away 

When no one’s home, the temperature can get as high as 83 degrees without threatening the well-being of healthy pets or houseplants. Installing a programmable thermostat and setting it to 83 whenever you're out will reduce utility costs considerably over the course of the summer. 

To ensure your heating and cooling system will remain responsive to the thermostat all year long, turn to Ron Hammes Refrigeration for periodic HVAC maintenance. Based in La Crosse, WI, this full-service residential and commercial contractor is proud to serve clients throughout the area. Their knowledgeable technicians take pride in the work they do, and they're committed to exceeding expectations for every job. To browse all of the work they're trained to perform, visit their website. To schedule service, call (608) 788-3110.