Searching for the ideal AC setting for summer?
You’re not alone. In Summer, Google trends spike with homeowners wondering if 72°F is too low, if 78°F is too high, or if they should be adjusting by day and night. But here’s what most blogs don’t tell you:
The best AC setting doesn’t matter… if your system hasn’t been maintained.
Before we talk numbers, let’s make sure your air conditioner is actually ready to perform the way it should — because if it’s dirty, clogged, or leaking, it doesn’t matter what you set it to.
1. Your AC can’t do its job if you don’t do yours
Before summer hits, your system should go through a basic maintenance check — whether it’s central air, a mini-split, or a window unit.
Why? Because dust, mold, or blocked airflow can reduce performance by up to 30%.
Here’s what should be checked or cleaned:
✅ Air filters (replace or wash)
✅ Vents and grilles (wipe down and unblock)
✅ Drain lines (clear out to prevent leaks)
✅ Coils and fins (remove dust buildup)
✅ Exterior units (clear any leaves or obstructions)A clean AC doesn’t just cool better — it saves energy and lasts longer.
2. So… what’s the ideal AC setting for summer?
Now that your system is ready, here’s the number everyone wants:
78°F (25.5°C) is considered the best AC setting for energy efficiency and comfort when you’re home and awake.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy and Energy Star guidelines:
- • When you’re home but asleep → Raise it to 82°F (28°C)
- When you’re away from home → Set it to 85°F (29.5°C)
If that feels a bit warm, use fans to help circulate cool air and reduce the load on your AC.
3. What about in New York & New Jersey?
In regions like NY and NJ, where humidity plays a big role, comfort often depends not just on temperature, but also on moisture control. So if your AC is struggling to make 78°F feel fresh, the issue might be:
- Poor insulation
- Dirty filters
- Humidity above 60%
- Or… it just hasn’t had maintenance in over a year
In that case, lowering the temperature won’t solve the problem — but a technician can.
4. When to call someone
If your AC:
- • Feels weak or uneven
- Smells musty when turned on
- Leaks or drips
- Runs constantly but cools poorly
… it’s time to get it checked. You could be losing comfort and money at the same time.
Set your AC to 78°F — but only after giving it what it needs to perform. Because the best setting isn’t a number — it’s a clean, maintained system that responds when you need it most.
Need help ASAP?
We help homeowners across NY & NJ keep their AC clean, efficient, and summer-ready — before the heat becomes a headache.
We’re always sharing real, practical tips to protect your appliances.
Come hang with us on Instagram
👉@tripleaappliances
Or just give us a call. We’re here to help:
📍 NY: (718) 560-3131 📍 NJ: (551) 355-5869
