Simple adjustments can make a big difference. Running ceiling fans in conjunction with the AC helps circulate cool air and allows you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher. Closing curtains or blinds during peak sunlight hours can prevent additional heat from entering, reducing the workload on your AC.
Since 72 degrees is generally agreed upon to be an ideal indoor temperature, most people would probably still feel comfortable setting their AC units slightly higher than this, perhaps at around 75.
Increase the thermostat
If you are just as comfortable with your thermostat one or two degrees higher than you currently have it set, go ahead and turn it up. Even a one degree difference will have an impact on your energy bill. Many recommend 78 degrees as a good temperature for air conditioners to run efficiently.
As it turns out, the most efficient way to keep your home cool and the bills low is to leave the AC running—ideally, with the temperature turned up toward the upper 70s.
The less your HVAC uses, the lower your electric bill will be. So, keeping your air conditioning summer at a constant temperature helps your home stay comfortable without creating spikes in your HVAC use. Remember that the recommended temperature of 78° F can be used as a baseline.
AUTO is significantly more energy efficient between the two modes since the fan is only running when your AC is going through its cooling cycle. This takes less power, which is more budget-friendly, with some estimates showing you can save as much as $50 per month just by keeping your AC on AUTO.
Does Turning AC On And Off Versus Leaving It On Cost More? Ultimately, yes, it is more expensive to turn your air conditioning on and off throughout the day. This is because your AC will be experiencing additional wear and tear, along with working harder to restore optimal levels.
According to the Department of Energy1, 78° Fahrenheit is the sweet spot for air conditioners to balance energy savings and comfort when people are at home and need cooling.
For many of us, 70 degrees is the ideal indoor temperature, but when it is close to 100 degrees outside, your AC unit will be working quite hard to meet these expectations. Consider setting your thermostat at 75 degrees to 80 degrees in your home if the outside temperature is approaching triple digits.
The best way to save money is by combining both. The “run” feature lets you preset the temperature when you're not home to prevent wasting money on cooling or heating an empty home. Meanwhile, the “hold” button lets you change the room's temperature without changing your energy-saving, preset schedule.
Eco or energy-saving mode
This is the ideal mode for users looking to save up on energy bills by toning down the performance of the AC and its compressor. Eco-mode uses less electricity by automatically adjusting the fan speed and temperature, while still maintaining a comfortable level of cooling.
On an average summer day, a general guideline is that your AC should operate between 12 and 16 hours. However, several factors can influence this, including the outdoor temperature, desired indoor temperature, the size and type of your unit, and your home's energy efficiency.
Your AC might not cool properly due to thermostat issues, an undersized unit, or extremely high outdoor temps—so check those first. Keep an eye on airflow—replace clogged filters every 3 months, and make sure vents and ducts aren't blocked for efficient cooling.
Frequent cycling, where you turn your air conditioner off and back on often, can increase your electricity bill and cause your system to wear down faster. However, strategic cycling—like raising the thermostat when you're not home—can lead to significant savings.
In the summer, experts say the thermostat for your air conditioner should be set to at least 78°F during the day when people are at home. That setting is designed to help people avoid high energy bills in the summer. The lower your thermostat setting, the higher your bill.
According to the DOE, setting your thermostat back 7°F to 10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting can help you save up to 10% in energy costs. This means keeping your thermostat around 78°F in the summer (higher when you're asleep or away) or around 68°F to 70°F in the winter (lower when you're asleep or away).
Keeping your fan on AUTO is the most energy-efficient option. The fan only runs when the system is on and not continuously. There is better dehumidification in your home during the summer months. When your fan is set to AUTO, moisture from cold cooling coils can drip and be drained outside.
Auto mode is ideal for homeowners who want to maintain a consistent temperature in their homes without having to constantly adjust the settings. It's especially useful during the hot summer months when temperatures can be extreme.