Best Thermostat Temperature Settings for Summer

Every homeowner’s dream is to strike the right balance between a cool, comfortable house and a reasonable energy bill during the hot summer months.

Finding that balance may be easier said than done, however. There is an ideal thermostat temperature settings for summer, however, which works to keep your home cool while reducing your energy expenses.

What Is the Ideal Temperature Setting for the Summertime?

Based on research from experts, the ideal thermostat temperature setting in the summer season is 78℉. Any higher and you won’t be using your air conditioner as efficiently, which may show up in higher utility bills.

Basically, the goal is to keep the difference between your home’s indoor temperature and the outdoor temperature as minimal as possible. The less of a difference between the indoors and outdoors, the less energy you’re using to keep your home cool. And, as long as the temperature is lower inside, you will still feel cooler if you walk in from the hot sun.

Unfortunately, some people may find that 78℉ is less than ideal, whether it’s because of their own body chemistry or the climate. If this is a problem, you can try raising or lowering your thermostat temperature by one or two degrees each day. Over time, everyone will adjust to the new temperature.

Another option is simply raising the temperature when you’re away at work or at night when everyone is asleep. Our heat tolerance is better while we sleep, which is when the body naturally cools down.

How to Regulate Your Body’s Temperature Level

In addition to getting everyone acclimated to the ideal indoor temperature, you can try to regulate your own body temperature more effectively. Here are some tips to help you stay cool:

Stay on Top of Your Hydration

Overheated? Try drinking some water. Though it may be surprising, hydration is an important part of regulating your body temperature.

We sweat a lot in the summer because of the heat, humidity, and sun exposure. We lose fluids when we sweat, and if we don’t replenish them, we can become dehydrated.

Adequate hydration is important for your health and safety, but it also keeps you from feeling overheated. When you’re dehydrated, your body can’t sweat to cool yourself effectively, and you may feel warmer than usual.

Just How Much Water Should You Consume?

The conventional wisdom of “eight 8-ounce glasses each day” isn’t the right fit for everyone. It’s a good start, but it’s best to monitor your own needs and track your fluid intake. Factors like your body weight, general health, and activity level all impact your hydration levels.

In the summer, you may need more fluids to keep yourself hydrated while you’re sweating. Be sure to replenish your electrolytes as well as fluids with sports drinks.

Dress Properly for the Weather

Most people choose shorts and tank tops or short-sleeved shirts when the warm days hit. Though that may seem like the best choice in the heat, it can make you feel warmer. All that exposed skin is in direct sunlight, raising your body temperature.

The best clothing for hot weather is lightweight, breathable clothing in natural fibers. Try to find clothing that fits loosely, which allows you to cool off. You should also choose light colors that reflect light, rather than dark colors that absorb them.

Babies Should Also Be Kept Cool

Babies require different temperatures than adults because they can’t regulate their body temperature as well. They also can’t bundle up on their own if they’re cold or shed layers if they feel overheated. It’s up to us to keep them comfortable.

The ideal temperature for babies is between 65℉ and 74℉. Keeping the temperature higher or lower can leave them vulnerable to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

You should also be aware of your baby’s clothing. Avoid bundling your baby up with heavy layers or blankets at night, which can cause overheating, and use a fan to keep the air circulating in the room.

Control Home Temperatures with a Smart or Programmable Thermostat

While keeping your home at the perfect 78℉ is a good start, there’s a lot more you can do to reduce your energy bills.

For example, turning the temperature up at night or while you’re away can make a huge difference in your energy consumption and expenses. Instead of messing around with the thermostat on your own, a smart thermostat can make these adjustments for you automatically.

These devices have other benefits, such as timers to automatically raise or lower the temperature when you leave for the day and when you return home. Smart thermostats also link to Wi-Fi and allow you to regulate your home’s thermostat based on factors like your family’s schedule and the weather forecast.

Trying to find professional advice and guidance on your home’s cooling system for the summer? Don’t hesitate to call the professionals at ASI!