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What Is the Ideal AC Temperature for Arizona Homes?

The Arizona summer comes with extreme heat, but everyone has a different preference when it comes to their home’s thermostat setting.

However, there is an ideal temperature for both energy efficiency and comfort. ENERGY STAR® recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during spring and summer.

Factors That Influence Thermostat Settings

There are several things you’ll want to consider when programming your thermostat:

Outdoor Temperature

Some days may be slightly cooler than others, but Arizona summers are sweltering.

If you’re always running your AC full blast, you’ll be surprised at how much wear and tear it’ll put on your unit and how much your energy bills will be.

Time of Day

It’s usually cooler at night and first thing in the morning, so we recommend setting your thermostat as high as 78 degrees for those hours.

You’ll remain just as comfortable but can optimize your energy usage.

Humidity Level

Humid climates can feel colder in winter and hotter in summer due to the moisture in the air.

However, with Arizona’s drier air, you can set your temperature slightly higher in summer and lower in winter and not notice a big change.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, adjust your thermostat to the best temperature for you and your family.

If the ENERGY STAR® recommended setting leaves you feeling warmer than you’d like, adjusting the thermostat a few degrees higher than you normally would can still improve your energy efficiency.

Other Ways To Make Your Air Conditioner More Energy-Efficient

In addition to optimizing your thermostat setting, there are several other ways to maximize your cooling system’s efficiency:

Turn on Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can make your home feel cooler simply by circulating the air in your home.

Ensure the blades rotate counterclockwise in summer to push air down and create a cool breeze.

Install a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats can help save on your energy bills using zoned comfort and programmed schedules to fit your routine.

There’s no need to keep your air conditioner on full blast if you’re away at work or on vacation.

Your smart thermostat can raise the temperature to optimize efficiency while you’re away and lower it to your preferred setting just before you return home.

Schedule Routine Air Conditioning Maintenance

Annual AC maintenance will not only maximize your unit’s life span but also ensure your air conditioner is running effectively and efficiently.

If any components aren’t working as they should, a trained technician can provide the cleaning or repair needed to restore optimal function so your system is running reliably for the height of summer.

Choose Penguin for AC Services in Phoenix

The Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical team is here for all your HVAC needs in the Phoenix Metro area, including 24/7 emergency AC repair and routine air conditioning maintenance.

We offer the Penguin Plan to make keeping up with your home’s maintenance easier. You’ll also receive exclusive benefits, including:

• Free service calls
• Priority scheduling
• A 20% discount on repairs
• A 10% discount on new system installations

Request AC maintenance or repair with Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical by calling (480) 747-6800 today.