Kentucky summers bring heat, humidity, and rising energy bills. If your AC is working overtime, your thermostat settings could be the reason your cooling costs keep climbing. The good news is that small adjustments can make a big difference. By using the best thermostat settings for your home and lifestyle, you can stay comfortable while saving money on cooling bills all season long.
Below are three smart thermostat strategies designed specifically for Kentucky’s warm, humid climate.
1. Set Your Thermostat to 78°F When You’re Home
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F during the summer when you are at home. This temperature strikes a balance between comfort and efficiency, especially in humid regions like Kentucky.
At first, 78°F might feel a little warm if you are used to lower settings. However, pairing this temperature with ceiling fans or proper airflow can make your home feel cooler without forcing your AC to work harder.
Why this works:
- Every degree you raise your thermostat can reduce cooling costs by up to 3 percent
- Your AC runs less frequently, reducing wear and tear
- Humidity control improves when your system is not constantly cycling
If you have a smart thermostat for AC, you can easily maintain this setting while optimizing airflow and humidity levels throughout the day.
2. Raise the Temperature When You’re Away
One of the easiest ways to cut energy costs is to avoid cooling an empty house. When you are at work or out running errands, increase your thermostat setting by 7 to 10 degrees. For most Kentucky homeowners, this means setting your thermostat between 85°F and 88°F while away.
Key benefits of this include:
- Significant reduction in energy usage during peak daytime hours
- Lower strain on your cooling system
- Immediate savings on monthly utility bills
A programmable or smart thermostat makes this effortless. With programmable thermostat installation, you can create a schedule that automatically adjusts temperatures based on your routine. Even better, many smart thermostats allow remote control from your phone, so you can cool your home before you arrive.
3. Adjust for Sleep Comfort Without Overcooling
Sleeping in the heat can be uncomfortable, but dropping your thermostat too low at night can quickly drive up costs. Instead, aim for a moderate adjustment. A good nighttime setting for Kentucky summers is around 74°F to 76°F. To stay comfortable while staying efficient, use breathable bedding and lightweight sheets, run ceiling fans to improve air circulation, and close blinds or curtains to reduce heat gain during the day.
If your home has a smart thermostat for AC, you can program a gradual temperature drop in the evening and a slight increase in the early morning. This prevents unnecessary cooling when it is not needed.
Bonus Tip: Upgrade to a Smart or Programmable Thermostat
If you are still manually adjusting your thermostat, you may be missing out on easy savings. Upgrading to a programmable or smart system is one of the simplest ways to improve efficiency.
These systems automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule, helping reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort. Many models also provide energy usage tracking and insights, giving you a clearer picture of how to optimize your cooling habits. With remote access from your smartphone, you can make adjustments anytime, anywhere, and better manage humidity levels during Kentucky’s hot, humid summers.
Professional programmable thermostat installation ensures your system is set up correctly and optimized for your HVAC equipment, making this small upgrade a smart step toward long term savings and improved comfort.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Savings
Finding the best thermostat settings for your home does not require major sacrifices. By setting your thermostat to 78°F when home, increasing it while away, and making smart nighttime adjustments, you can stay comfortable while saving money on cooling bills throughout the Kentucky summer.
If you are ready to take control of your home comfort, Air Support Heating and Cooling can help. Whether you are interested in upgrading to a smart thermostat for AC or need expert programmable thermostat installation, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your service and start saving this summer.