The Most Expensive AC Setting to Use During a Heat Wave, Experts Say
Experts agree: this one thermostat setting is draining wallets during heat waves—here’s the fix
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The brief
Multiple local and national outlets—including WGN-TV, AOL.com, and *The Coloradoan*—cite this as the optimal balance between comfort and energy savings, with some noting smart thermostats can further reduce costs through automation and scheduling. Outlets like *marthastewart.com* and *One Green Planet* also promote smart thermostats as long-term investments, though no specific models are endorsed beyond general features like remote control and learning algorithms.
Watch for follow-up guidance on **behavioral strategies** (e.g., closing blinds, using fans) and potential **regional variations** in recommendations, as Arizona’s extreme heat may warrant lower thresholds than milder climates. Coverage does not yet specify utility incentives or government programs tied to thermostat settings.
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Quick answers
What temperature is considered the most expensive to run an AC?
Experts consistently cite **72°F (22°C) or lower** as the most costly setting during heat waves, as it forces the AC to work harder to maintain lower temperatures.
Do smart thermostats guarantee savings?
Coverage suggests they *can* reduce costs through automation and learning user habits, but savings depend on proper setup and usage—not all models are equal.
Are there regional differences in recommended settings?
Yes. While **78°F** is a general guideline, outlets like AOL.com note Arizona’s extreme heat may require adjustments (e.g., **76-78°F**), though specifics vary by coverage.
Coverage (13)
- How to adjust your A/C temperature to help save money WGN-TV · 1d ago
- How to adjust your A/C temperature to help save money WFLA · 1d ago
- How to adjust your A/C temperature to help save money WKBN.com · 1d ago
- How to Keep Your Home Cool and Costs Down Flagstaff Business News · 1d ago
- How to adjust your A/C temperature to help save money WRIC ABC 8News · 1d ago
- How to keep energy bills down during the upcoming heatwave WSAW · 1d ago
- The Ideal Thermostat Setting To Make It Through The Brutal Arizona Heat AOL.com · 1d ago
- How to adjust your A/C temperature to help save money WAVY.com · 1d ago
- Here's how to set your thermostat to save money KUSA.com · 1d ago
- The Thermostat That Pays for Itself: Best Smart Thermostats for 2026 One Green Planet · 1d ago
- The Thermostat Setting an HVAC Pro Actually Uses While Sleeping for Better Comfort and Efficiency AOL.com · 1d ago
- Why experts recommend setting your thermostat to 78 degrees in summer The Coloradoan · 1d ago
- The Most Expensive AC Setting to Use During a Heat Wave, Experts Say marthastewart.com · 1d ago
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