One of the questions we get the most during Louisiana’s hot months is: what temperature to set air conditioner in summer months? And honestly, it makes sense. When the heat kicks in here in Denham Springs, finding the sweet spot between comfort and efficiency gets a little tricky.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But after working on hundreds of systems around here, we’ve seen what works—and what really doesn’t. So, whether you’re trying to cut down on your energy bill or just want to stay cool without freezing out the whole house, we’ve got some helpful tips.
What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner in Summer for Comfort? ✅
Let’s start with the big one—comfort. Most folks around here feel good when the thermostat is set somewhere between 74°F and 78°F during the day. That gives you a nice balance: the house stays cool, but your AC doesn’t have to run constantly.
Personally, I tell our customers to try 76°F first. If that feels too warm, go down a degree. If it feels chilly, bump it up. Small changes make a big difference—and each degree you raise the temp can save a few bucks on your energy bill.
And here in Denham Springs, where the heat comes with a heavy dose of humidity, keeping the AC running smartly really matters.
Nighttime? Drop It a Bit
Sleep is another story. If you’re like most people, you probably sleep better in a slightly cooler room. We get asked what temperature to set an air conditioner in the summer at night all the time, especially when people are trying to sleep comfortably without waking up freezing.
Most people feel good with the thermostat set between 72°F and 74°F at night. That cooler air helps you sleep better, and the AC doesn’t have to fight as hard as it does in the middle of the day. If you use a ceiling fan, you might even be able to keep it at 75°F and still feel just right.
What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner in Summer When You’re Not Home? ✅
Here’s an easy way to save on cooling: adjust the temp when no one’s home. If you’re heading out for work, errands, or even a weekend trip, don’t just turn the AC off. In our Denham Springs humidity, that can lead to moisture issues—and you definitely don’t want that.
Instead, set your thermostat around 80°F while you’re away. That keeps the air moving, which helps with humidity control, and it keeps your AC from running more than it needs to. It’s one of the simplest ways to lower your bill without sacrificing comfort.
Smart Thermostats Make It Easier
If you don’t love the idea of adjusting your thermostat all the time, a smart thermostat is a great option. We install them all the time here at Summers Comfort Heating & Air, and they make a big difference.
You can set schedules, adjust temps remotely, and even get energy usage tips. A lot of our customers say it’s one of their favorite upgrades—and it pays off pretty fast, too.
Humidity: The Part Most People Forget About
When you’re figuring out what temperature to set your air conditioner in the summer, don’t forget how much the humidity changes things. In south Louisiana, it can feel like a sauna outside even when the temp isn’t sky-high.
High humidity makes your house feel warmer, even if your thermostat says otherwise. That’s why your AC needs to do more than cool—it needs to pull moisture out of the air, too.
That’s where regular maintenance really comes in. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air, we tune up systems all over Denham Springs, Baton Rouge, and the surrounding areas to make sure they’re removing moisture efficiently. A clean system with the right refrigerant levels handles humidity way better—and keeps your home way more comfortable.
Want to Save Money and Stay Cool? ✅
Here’s the balance we usually recommend:
Set it around 76°F when you’re home during the day
Drop it to 72°F–74°F at night if needed
Raise it to 80°F when you’re gone
Pair that with ceiling fans and regular maintenance, and you’re in great shape for summer in Denham Springs. These small habits add up to real savings—without making your home uncomfortable.
Still Wondering What Temperature to Set Air Conditioner in Summer? ✅
So, what temperature should you set your air conditioner in the summer? There’s no perfect answer—but with a few simple guidelines and the right system setup, you can make your home feel great all season long.
If your AC just isn’t keeping up like it used to, or you’re seeing spikes in your energy bill, we’re here to help. At Summers Comfort Heating & Air, we serve homeowners across Denham Springs, Walker, Prairieville, and Baton Rouge—and we’d be happy to take a look.
Give us a call, and we’ll help you dial in the right settings, fix anything that’s underperforming, and make sure your summer is cool, comfortable, and stress-free.
