Augusta summers can get heated: What temperature should you set your a/c thermostat?

Erica Van Buren, Augusta Chronicle
Save money and energy by setting your air conditioner to 78 degrees, experts with Georgia Power say.
Save money and energy by setting your air conditioner to 78 degrees, experts with Georgia Power say.

Augusta is expected to heat up this week with temperatures sky rocketing up into the high 90s and even triple digits, according to the seven-day forecast.

When it gets this hot, the most appreciated appliance in most households is the air conditioner.

But what is the ideal indoor temperature to escape the heat while keeping your energy use under control? At what temperature should you set your thermostat?

“The recommended temperature for your thermostat is 78 degrees,” said Alicia Brown, a spokesperson for Georgia Power. “We also recommend utilizing ceiling fans, which can help your home feel about 5 degrees cooler while on that temperature setting.”

More: 'Only by God's mercy that I survived': Hajj became a death march for 1,300 in extreme heat

In an effort to stay comfortable and save money, setting the thermostat at 78 degrees while in you’re home is ideal, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

“You can also take advantage of smart thermostats that allow you to program your thermostat during the day and when you're not at home,” said Brown. “This way you're not utilizing as much energy while you're away.”

Brown said the recommended 78 degree temperature setting may not work for every household. And keeping sun out of the home can also help.

“We recommend closing your blinds and curtains during the peak hours of the day to keep the heat out,” said Brown. “I personally like to let natural light in. But closing your blinds during peak hours does make a difference.”

This week's expected temperatures

Tuesday: High 100, Low 74

Wednesday: High 101, Low 76

Thursday: High 98, Low 74

Friday: High 98, Low 74

Saturday: High 97, Low 75

Riding the heatwave

A heatwave is a period where local excess heat accumulates over a sequence of unusually hot days and nights.

The number of people exposed to extreme heat is growing exponentially due to climate change, according to experts with the World Health Organization. Heat-related mortality for people over 65 years of age increased by approximately 85% between 2000–2004 and 2017–2021.

Heatwaves and prolonged excess heat conditions are increasing in frequency, duration, intensity and magnitude due to climate change.

Even low and moderate intensity heat waves can impact the health and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Things to keep in mind before venturing outside

  • Avoid going outside and doing strenuous activity during the hottest time of day.

  • Stay in the shade. Remember that perceived temperatures in the sun can be much higher.

  • Spend two to three hours during the day in a cool place.

A few energy and money saving tips to consider this summer include: Washing full loads of clothes with cold water and avoid over-drying. And cleaning your dryer’s lint trap before every load to increase efficiency.
A few energy and money saving tips to consider this summer include: Washing full loads of clothes with cold water and avoid over-drying. And cleaning your dryer’s lint trap before every load to increase efficiency.

Additional summer money and energy saving tips include:

  • Unplug your electronic devices when not in use, use smart power strips, and consider energy-saving settings on new devices like smart TVs.

  • Wash full loads of clothes with cold water and avoid over-drying.

  • Clean your dryer’s lint trap before every load to increase efficiency.

  • Change standard air filters once a month, or pleated filters once every three months. A clogged filter makes your AC work harder, increases wear on your unit, and uses more energy.

  • Ensure air vents are clear and air can circulate.

  • Reduce the temperature inside your home by using an outdoor grill or smoker instead of indoor ovens and stoves. Also consider the slow cooker or microwave.

“Utilizing these simple tips around your home can make a huge difference,” said Brown. “We know that the energy bill is a huge part of every family's budget. We will continue to share energy efficiency tips and help people to stay cool this summer.”

For more ways to save, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/Save for programs, rebates, and energy saving tips.

This reporting content is supported by a partnership with several funders and Journalism Funding Funding Partners.

Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@gannett.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Setting air conditioner thermostat to 78 degrees can save money, energy

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