What Temperature Should You Set Your AC to in Summer? A Minnesota Comfort Guide

If you're sweating through July in Minnesota and eyeing that thermostat, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we hear is: “What temperature should I set my air conditioner to during summer?”
The answer, backed by experts from Southern Living, Real Simple, and the U.S. Department of Energy?
Set your thermostat to 78°F when you're home.

Why 78°F? It might feel warmer than you're used to, but here’s why it works:

• Energy efficiency: 78°F balances comfort with savings.
• Lower strain on your system: Cranking the AC down to 68°F doesn't cool faster—it just makes your unit run longer.
• Improved durability: Longer runtimes lead to more wear and tear, especially during humid Minnesota heatwaves.
• Cost savings: For every degree above 72°F, you save up to 3% on your cooling bill.

Does Lowering the Thermostat Cool Faster? Short answer: Nope.
Your AC runs at a constant speed—it’s not like a gas pedal. Setting it to 65°F won’t chill the house any quicker than 72°F. It’ll just run longer, use more energy, and increase the risk of:

• Frozen coils
• Blower motor burnout
• Sky-high utility bills

So if your home feels too warm even at 78°F, the issue might be insulation, dirty filters, or poor ductwork—not the thermostat setting.

Tips for Staying Cool Without Cranking the AC

• Use ceiling fans to circulate air—just remember to turn them off when you leave the room.
• Close blinds and curtains during peak sun hours.
• Schedule maintenance in spring to boost AC performance.
• Use a smart thermostat to auto-adjust when you're not home.

Bonus Tip: Set It and Forget ItResist the urge to keep adjusting the temperature up and down all day. It’s better for your system and your wallet to set a target temp and let it work steadily. Need help programming a smart thermostat or not sure if your system can handle the heat? Our local techs can walk you through your setup—no pressure, just honest help.

Comfort That Fits Minnesota Homes
At Air Comfort, we serve homes across Andover, Brooklyn Park, Foley, and beyond. We know every home—and every family—is different, and we help you find that comfort sweet spot without overcooling or overspending.