The Temp Energy Experts Say Is Key To Summer Comfort & Savings

Summer is only about a week old in Minnesota but it's already been hot and sticky. If you've turned on your air conditioning, do you have it set at the magic temperature energy experts suggest?

Outside of maybe money issues, few things can be as contentious in a household here in the North Star State as setting the temperature on your air conditioner or furnace. My wife and I agree on just about all of the main issues in a relationship-- except for setting the temperature on our central air conditioner.

We don't get into big arguments, mind you, but while I'm always trying to nudge the temperature down in the summer, my wife usually tries to keep it warmer. But even her ideal temperature is still way colder than the temperature at which the U.S. Government says you should set your AC.

SEE ALSO: Cooling Off With a Swim? These Lakes Are the Most Snake-Infested in Minnesota

In the summer, if we use our AC, we've agreed to keep it set at 75 degrees. I will admit, though, I sometimes try to nudge it down to 74, or if I'm really warm, maybe 73.But even at 75 degrees, that's still WAAAY cooler than energy experts recommend.

Both the Department of Energy (DOE) and Energy Star, a joint federal program run by the DOE and the Environmental Protection Agency, suggest that you should set your thermostat at the following temperatures during the summer here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes:

78° F when you’re home
85° F when you’re at work or away
82° F when you’re sleeping

Is YOUR thermostat set at 78 degrees during the summer? (Thinkstock)

The DOE says you’ll save about 3 percent on your utility bill for every degree you raise the set temperature. That might be true but, geez, if you're going to set your thermostat at 78 degrees, why even turn your AC on at all, am I right?!?

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Despite those recommendations, though, many of us set our AC much cooler than that. According to a 2021 survey from Consumer Reports, most Americans say they keep their thermostats at around 71 F during the day and night. Folks in the south set theirs the highest (72° F during the day and 71° F at night), and those in the Northeast set it coldest (70° F both day and night).

So, what say you-- what temperature is your AC set at during the summer in Minnesota? And if you want a different way to keep your cool during another sweltering summer here in the Bold North, keep scrolling to check out a Minnesota cabin that features a hidden swimming pool!

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