Summer electric bills climb fast once the outdoor temperature pushes past 90 degrees, as your air conditioner works harder to keep up. How much of that increase actually hits your wallet depends largely on where you set the thermostat. Set it too low and the system runs nonstop; set it too high and the house never feels cool. We get asked what number actually works during thermostat installation in Riverside, CA.
The Recommended Summer Setting
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends 78°F when you’re home and awake, then raising it several degrees higher when the house is empty or everyone’s asleep. Every degree lower than 78°F can add roughly 3% to your cooling costs, according to Energy.gov’s guidance on home energy savings. This is where a smart thermostat service pays off. We install systems that learn your daily routine and adjust the temperature automatically, so you get comfort when you’re home and savings when you’re not, without touching a dial yourself.
Why the Right Number Still Feels Different Room to Room
Even with the setting dialed in correctly, some rooms stay warmer than others. Sun exposure, poor attic insulation, and blocked vents all throw off how evenly cool air spreads through your home. A single thermostat reading rarely tells the whole story, especially in older Riverside homes with ductwork that wasn’t sized for today’s cooling loads.
Signs Your Thermostat Might Be Working Against You
A few warning signs mean your thermostat needs a closer look before summer heat pushes it past its limit:
- The display temperature doesn’t match how the room actually feels
- Your AC turns on and off in short bursts throughout the day
- Certain rooms stay warm no matter what number you set
- The system runs constantly but never reaches the target reading
When any of these show up, our thermostat troubleshooting service checks wiring connections, sensor placement, and calibration to find out why the numbers and the comfort don’t line up.
Small Adjustments That Add Up
Pairing your thermostat setting with ceiling fans, closed blinds during peak sun hours, and sealed door gaps lets your system hold 78°F without straining. These habits work alongside your equipment instead of forcing it to compensate for heat gain the home lets back in.
Common Thermostat Questions We Hear Around Riverside
Is 78°F really enough to stay comfortable?
Most households adjust within a few days, especially when paired with a fan for airflow.
Should I turn my AC off during the day instead?
No. Raising the setting by a few degrees uses less energy than forcing your system to cool the house back down from scratch later.
Can a smart thermostat work with an older AC unit?
In most cases, yes. Compatibility depends on your system’s wiring, which we check during installation.
How often should a thermostat be recalibrated?
Roughly once a year, or sooner if you notice temperature readings drifting from actual room comfort.
Let’s Get Your Home Set Right for Summer
Getting your thermostat setting right shouldn’t rest on guesswork, and it doesn’t have to. As a family-owned, faith-based company serving Riverside, our team backs every recommendation with honest, transparent advice instead of a sales pitch. Whether you need a new smart thermostat installed, a diagnostic check on your current system, or a technician who shows up fast and treats your home like part of the community, we’re here for it.
Contact New Age Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. today to schedule your service, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.
