Thermostat Tricks to Survive Florida’s Heat Without Breaking the Bank

Florida’s heat can be relentless, and staying cool without racking up a massive energy bill can feel like a balancing act. Your thermostat plays a crucial role in keeping your home comfortable while managing energy costs. But what are the best thermostat settings for Florida’s climate? Let’s explore how you can stay cool, save money, and keep your air conditioning system running efficiently.

1. Find Your Ideal Temperature

Experts recommend setting your thermostat to 78°F during the summer when you’re home and awake. This temperature strikes the perfect balance between comfort and energy efficiency. For every degree higher you set your thermostat, you can save up to 3% on cooling costs. If 78°F feels a little warm for your liking, try using fans to circulate air and create a cooling breeze.

2. Adjust When You’re Away

When you’re out of the house, raise the thermostat by 7-10 degrees to conserve energy. For example, setting it to 85°F or higher while you’re at work or running errands can result in significant savings. Florida homes warm up quickly, but by using a programmable or smart thermostat, you can schedule the temperature to drop back to 78°F before you return.

3. Take Advantage of Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats are a game-changer for Florida homeowners. They learn your cooling habits and adjust settings automatically to maximize comfort and efficiency. Many models also allow you to control your thermostat remotely via a smartphone, so you can cool your home just in time for your arrival.

4. Use a Nighttime Cooling Strategy

At night, when outdoor temperatures drop slightly, you can experiment with lowering your thermostat to around 75°F for added comfort while you sleep. Just make sure the temperature remains within an energy-efficient range to avoid overloading your AC system.

5. Combat Humidity with Proper Settings

Humidity makes Florida feel even hotter, and your air conditioner helps by removing excess moisture from the air. To prevent your AC from overworking, avoid setting your thermostat too low (below 72°F), as it can cause the system to short cycle and strain its components.

6. Seal Your Cool Air Inside

No matter how smart your thermostat settings are, they won’t be effective if your home isn’t properly insulated. Seal windows, doors, and any air leaks to keep cool air in and hot air out. This ensures your AC system doesn’t have to work overtime to maintain your desired temperature.

Stay Cool and Save More with Lakeland Air Conditioning Company

At Lakeland Air Conditioning Company, we know Florida summers can be tough, but the right thermostat settings can make a world of difference. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a smart thermostat or need thermostat tricks on optimizing your cooling system, our team is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice and services to keep you comfortable year-round!