Finding the right thermostat settings for Texas homes during the summer can make a big difference in comfort, efficiency, and monthly bills. With long stretches of 90 to 100+ degree heat, it’s not just about staying cool—it’s about making smart adjustments that help your AC run effectively without driving up energy costs. At Superior AC & Heat, we understand Texas weather, and we know how to guide homeowners toward better indoor temperature control.
Inconsistent settings can make your system work harder than necessary, leading to higher utility costs and more wear on your HVAC unit. This article will help you understand the ideal thermostat settings, how to manage them day and night, and simple steps that improve cooling performance without sacrificing comfort.
Best thermostat settings for daytime hours
During the heat of the day, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake. While this may feel warmer than you’re used to, it helps balance comfort with efficiency. In Texas homes, the air outside often soars into the triple digits. Setting your thermostat too low (like 70°F) forces your AC system to run nonstop, leading to higher energy usage and strain.
If 78°F feels a bit warm, try setting it a few degrees lower at first, then raising it by one degree every couple of days to let your body adjust. The key is consistency. Wide swings in settings make the system work harder, which burns more electricity and shortens your AC’s life span.
Smart thermostats make this easy by letting you set schedules and make small, timed adjustments throughout the day. They also help track patterns and energy usage, providing feedback you can use to fine-tune your cooling strategy.
Adjusting thermostat settings at night
Many homeowners sleep better in cooler conditions. For Texas homes, nighttime temperatures can still hover in the 80s during summer, so keeping things cool without overworking your system is important. Try setting your thermostat between 72°F and 75°F at night. This range offers comfort while giving your system some relief from daytime operation.
To stay comfortable without lowering the temperature too much, use ceiling fans in bedrooms to help distribute cool air. Fans don’t change the room temperature but help you feel cooler through air movement, allowing you to set the thermostat a little higher.
Close curtains or blinds in east- and west-facing rooms during the evening to block out residual heat. This helps your system maintain consistent cooling throughout the night without sudden spikes.
Best settings when you’re away from home
When your home is empty during the day—for work, errands, or vacation—raising the thermostat to 85°F is an efficient move. This reduces energy usage significantly while still protecting indoor air quality and preventing heat damage to electronics or furnishings.
If you’re only gone for a few hours, 82°F is a safe bet that avoids big temperature swings. A programmable or smart thermostat makes it easy to automatically shift to these higher settings and return to a cooler temperature just before you arrive back home.
Some modern smart thermostats also have geofencing features that detect when you leave and return, adjusting settings accordingly for maximum efficiency and comfort.
Tips to improve cooling efficiency
Even the best thermostat settings won’t work well if your system is under strain. Here are a few additional tips to boost performance and reduce costs:
- Replace HVAC filters every 30–60 days during summer
- Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent cool air loss
- Keep interior doors open to promote even airflow
- Schedule an AC tune-up with Superior AC & Heat before summer begins
- Install a smart thermostat for precision control and usage tracking
Routine maintenance plays a major role in helping your system maintain set temperatures without unnecessary strain. An annual checkup ensures your system is charged with refrigerant, your coils are clean, and all components are working at peak efficiency.
Why the right settings matter in Texas
Texas summers are long, intense, and unrelenting. Without smart temperature management, your HVAC system can become overworked and inefficient. The right thermostat settings help you:
- Lower your energy bill without sacrificing comfort
- Extend the life of your HVAC system
- Maintain healthier indoor air quality
- Avoid emergency repairs during peak heat
Homes that use consistent temperature management and regular system care see lower annual maintenance costs and better performance in extreme conditions. It’s not just about temperature—it’s about protecting your comfort and your investment.
Get the guidance your home needs
When you need expert help with thermostat programming, HVAC maintenance, or cooling advice for your home, Superior AC & Heat is here to help. We’ve worked with Texas families for decades, helping them stay cool, safe, and energy-efficient all year long.
Our team can install programmable and smart thermostats, tune your system for top performance, and offer personalized cooling strategies based on your home’s layout and usage habits. Whether you’re trying to lower bills or get more consistent comfort from room to room, we’re ready to help.
Call Superior AC & Heat today and let us take the guesswork out of Texas summer cooling.
