What Temperature Should I Run My NJ Air Conditioning?

When summer hits, you want your home to feel like a cool refuge without burning through your savings. But what’s the right temperature to run your Woodbridge air conditioning at? Is there a sweet spot between comfort, cost, and efficiency?

Let’s break it down.

The Magic Number: 78°F (And Why It Works)

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 78 degrees Fahrenheit is the recommended thermostat setting during summer months when you’re home. It strikes a balance between staying comfortable and not overloading your energy bill or your air conditioner.

Not everyone finds 78 degrees perfect. But before you bump your thermostat down to 70, consider this: each degree you lower it below 78 can increase your cooling costs by roughly 3–5%.

That adds up quickly, especially during multi-day heatwaves in Central Jersey.

Tip: When you’re away from home, bump the thermostat up to 85°F. If you’re sleeping, 82°F often works well, especially with a ceiling fan running.

Want more control? Programmable thermostats or smart thermostats can automate all this for you.

Is 72 Too Cold? It Depends

Everyone has their “comfort zone,” and for many, it lives around 70–72 degrees. But is that actually necessary?

If your goal is instant comfort, 72 can feel great. But if you’re thinking long-term—like lower energy bills and a longer-lasting HVAC system—running your AC at 72 all day, every day, is working against you.

Cooling your home from 90 to 72 takes a lot more energy than cooling it to 78. And that extra strain can increase wear on your system, potentially leading to breakdowns or the need for AC repair in Woodbridge, NJ down the road.

How to Stay Comfortable—Even at Higher Temperatures

If 78 still feels too warm, try combining it with these techniques to make your home feel cooler without lowering the thermostat:

• Use ceiling fans: They don’t lower the room’s temperature, but they make you feel cooler by increasing evaporation from your skin.
• Close blinds during the day: Especially on sun-facing windows, to reduce solar heat gain.
• Run a dehumidifier: New Jersey summers can get muggy. Removing moisture from the air makes it feel cooler, even if the temperature stays the same.
• Seal air leaks and insulate: If cold air is escaping (or hot air is sneaking in), your AC has to work overtime. Keep your home tight.

Want help optimizing your setup? Our team can recommend improvements during a Woodbridge air conditioner maintenance visit.

What About When It’s Over 100 Degrees Outside?

Even on scorching days, resist the urge to crank the AC down to 68. Your system will struggle to reach that number and waste energy trying. In extreme heat, 78°F is still your best bet for balancing comfort with performance.

If your AC can’t keep up, it might be time to check for issues or consider an upgrade. You can start by scheduling an AC service with NJ Pipe Doctor. We’ll help you figure out whether it’s time for a repair or replacement.

Why Running Your AC Efficiently Matters

Cooling systems are one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. That’s not just bad for your monthly bills—it can shorten the lifespan of your unit if it’s constantly overworking.

Here’s what you can do to keep your system running efficiently:

• Schedule annual tune-ups: Routine AC maintenance ensures your unit is clean, lubricated, and running like it should.
• Change your filters regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder.
• Use a smart thermostat: Automate temperature adjustments based on your schedule.
• Upgrade old systems: If your AC is over 12–15 years old, newer models offer much better energy efficiency and may even pay for themselves over time.
  

The Role of Thermostats

Your thermostat is your AC’s command center. If it’s outdated, you’re probably not getting the performance or control you need.

Modern thermostats can help you:

• Set cooling schedules for different times of day
• Adjust remotely using a phone app
• Get alerts if your system isn’t running efficiently

This is one of the easiest and most impactful upgrades you can make to your HVAC system.

Ready to Dial In Your Comfort?

There’s no one-size-fits-all number—but there is a smarter way to stay cool in Woodbridge. Aim for 78°F when home, 85°F when away, and 82°F when sleeping. Then, support those temps with good habits, simple upgrades, and regular AC maintenance.

Not sure if your system is up to the task this summer?

Whether you need a tune-up, a repair, or a whole new unit, NJ Pipe Doctor has your back. We’re here to keep your home cool, comfortable, and efficient. Book your AC service now!