When the weather is hot, there’s nothing like coming home to a cool house. You can ensure your house is as cool as possible by setting your air conditioner to the right temperature.

For example, SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio is a rating given to air conditioners. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the air conditioner is. So, if you want to be energy efficient and save money on your electricity bill, choose an air conditioner with a high SEER rating.

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Your HVAC System

Here are some tips to help you choose the best setting for your AC unit to save money.

1) Set Your Air Conditioner to 78°F

The air conditioner setting that is most energy efficient and will help you save the most money is 78°F. Setting your air conditioner to this temperature will keep your home cool without too much energy.

If you want your home to be cooler, you can always set the temperature lower. However, know that for every degree you lower the temperature, you will use about six percent more energy. So, if saving money is your goal, 78°F is the best energy-efficient setting for your air conditioner.

In addition to saving money, setting your air conditioner to 78°F can also help reduce your carbon footprint. The lower the temperature of your air conditioner, the more energy it will use. And, the more energy your air conditioner uses, the more greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere.

2) Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat will help you save money on your energy bill and keep your home comfortable. You can set it to lower the temperature when you are away or asleep and raise the temperature when you are home and awake.

According to EPA, through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.

Some unique features of this thermostat are:

• You can program it to adjust the temperature based on your schedule automatically
• It has a large, easy-to-read display
• You can control it remotely with your smartphone or computer
• It is very energy-efficient

3) Ensure Regular Maintenance

Another way to ensure your AC is running efficiently is to get it serviced regularly. It includes a yearly tune-up as well as changing the air filter monthly.

A professional service will check for:

• Leaks in the ductwork
• Proper refrigerant charge
• Debris in the outdoor unit
• Worn or frayed belts
• Dirty coils

Regular maintenance will not only keep the AC running smoothly, but it can also extend its lifespan. Some manufacturers require regular maintenance as part of their warranty agreement.

Moncrief is a leading HVAC company in Atlanta. We’re here to help you get the most out of your air conditioner so you can stay cool all summer long.