Sonoma County summers can be unpredictable — some days are mild, while others bring triple-digit heat. Finding the right thermostat settings keeps your home comfortable without sending your energy bills through the roof. At Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we help local homeowners balance comfort and efficiency every summer.
The Ideal Summer Thermostat Setting
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home during the summer. This strikes the best balance between comfort and savings. For many families, that temperature feels just right with ceiling fans running to circulate cool air.
Adjusting When You’re Away
You don’t need to keep your home icy cold while you’re gone. Set your thermostat higher — around 82–85°F — when you’re at work or away for the day. By letting the temperature rise just a little, you reduce the strain on your air conditioner and lower your electricity costs.
Nighttime Comfort
If cooler air drifts in from the Russian River Valley or coastal breezes reach Windsor and Healdsburg, you can open windows at night to give your AC a break. Otherwise, aim for 75–78°F while you sleep to stay comfortable without overworking your system.
Benefits of a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats make it easy to manage your home’s comfort:
- Program daily schedules so your home is cooler when you’re there and warmer when you’re away.
- Adjust temperatures from your phone if plans change.
- Track energy use and find new ways to save.
Many Northern California homeowners qualify for BayREN rebates when upgrading to smart thermostats and other efficiency improvements.
Don’t Forget Your Air Filter
Even the best thermostat settings won’t help if your system can’t breathe. Check your AC filter monthly during summer. Dust, pollen, and wildfire smoke can clog filters quickly in Sonoma County, making your air conditioner work harder.
When to Call the Pros
If you notice your AC can’t keep up, is short-cycling, or runs constantly without cooling, it may need a tune-up. A technician can:
- Check refrigerant levels.
- Clean coils and blower components.
- Make sure your thermostat is calibrated correctly.
Scheduling regular AC maintenance helps your system keep up with summer heat while using less energy.
Stay Cool and Save All Summer
Finding the right thermostat setting isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your budget, too. With smart thermostat upgrades, regular AC maintenance, and small adjustments, you can enjoy Sonoma summers without high bills.
At Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we’re here to help with air conditioning service, seasonal tune-ups , and expert advice tailored to local conditions.
Call Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing today to schedule your AC service and stay cool all summer long.