What’s the best thermostat setting in GA to stay cool & save money?
Setting your thermostat to 78°F in the dead of a Georgia summer may seem like self-sabotage but experts say this is the absolute sweet spot for staying comfy in your home and saving yourself real money.
Both the U.S. Department of Energy and Georgia Power recommend 78 degrees to ease the strain on the HVAC unit and lower your electricity bill, even if this temperature may sound extreme to some.
How 78°F can save you money
As much as this may sound like the temperature of a terrarium, Georgia Power says every degree you set your thermostat above 78°F can decrease your energy use by 3-4%.
This means if you’re used to keeping your home at 72°F, bumping it just six degrees could save you up to 18% on your cooling costs.
That’s money back in your pocket that could be reallocated to other fun summer activities.
You can go a step farther, by using a programmable or smart thermostat. HVAC experts, Trane Technologies, advise setting the temp higher when you’re away and then programming it to cool down before you get home.
This could cut your cooling bill by up to 10% each year.
Tips and tricks to keep your home cool without lowering your thermostat
Setting your thermostat to 78°F doesn’t mean you have to sweat to death.
Here are some tips from Georgia Power to stay comfy for less:
Ceiling fans: Fans won’t lower the temp in a room, but they make you feel cooler. You can raise your thermostat by up to 4 degrees by using a fan.
Block the sun: Close blinds, curtains or shades during the day to keep out the heat. Energy-efficient windows or solar windows can also reduce heat.
Seal leaks: Use caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors to maintain the temperature. This can save up to 10% on your energy bill.
Limit heat-producing activities: Cook outside to avoid using the oven and run appliances at night.
Maintain your AC unit: Change filters regularly and schedule routine professional service. A clean filter alone can cut energy use by 5-15%.
Upgrade where you can: If you qualify, Georgia Power’s EASE program offers free home upgrades that can lower your energy use even more.
I know 78°F feels a little warm to a lot of Georgia residents, especially when it’s 100°F outside, but it could be worth it when you start to see your electricity bills start to drop.
What do you like to keep your thermostat set to in the summer? Does 78°F feel too warm? Is it worth it?
Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.
This story was originally published June 24, 2025 at 2:57 PM.
