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When summer sets in, we all rely on air conditioning in Pensacola, FL to keep things comfortable indoors. But when the temperature outside hits 95°F with high humidity, some homeowners wonder: “Why can’t I just set the thermostat to 65°F and chill out?” The short answer? Your air conditioner wasn’t designed for that.
At Peaden, we want our customers to understand how their systems work so they can stay cool without overworking their AC—or wasting energy.
Let’s break down the basics of what’s called the “temperature differential” and explain the smartest way to set your thermostat for maximum comfort and efficiency in the Florida heat.
What Is the Temperature Differential?
Your air conditioning system has a limit to how much heat it can remove from the air at once. On average, a properly functioning central AC unit can cool your home to about 15–20° lower than the outside temperature. This is what HVAC professionals refer to as the temperature differential.
So if it’s 95°F outside, the best your air conditioner can reasonably do is cool your indoor air to around 75–80°F. Trying to push it lower than that doesn’t just waste energy—it puts unnecessary strain on your equipment, potentially shortening its lifespan or leading to breakdowns.
Why Can’t My AC Cool the House to 65°F?
We get it—after a long day in Pensacola’s sun and humidity, 65°F might sound refreshing. But cooling your home that low isn’t just difficult for your AC; in most cases, it’s not even possible, especially during the hottest months.
Here’s why:
- AC systems are designed for comfort, not refrigeration. They’re sized based on your home’s square footage and insulation—not to turn your living room into a walk-in cooler.
- Lower thermostat settings don’t speed up cooling. Your system will run continuously trying to reach that low number, often without success.
- Overcooling can cause freezing. Setting the thermostat too low for too long can cause coils to freeze, reducing airflow and damaging your system.
Instead, it’s smarter to focus on realistic, steady cooling that keeps your home comfortable without overloading your air conditioner.
Ideal Thermostat Settings for Comfort and Efficiency
So what’s the sweet spot? The US Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home in the summer. If that sounds a little warm for your liking, here are some other tips from the Peaden Pros:
For Maximum Efficiency
- 78°F while at home
- Raise it to 85°F when away
- Use ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect that helps rooms feel cooler
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automate temperature adjustments
For Comfort in Extreme Heat
- Stay within a 20-degree differential from the outdoor temperature
- If it’s 95°F outside, aim for 75°F inside
- Dress appropriately for the season and close blinds during the day to block out radiant heat
By staying within these ranges, you’ll keep your home cool, your energy bills manageable, and your system running efficiently.
Other Ways to Help Your AC Perform Its Best
Even the best AC system can’t do all the work alone. Here’s how to give your unit a helping hand:
- Keep your filters clean. Dirty filters restrict airflow and make your system work harder.
- Seal leaks and insulate. Make sure your home isn’t losing cool air through gaps or uninsulated areas.
- Use dehumidifiers. High humidity makes the air feel warmer. Reducing moisture helps your AC feel more effective.
- Schedule regular maintenance. Peaden Pros offer expert tune-ups that keep your AC in peak condition and identify small issues before they become big repairs.
If your AC isn’t keeping up or your home feels too warm no matter what you set the thermostat to, the Peaden Pros are here to help.