Finding the right thermostat settings for a Los Angeles summer matters. It affects how comfortable your home feels and how much you spend on energy. With long heatwaves and dry air, smart temperature settings help your system run better and keep you from overpaying.
This guide breaks down the best thermostat setting for LA homes during hot weather, including when you’re home, away, or asleep. You’ll also learn how a smart thermostat can help you save and why it matters for your comfort and cooling costs.
What’s the Best Thermostat Setting for Summer in Los Angeles?
The best thermostat setting for summer in Los Angeles is 78°F when you’re at home. That might sound a bit warm, but it’s the sweet spot for comfort and savings.
At 78°F, your air conditioning doesn’t work overtime during the worst of the summer heat. Lowering it just a few degrees might seem tempting, but it can bump up your cooling costs by 3–5% per degree. That adds up fast over the months.
Want to feel cooler without changing the thermostat temperature? Turn on a ceiling fan. It helps move the air, making it feel cooler even though the temperature stays the same.
What Temperature Settings Should You Set When You’re Not Home?
When you’re out, set your thermostat temperature to 85°F or higher. This helps you avoid wasting energy while keeping your home from overheating.
If you’re away for work or errands, letting the house warm up a bit won’t hurt. A smart thermostat can automatically adjust settings according to your schedule. That way, it cools your space before you even get back.
Don’t go too high, though. Extreme heat inside can strain your HVAC system in the long run. Try to maintain a temperature difference of around 7°F between home and away to protect your setup and ensure comfort.
Best Thermostat Settings for Sleeping in Summer
The best temperature settings for sleep during summer in LA are between 70–72°F. Cooler air helps your body relax so you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
LA nights can still feel warm, especially in the valleys. If you’re trying to save money, set your thermostat to 74°F and use a fan in your bedroom. This gives you comfort while cutting back on energy.
Using a smart thermostat here works wonders. Set it to lower the temp an hour before bed and raise it again by morning. You’ll sleep well and save while doing it.
How Humidity Affects Temperature Settings in LA
Humidity changes how your body feels the heat. Even in LA’s dry summers, indoor moisture can build up if airflow is blocked.
Good thermostat settings only work if your air feels right. If it’s too humid, even 75°F feels sticky. Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% for comfort.
Use your AC’s auto mode or a dehumidifier to help pull moisture from the air. When humidity is under control, you can set your thermostat temperature a bit higher and still feel good.
This makes your air conditioning more effective and your home feel fresher.
Are Smart Thermostats Worth It in Los Angeles?
A smart thermostat is a great tool for LA summers. It learns your habits, senses when you’re home or away, and automatically adjusts the temperature.
You don’t have to remember to change settings. It does it for you, cutting waste, boosting comfort, and reducing cooling costs by up to 15%.
Plus, you can control it from your phone. Headed home early from work? Open the app and lower the temp so it’s cool when you walk in.
Season Control installs and sets up smart thermostats for homeowners across Greater Los Angeles. It’s a quick upgrade with long-term comfort.
Cooling Tips That Help Your AC Without Lowering the Thermostat Temperature
To get the most out of your thermostat settings, pair them with smart cooling habits. You don’t need to blast the AC all day to stay cool.
Try this:
- Use ceiling fans to feel cooler without lowering the thermostat setting
- Block direct sunlight with curtains between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Run ovens, stoves, and dryers in the evening
- Seal leaks around doors and windows to stop hot air
- Replace filters every month during peak season
- Book a seasonal tune-up with Season Control so your HVAC system runs better
These steps lower strain on your system and help keep your home cooler without wasting energy.
Beat the LA Heat Without Breaking the Bank
So, what should your thermostat settings be in a Los Angeles summer? Here’s your plan:
- 78°F when you’re home
- 85°F when you’re away
- 70–72°F when you’re sleeping
Set it. Forget it. Save money. Combine this with good airflow, smart habits, and a reliable smart thermostat, and you’ll stay cool without the high bills. It also helps your AC keep up when temperature drops hit at night or in coastal areas.
Let Us Help You Stay Cool and Save in LA
Want a cooler home with less stress? Let Season Control help. We’ve been keeping Los Angeles homes comfortable for over 20 years. Call (818) 275-8487 or book a service visit now.
We’ll fine-tune your temperature settings and help cut your cooling costs right away.
FAQs
How cool should my house be if it's 100 outside?
If it’s 100°F outside, your house should still be comfortable at 78°F inside. That 22-degree difference gives your AC room to cool efficiently without overworking. Trying to drop it to 70°F or lower may strain your HVAC system and spike energy bills.
Can I lower my thermostat while I sleep?
Yes, you can lower your thermostat while you sleep. Most folks feel best between 70–72°F at night. If you want to save even more, set it to 74°F and use a fan to stay cool.
Will a smart thermostat save money in the summer?
A smart thermostat will definitely help save money during LA summers. It adjusts the temperature automatically around your schedule and can reduce cooling costs by up to 15%.
How do I keep my home cooler without lowering the AC?
To keep your home cooler without lowering the AC, use ceiling fans, close blinds during the day, seal any air leaks, and get regular tune-ups on your HVAC system.
Is 78 too hot for a house?
No, 78°F isn’t too hot for a house in the summer. In fact, it’s the DOE-recommended temperature for energy efficiency and comfort. If it feels warm, use fans to help circulate air and make the space feel cooler without lowering the thermostat.
