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Americans prefer the AC colder than experts suggest
USA Today • • business
Key Points:
- A heat dome is expected to bring temperatures 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit above average to the Mississippi Valley, mid-Atlantic, and Southeast regions through early September, with highs near 100°F in Raleigh and St. Louis and 90s in cities like Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and DC.
- Heat waves are forecasted for Chicago, Philadelphia, and Raleigh heading into Labor Day weekend, potentially sparking debates over optimal thermostat settings.
- A 2021 Consumer Reports survey found Americans typically set their thermostats around 71°F during the day, with regional variations such as 72°F in the South and 70°F in the Northeast.
- Sleep experts suggest an ideal sleep temperature of 67°F to promote better rest, based on a study involving over 2,000 adults nationwide.
- Energy providers and the Department of Energy recommend setting thermostats near 78°F for energy savings and comfort, but many Americans with central air conditioning prefer cooler settings below 76°F.
