This Is the Best Thermostat Setting for Michigan’s Scorching Summer Days

This week, Michigan will feel the summer heat with temps in the 90s—but thanks to the heat index, it’s going to feel like we’re roasting in the 100s. In fact, we’re currently under a heat advisory from the National Weather Service.

With temps this high over the next couple of days, you might be wondering what the best thermostat setting is to keep your house cool without sending your energy bill through the roof.

Best Thermostat Setting for Hot Michigan Days

To be totally honest, you can set your thermostat at whatever setting works best for you. But if you’re even a little concerned about what that summer bill’s going to look like, you might want to follow what the experts recommend.

According to the Detroit Free Press, both DTE Energy and the U.S. Department of Energy say 78 degrees is the magic number when you're home. It might feel a little warm at first, but every degree you raise the temperature can save you 1% to 3% on your cooling costs.

The U.S. Department of Energy:

You can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day from its normal setting.

Personally, 78 while you're at home sounds high to me. When I’m at work or on vacation, I set the thermostat to 78. But when I’m actually home? 78 is too warm. I find 75 works just fine. I suppose if you’re more concerned about your bill than staying cool, 78 makes sense... but I’d rather not sweat through my couch cushions.

What to Set Your Thermostat To When You're Not Home in the Summer

Experts say that when you're not at home, raise the thermostat a couple of degrees, roughly around 80 is ideal.

Get our free mobile app

I’m not sure if they’re factoring in whether you have pets, but that’s something to consider as well. You definitely don’t want your furry friends cooking while you’re at work. If you’ve got animals at home, you might need to keep it a little cooler than what the experts suggest.