Minnesota experts recommend 78°F thermostat setting for summer energy savings

The U.S. Department of Energy and the Energy Star program advise setting home air‑conditioners to 78 °F when occupants are present, 85 °F when away, and 82 °F while sleeping during the summer. Raising the thermostat by one degree can cut utility bills by roughly 3 percent.

A 2021 Consumer Reports survey shows most Americans keep their thermostats around 71 °F, but many Minnesota households run cooler. Local residents typically maintain their AC at about 74 °F, which is still lower than the federal recommendation. Adjusting to the suggested temperatures could help Minnesotans reduce energy use amid ongoing hot and humid weather.