What temperature to set your air conditioner at for summer and in a heat wave

Between the year's first heat wave and the beginning of summer, Delaware residents are left wondering what the best setting for the air condition is for their home.

While you want to remain comfortable during the heat of summer, you also don't want to have high energy bills.

What time does summer 2024 start?: Your guide to the first day of summer 2024

What's the weather forecast for Delaware?

New Castle County is under a heat advisory until 6 a.m. Saturday. Then the area is under an excessive heat watch until 8 p.m. Sunday.

Highs for New Castle County will be in the upper 80s on Thursday and climb into the low to upper 90s throughout the weekend with high humidity levels.

Kent and Sussex counties will also face high temperatures this week as Thursday highs will reach the upper 80s with high humidity. Friday through Sunday will see temperatures climb into the low to upper 90s with high humidity. Both Kent and Sussex counties are under an excessive heat watch Sunday.

What temperature should you set your air conditioner?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, your AC temperature should be set at 78 degrees Fahrenheit for peak comfort and energy efficiency. Then, when you're at work set the temperature seven degrees higher. In the evening drop it down to 78 degrees, but when you go to bed increase the temperature by at least 4 degrees. A programmable thermostat can help schedule the temperature changes.

How to remain cool during extreme heat

According to the Federal Emergency Management Administration, here are some suggestions:

• Add curtains to your windows and keep them closed during the day.

• Limit-heat-producing appliances during the day.

• Cross-ventilate rooms by opening windows at night when temperatures drop.

• Check the weather stripping on doors and windows to keep the cool air in.

• Install ceiling fans or portable fans to help circulate air.

Another way to stay cool during the summer from the Department of Environment and Water in South Australia is to take a shallow bowl or pan of ice and place it in front of a fan for a nice breeze. They also recommend sipping cool drinks, putting a damp cloth on your neck or other pressure points on your body or taking a cold shower.

What's the best temperature to sleep at?

For many people, 78 degrees can feel too warm for comfortable sleep. The ideal sleeping temperature recommended by sleep experts typically ranges from 60 to 67 degrees. This range helps your body maintain a lower core temperature, which is conducive to better sleep quality.

If you find 78 degrees too warm for sleeping, consider these tips to stay cool at night:

• Use fans: A ceiling or portable fan can help circulate air and create a cooling breeze.

• Light bedding: Opt for lightweight, breathable bedding materials like cotton or linen.

• Cool showers: Take a cool shower before bed to lower your body temperature.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help regulate your body temperature.

What time does summer start 2024

According to the National Weather Service, summer arrives at 4:50 p.m. today.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: What temperature to set your air conditioner in a heat wave