What Are the Best Settings for Your Residential HVAC Unit?

If you live along the Texas coast, you know how unpredictable our weather can be. One day it’s 90 degrees with a Gulf breeze, and the next you’re reaching for a sweater because a cool front rolled in overnight. That’s why knowing the best settings for your residential HVAC system isn’t just about comfort—it’s about efficiency, savings, and keeping your home running smoothly year-round.

At Highland AC in Port Aransas, TX, we get this question all the time: “What’s the best temperature to set my thermostat?” The truth is, it depends on the season, your lifestyle, and how energy-conscious you want to be. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some practical coastal-friendly advice.

The Ideal Temperature for Comfort and Efficiency

For most homes, the sweet spot during summer is around 75 to 78 degrees when you’re home and awake. This setting keeps you cool without overworking your air conditioner. When you’re away during the day, bump the thermostat up to about 82 to 84 degrees to save energy. Every degree you raise your thermostat can save roughly three percent on your cooling bill, and in Port Aransas, that adds up fast during those long, hot months.

In winter, the ideal setting is typically 68 to 70 degrees while you’re home and awake. When you’re asleep or away, lowering it to around 65 degrees helps reduce energy use while still keeping your home comfortable.

Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

If you don’t already have one, upgrading to a smart thermostat is one of the best decisions you can make for your HVAC system. These devices let you set schedules or adjust your temperature remotely from your phone. So if you spend weekends fishing or relaxing at the beach and forget to adjust your settings before leaving, your smart thermostat can handle it for you.

Some models even “learn” your habits and automatically fine-tune your HVAC system for maximum efficiency. At Highland AC – Coastal Bend, we install and service a variety of smart thermostat systems and can help you choose one that fits your home perfectly.

Don’t Forget About Fan Settings

Here’s a small detail that makes a big difference: your thermostat’s fan setting. You’ll usually see two options—Auto and On.

• Auto means the fan only runs when your HVAC system is heating or cooling. This saves energy and helps manage humidity.
• On keeps the fan running continuously, which can improve air circulation but may slightly raise your energy use.

For our coastal climate, where humidity is a constant battle, keeping it on Auto is typically the better choice. It allows your system to dehumidify more effectively while maintaining even temperatures.

Manage Humidity Levels

Humidity plays a huge role in comfort along the Gulf Coast. Even if the temperature feels right, high humidity can make your home feel warmer and sticky. Ideally, indoor humidity should stay between 40 and 50 percent. If your home feels damp or muggy, your system might need maintenance—or it may be time to consider a dehumidifier.

Seasonal Adjustments and Maintenance

Your HVAC system works hard all year long, so don’t forget to show it some love. Schedule regular maintenance twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall. This helps ensure your thermostat readings are accurate and your system runs efficiently.

At Highland AC in Port Aransas, our technicians inspect, clean, and fine-tune every component so you can trust your system to perform when you need it most.

The Bottom Line

The best HVAC settings balance comfort and efficiency. Keep your thermostat around 75–78 degrees in summer and 68–70 in winter, use a smart thermostat for easy control, and schedule regular maintenance to keep your system running strong.

Whether you’re at home in Port Aransas year-round or enjoying your beach house on weekends, Highland AC is here to help you stay cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient, no matter what the Texas coast brings your way. If you are in need of HVAC Services in Port Aransas, Rockport or anywhere around the Coastal Bend, please follow the link to learn more.