What temperature should I set my AC when away in summer in Arizona?

Set it around 82-85F while you are away. That is high enough to cut energy use but low enough to protect your home, furniture, and electronics from extreme heat. Do not turn the AC off completely in an Arizona summer.

Why shouldn't I turn my AC off completely when I leave?

Indoor temperatures can climb past 100F, which can warp wood, damage electronics, and let humidity build up. Your AC then has to work much harder to recover, using more energy than it saved.

Does insulation help when I am away?

Yes. Good attic insulation slows how fast heat enters your home, so your AC cycles less to hold the higher setpoint, saving energy whether you are home or away.

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HVAC · Summer energy savings

What Temperature Should You Set Your House When Away in the Summer?

Quick answer: In an Arizona summer, set your thermostat to about 82-85F while you’re away – warm enough to save energy, but cool enough to protect your home, furniture, and electronics. Don’t switch the AC off completely.

Optimize Comfort, Save Energy, and Protect Your Home in Arizona’s Heat

AZ Insulation & HVAC Solutions 2 min read May 21, 2025 ROC# 301682

Set it to

85 – 88 °F

while you’re away in summer

U.S. Dept. of Energy

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 85°F to 88°F when you’re away in the summer. This helps reduce energy usage while still keeping your home from overheating, which can be especially important in the Arizona climate.

If you live in Arizona, you know how brutal the summer heat can get. When you’re away on vacation or just at work during the day, you might wonder: What’s the best temperature to set your thermostat to save energy without damaging your home or belongings?

The Ideal Temperature to Set When You’re Away

However, there are a few things to consider:

Where to land, by situation

Cooler ← → More savings

Pets 78–80° Long trip 85°

Short trip 80–82°

75° 80° 85° 90°

78–80°

Pet Safety

If pets are staying home, aim for 78°F to 80°F to keep them comfortable.

80–82°

Short Trips

For short absences (a day or two), 80°F–82°F works well.

85°

Long Trips

For longer vacations, 85°F is typically safe.

Humidity Control

While Arizona is dry, long-term exposure to high indoor temps can still affect wood furniture, electronics, and indoor plants.

Want to Set It and Forget It? Consider a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats allow you to program temperature settings based on your schedule or even adjust remotely from your phone. They’re perfect for summer getaways and can save up to 10% a year on cooling costs.