local
This air conditioning strategy is the sweet spot for saving energy and money, experts say
By Kiki Sideris And Isabella O'Malley, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 2, 2026
· 5 min read
Having air conditioning at home is a luxury that keeps people comfortable during the hottest months of the year, and it’s debated whether the AC should stay blasting or be turned off when people head to work during the day.Some swear that turning off the AC when they’re gone for a few hours is th...
Key takeaway Three experts interviewed by The Associated Press agreed that setting the thermostat a few degrees higher than normal while you’re away is generally the best way to balance energy efficiency against comfort and humidity.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
In San Antonio 's sweltering summers, finding the right balance between comfort and energy efficiency is crucial. For residents, setting the thermostat a few degrees higher while away from home can be a practical approach, considering the city's humid subtropical climate. This strategy not only helps reduce energy consumption but also mitigates the risk of mold growth, which can be a significant concern in San Antonio's humid environment. According to experts, adjusting the thermostat by 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for eight hours a day can lead to savings of up to 10% on heating and cooling costs annually. As San Antonio continues to grow and develop, adopting energy-efficient practices like this can have a positive impact on the community's overall energy consumption and help residents save on their utility bills. By making small adjustments to their air conditioning habits, San Antonio residents can stay cool while also being mindful of their energy usage.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 2, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Having air conditioning at home is a luxury that keeps people comfortable during the hottest months of the year, and it’s debated whether the AC should stay blasting or be turned off when people head to work during the day.Some swear that turning off the AC when they’re gone for a few hours is th...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 2, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Kiki Sideris And Isabella O'Malley, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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