Is Your Edmond Home AC Really Keeping Up?

Oklahoma summers aren't just hot, they're relentless. And if you’ve ever wondered whether your air conditioner is truly holding its own, you’re not alone. For Edmond homeowners, it’s more than just comfort. Staying cool safely, affordably, and in line with the ASHRAE cooling standards can make a serious difference in energy bills, health, and peace of mind.

Frustrated Edmond homeowner with broken AC

What Are ASHRAE Standards and Why Do They Matter?

ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) sets widely used benchmarks for indoor comfort and HVAC performance. For summer months, the standard recommends an indoor temperature between 73°F and 79°F, with relative humidity between 30% and 60%.

These aren't just numbers. They define the temperature range where most people feel comfortable while also minimizing mold growth, system strain, and sky-high utility bills.

Did you know that your AC is typically designed to cool your home about 20°F below outdoor temperatures? That means if it’s 100°F outside — a normal heatwave in Edmond — 78°F indoors is actually ideal and within design expectations.

Common Questions Edmond Residents Ask

How cold should my house get during summer?
- Realistically, your AC can maintain indoor temps about 20 degrees cooler than the outside air. So during a 98–100°F day, hitting 78°F inside is normal and healthy. Trying to force 70°F in those conditions can overwork your system and spike your energy use.
What’s the ideal thermostat setting for both comfort and energy savings?
- Experts, including energy.gov, recommend setting your thermostat to 78°F when you're home and awake. You can raise it a few degrees when you're away to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
Why is my house humid even when the AC is running?
- If your humidity stays above 60%, your AC may be short-cycling or undersized. Edmond homes especially need systems that can both cool and dehumidify effectively, especially on muggy afternoons.
What if my AC runs all day and still can’t keep up?
- That might not mean it's broken — it could be working exactly as designed. But if it's struggling to maintain 78–80°F indoors, even when well-maintained, it might be time for a Manual J load calculation from a professional.

Local HVAC technician working on system in Edmond

What Makes Edmond Homes Unique?

Here in Edmond, extreme summer temperatures often reach 100°F or more. Recent climate data shows that Oklahoma’s "design day" temperatures have increased, putting extra strain on aging HVAC systems.

City building codes now require Manual J and Manual S calculations for new installs — ensuring the unit is sized specifically for your home. And local utility companies like Edmond Electric offer rebates for installing energy-efficient systems that exceed ASHRAE and federal standards.

Mistake to avoid? Thinking an older AC unit designed for a cooler climate will still work optimally today. Your system might be outdated for current climate conditions.