New York State Residents Furious Over 78-Degree AC Rule

Here in New York State, the summer heat is cranking up! But for many people, it’s not just about the temperature—it’s the humidity. If you’ve spent any time outside lately, you’ve probably heard someone complain that it feels sticky. At my house, it’s my kids saying it every few minutes.

The bigger issue, though, isn’t necessarily what it’s like outside. It’s what happens inside your home or apartment when the temperatures climb.

Growing Up Without Air Conditioning in New York

I remember growing up in a small house in East Aurora, New York, and we didn’t have air conditioning. On hot summer days, the windows would be open, but the shades stayed closed. My mom always believed that if you kept the sun out, you could keep the heat out.

Related: Can Your Boss Force You To Work Without Air Conditioning?

At night, I’d fall asleep listening to the hum of a box fan upstairs. It was supposed to cool the room down, but most of the time it just felt like it was blowing hot air a little faster.

Even the family car didn’t have much air conditioning or, if it did, my parents never seemed interested in turning it on.

Today, things are a little different. Now that I have kids of my own and can afford to run the air conditioner, we use it all the time. Like many couples, though, my wife and I don’t always agree on the thermostat.

I’m perfectly comfortable around 70 degrees. My wife thinks that’s far too cold.

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New York City Urges Residents to Set Thermostats at 78 Degrees

Did you see the latest news out of New York City?

Personally, I think 78 degrees is way too warm for the inside of a house or apartment. Even 75 degrees feels uncomfortable to me, especially when it’s humid outside.

The biggest challenge isn’t getting through the day—it’s trying to get a good night’s sleep. I don’t mind being warm while I’m outside, but when it’s time for bed, I definitely want a cool room.

New Yorkers Are Divided Over the Thermostat Debate

The online reaction has been fascinating.

There’s no question that extreme heat, high humidity, and millions of air conditioners running at the same time put tremendous strain on the power grid. Still, many people believe 78 degrees is simply too warm to be comfortable.

Others argue that, while conserving electricity is important, people shouldn’t be told what temperature to keep their homes or apartments.

It’s one of those debates that everyone seems to have an opinion about.

How Cool Do You Keep Your House During the Summer?

Summer has just begun, and the Independence Day weekend is finally here. There are still plenty of hot days ahead, so now is a great time to figure out what keeps your home comfortable.

If you want to go old school, a box fan in the window can still help move some air. But if you ask me, I’ll happily stick with the air conditioner.

What temperature do you keep your thermostat set at during the summer? It’s a debate that probably isn’t ending anytime soon.