Texas HVAC: Are You Sleeping Too Cold?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 16, 2026

Are you one of those Texans who turns their AC down to arctic levels the moment the sun dips below the horizon? You’re not alone. But that nightly quest for icy slumber might be doing more harm than good, especially in our dry Texas climate.

Let’s talk about the Texas AC paradox: we crave the cold, but our bodies might be paying the price.

Many Texans, particularly in cities like Lubbock or El Paso where humidity is perpetually low, crank their AC down to the low 70s, or even the 60s, at night. This creates a desert-like environment inside their homes, exacerbating the already dry air.

Is this nightly freeze really helping you sleep better? The answer is likely no.

While a cooler room can promote sleep, there’s a sweet spot. Most sleep experts recommend a bedroom temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Going below that, especially in a dry climate, can disrupt your sleep cycle.

Why? Your body temperature naturally drops as you prepare for sleep. An excessively cold room can interfere with this natural process, causing you to toss and turn as your body struggles to regulate its temperature.

Furthermore, that super-dry air is wreaking havoc on your respiratory system.

Think about it: dry air pulls moisture from your skin and mucous membranes. This can lead to a dry throat, nasal congestion, and even nosebleeds. For those with asthma or allergies, common in areas like Houston and Dallas due to high pollen counts, this can trigger attacks and further disrupt sleep.

The constant dryness can also irritate your sinuses, making you more susceptible to respiratory infections. Imagine waking up in Amarillo with a scratchy throat and a stuffy nose – not exactly the start to a productive day.

So, what’s a heat-averse Texan to do? Finding the right balance is key.

First, experiment with your thermostat. Try raising the temperature a degree or two each night until you find a comfortable setting that doesn’t leave you shivering. A good starting point is 70-72°F.

Next, consider investing in a humidifier. A small humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture back into the air, alleviating dryness and preventing respiratory irritation. This is especially crucial in West Texas cities like Midland and Odessa.

But what about those sky-high energy bills? Blasting the AC all night is expensive.

Here are some energy-efficient alternatives:

• Fans: A ceiling fan or a strategically placed floor fan can circulate air and create a cooling breeze without significantly impacting your energy consumption.
• Breathable Bedding: Opt for cotton or linen sheets, which are more breathable than synthetic fabrics. These materials allow air to circulate, keeping you cooler and preventing overheating.
• Window Treatments: Blackout curtains or shades can block out sunlight during the day, preventing your home from heating up in the first place. This is particularly important in South Texas cities like San Antonio and Corpus Christi, where the sun beats down relentlessly.
• Home Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Consider adding insulation to your attic and walls to improve energy efficiency. Many older homes in historic districts like Galveston lack adequate insulation.
• Smart Thermostats: These devices learn your preferences and automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, saving you energy and money.

Let’s talk about some common mistakes Texans make when trying to cool their homes:

• Closing Vents in Unused Rooms: This actually increases pressure on your HVAC system, making it work harder and potentially shortening its lifespan.
• Ignoring Air Filter Maintenance: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC unit to work harder and less efficiently. Replace your air filter every 1-3 months.
• Not Sealing Windows and Doors: Drafts can let in hot air, negating the effects of your AC. Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors with weather stripping or caulk.

Consider the case of Maria, a resident of Austin. She used to crank her AC down to 68°F every night, resulting in a hefty energy bill and frequent bouts of nasal congestion. After implementing the strategies above – raising her thermostat to 72°F, using a humidifier, and switching to cotton sheets – she noticed a significant improvement in her sleep quality and a reduction in her energy costs.

Another example is David, who lives in a poorly insulated older home in Fort Worth. He invested in adding insulation to his attic and sealing his windows, which dramatically reduced his reliance on the AC and improved his overall comfort.

The key takeaway is that finding the ideal sleep temperature is a personal journey. What works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different strategies and pay attention to your body’s signals.

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that colder is always better. In the dry Texas climate, a slightly warmer, more humid environment might be the key to a better night’s sleep and a healthier respiratory system.

So, before you reach for the thermostat tonight, consider the potential consequences of that arctic blast. Your body (and your wallet) will thank you.