Let's settle the debate, Iowans: At what temperature do you set your AC thermostat?

It's a simple question, but an age-old debate: At what temperature should the air conditioning be set?

The hot Iowa summer has been upon us, and 97% of the state's households use air conditioning equipment to stay cool, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration . With the heat index in Iowa and Des Moines reaching well over 100 degrees for the end of July, staying inside may be the best way to stay safe.

So what is the temperature sweet spot to keep everyone in your family comfortable? It's time to settle the debate among Iowans.

What do the professionals say about AC temperatures?

MidAmerican recommends setting your thermostat 5 to 8 degrees higher in the summer to reduce electrical usage. It says 78 degrees is a typical setting in the summer if you're looking to save money. Dropping your thermostat to 72 degrees will use about 64% more energy, according to MidAmerican.

More: Dreading the heat and the electricity bill that comes with it? Try these tips.

Similarly, the Department of Energy advises setting the temperature 4 degrees warmer when sleeping and 7 degrees warmer when away from home.

The federal Department of Energy recommends setting the temperature to what you find comfortable and provides humidity control. It reminds people that the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower the overall cooling bill will be.

What temperature do you set your AC to?

Do you follow the expert advice or do you set your AC to a cooler temperature? We want to see what Iowans think. Vote in the poll below:

How to conserve energy during excessive heat in Iowa

Cranking up the air conditioning can put stress on Iowa's electric grid and your own air conditioning unit. Here are a few ideas to conserve energy in your home:

• MidAmerican says residents should close shades and drapes during the day, or plant shade trees and shrubs on the south and west sides of your home to provide natural shade.
• The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that routinely replacing or cleaning filters is the most important maintenance to ensure the efficiency of an air conditioning unit. It recommends cleaning or replacing the filter every month or two during the cooling season.
• The energy department also suggests passing a stiff wire through the unit's drain channels to prevent it from clogging.
• Consider a new thermostat. MidAmerican says smart thermostats can reduce bills by up to 23%. It offers Iowa customers an online marketplace with discounts of up to $100.

Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR .

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Let's settle the debate, Iowans: At what temperature do you set your AC thermostat?