You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a pleasant temperature during summer weather.
But what is the ideal setting, exactly? We go over advice from energy experts so you can choose the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Troy.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your utility bills will be bigger.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds too high, there are methods you can keep your residence pleasant without having the AC on all the time.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cool air where it should be—inside. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to offer more insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they refresh by a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot at first glance, try conducting a test for about a week. Start by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, steadily lower it while using the ideas above. You could be astonished at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the AC running all day while your house is vacant. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electricity expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t productive and usually leads to a more expensive electricity bill.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your temperature under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to increase the set temperature when you take off.
If you need a convenient resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it instinctively changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? About $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and adjust temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cold, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We advise using a similar test over a week, moving your temperature higher and progressively lowering it to pick the right setting for your family. On pleasant nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior idea than operating the AC.
More Methods to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are extra ways you can conserve money on air conditioning bills throughout hot weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping electricity costs down.
- Schedule regular air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment working properly and may help it operate at better efficiency. It could also help prolong its life cycle, since it enables technicians to spot seemingly insignificant troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and raise your utility.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in big comfort problems in your home, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air inside.
Save More Energy This Summer with Edington Heating & Cooling Inc
If you want to save more energy this summer, our Edington Heating & Cooling Inc pros can help. Give us a call at 937-558-9478 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
