You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a pleasant setting during summer weather.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy experts so you can find the best setting for your home.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Norton.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your interior and outdoor temperatures, your utility bills will be bigger.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears warm, there are approaches you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioning on frequently.
Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cool air where it should be—indoors. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without giving up comfort. That’s because they cool with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot initially, try doing a test for a week or so. Start by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively lower it while following the advice above. You could be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner on all day while your residence is vacant. Moving the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical bills, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t effective and typically leads to a more expensive electrical bill.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your settings in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for most families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cool, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We suggest running a similar test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and slowly decreasing it to determine the ideal setting for your residence. On cool nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better solution than running the AC.
More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are additional methods you can save money on energy bills throughout hot weather.
- Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your house more comfortable while keeping cooling costs low.
- Set regular air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating properly and may help it work at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it allows professionals to pinpoint seemingly insignificant troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too much, and raise your cooling.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort issues in your house, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with HCE Systems
If you want to save more energy this summer, our HCE Systems professionals can provide assistance. Give us a call at 276-212-1358 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.