You shouldn’t need to sacrifice comfort or drain your wallet to keep your home at a refreshing temp during warm days.

But what is the best temperature, exactly? We go over recommendations from energy experts so you can select the best temp for your house.

Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Justin.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a big difference between your indoor and outdoor warmth, your cooling costs will be larger.

These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems hot, there are ways you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioning on constantly.

Keeping windows and blinds down during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—inside. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to provide added insulation and enhanced energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too warm initially, try conducting a test for about a week. Begin by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually lower it while using the tips above. You could be shocked at how cool you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC going all day while your home is vacant. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t effective and typically results in a more expensive electrical bill.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your settings under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and adjust temperature settings from almost anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cold, based on your clothing and blanket preference.

We recommend using an equivalent test over a week, setting your temperature higher and progressively lowering it to select the best temperature for your house. On pleasant nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable option than using the air conditioning.

More Methods to Save Energy This Summer

There are added ways you can spend less money on utility bills throughout the summer.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping energy bills down.
  2. Schedule yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating properly and could help it work at greater efficiency. It may also help prolong its life cycle, since it allows professionals to find little issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too often, and drive up your cooling.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the U.S. 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 need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort problems in your residence, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air indoors.

Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Pepper AC & Heat

If you need to save more energy during warm weather, our Pepper AC & Heat experts can help. Reach us at 940-202-1184 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling options.