You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at the right temp during warm days.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy pros so you can choose the best setting for your family.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Justin.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your interior and outdoor temps, your electrical expenses 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 seems warm, there are approaches you can keep your residence pleasant without having the air conditioner on constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cold air where it should be—inside. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver more insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s because they cool by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm on the surface, try conducting a trial for approximately a week. Get started by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while adhering to the ideas above. You could be astonished at how cool you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner working all day while your house is empty. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electricity costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t effective and often leads to a more expensive AC cost.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your settings in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.
If you need a convenient resolution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that may be unbearable for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cool, due to your clothing and blanket preference.
We suggest trying an equivalent test over a week, setting your temperature higher and slowly turning it down to find the ideal setting for your house. On pleasant nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior option than running the AC.
More Approaches to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather
There are additional methods you can save money on utility bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping AC costs down.
- Book regular air conditioner tune-ups. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running properly and could help it run more efficiently. It could also help extend its life cycle, since it enables techs to pinpoint seemingly insignificant troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
- Switch air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and raise your electricity.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort problems in your home, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep muggy air in its place by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air indoors.
Use Less Energy This Summer with Pepper AC & Heat
If you are looking to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Pepper AC & Heat specialists can provide assistance. Give us a call at 940-202-1184 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling options.
