You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a refreshing setting during the summer.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We go over advice from energy professionals so you can determine the best temperature for your house.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Wyandotte.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a big difference between your indoor and exterior warmth, your cooling costs will be greater.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears too high, there are approaches you can keep your residence cool without having the air conditioner running constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to offer more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool by a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm initially, try running a test for about a week. Begin by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively turn it down while following the tips above. You might be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner running all day while your house is unoccupied. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical bills, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t productive and often results in a more expensive AC expense.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temp controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a convenient fix, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be unpleasant for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise trying an equivalent test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and slowly lowering it to choose the ideal temp for your house. On mild nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than running the air conditioner.
More Methods to Save Energy During Warm Weather
There are additional methods you can conserve money on air conditioning bills throughout the summer.
- Buy an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they age. An updated air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping utility bills small.
- Set annual air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and could help it run more efficiently. It could also help prolong its life cycle, since it allows techs to find little problems before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Change air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too much, and drive up your cooling.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has separated over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort issues in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air indoors.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning
If you want to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning professionals can help. Get in touch with us at 734-284-1224 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling options.
