You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right setting during hot days.

But what is the best temperature, exactly? We review ideas from energy experts so you can find the best temp for your loved ones.

Here’s what we advise 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 outside warmth, your electricity costs will be larger.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears hot, there are methods you can keep your house pleasant without having the air conditioner on frequently.

Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps cold air where it should be—indoors. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s because they freshen through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too hot at first glance, try doing a test for approximately a week. Begin by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily lower it while using the suggestions above. You might be shocked at how cool you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

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

When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t effective and typically results in a more expensive cooling expense.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temperature controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free remedy, 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 out. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

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

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for many families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, due to your PJ and blanket preference.

We recommend following a comparable test over a week, moving your temp higher and gradually decreasing it to pinpoint the best temp for your residence. On cool nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better idea than running the air conditioning.

More Ways to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather

There are extra methods you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

  1. Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping utility bills small.
  2. Set regular air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running smoothly and may help it work at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life cycle, since it enables professionals to find small issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and drive up your electricity.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the USA 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”.
  5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort troubles in your house, including hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air indoors.

Use Less 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 specialists can provide assistance. Give us a call at 734-284-1224 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling options.