You shouldn’t need to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant temp during summer weather.

But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy experts so you can determine the best temp for your loved ones.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your indoor and outside temps, your AC 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 hot, there are ways you can keep your house cool without having the AC running constantly.

Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—inside. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver more insulation and better energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they refresh by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too hot at first glance, try running a test for about a week. Begin by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively decrease it while following the advice above. You could be amazed at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning working all day while your residence is empty. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t productive and usually produces a bigger electrical expense.

A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temperature controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you take off.

If you need a handy fix, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from just about anywhere.

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

We suggest using a comparable test over a week, setting your temp higher and slowly turning it down to pick the right setting for your house. On pleasant nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than operating the air conditioner.

More Methods to Save Energy During Warm Weather

There are additional approaches you can spend less money on energy bills throughout hot weather.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping AC costs small.
  2. Set yearly air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running properly and could help it operate at greater efficiency. It could also help extend its life span, since it helps professionals to discover seemingly insignificant issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and drive up your electrical.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort issues in your home, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air in its place by closing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cold air within your home.

Conserve More Energy During Hot Weather with North Mechanical Heating and Cooling

If you are looking to use less energy during hot weather, our North Mechanical Heating and Cooling specialists can assist you. Reach us at 928-263-8570 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling options.