You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a refreshing setting during summer weather.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy professionals so you can find the best setting for your home.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Payson.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and outdoor warmth, your utility bills will be greater.
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 home refreshing without having the air conditioning running all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—within your home. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen by a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable on the surface, try conducting an experiment for about a week. Get started by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while using the tips above. You could be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning working all day while your house is unoccupied. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees hotter can save you as much as 5–15% on your electricity costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t productive and usually results in a bigger electrical cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temp under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t use programs, you might forget to move the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a handy resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re away. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cool, depending on your clothing and blanket preference.
We suggest using a similar test over a week, setting your temp higher and progressively turning it down to select the right temperature for your family. On mild nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than running the air conditioning.
More Ways to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather
There are other methods you can spend less money on utility bills throughout warm weather.
- Buy an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping energy expenses down.
- Book yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and could help it work at better efficiency. It may also help prolong its life expectancy, since it enables pros to uncover small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or turn on and off too often, and raise your electrical.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in major comfort problems in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.
Conserve More Energy This Summer with North Mechanical Heating and Cooling
If you are looking to save more energy during hot weather, our North Mechanical Heating and Cooling pros can help. Give us a call at 928-263-6494 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling options.
