You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing temperature during the summer.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy specialists so you can determine the best temp for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Newton.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your indoor and outside warmth, your electricity costs 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 hot, there are methods you can keep your home pleasant without having the AC running all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—indoors. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they cool with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm at first glance, try doing an experiment for about a week. Start by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively lower it while following the ideas above. You could be astonished at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner going all day while your house is vacant. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t useful and typically produces a more expensive electricity expense.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your settings in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a handy solution, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re gone. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and adjust temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend using a comparable test over a week, putting your temperature higher and progressively lowering it to pick the ideal temperature for your house. On mild nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than using the AC.
More Ways to Save Energy This Summer
There are additional methods you can save money on AC bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient air conditioning 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.
- Book yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating properly and might help it work more efficiently. It might also help extend its life span, since it allows professionals to spot seemingly insignificant troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or turn on and off too much, and raise your energy.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- 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 issues in your home, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep muggy air in its place by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air indoors.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with Brookwood Inc
If you want to conserve more energy this summer, our Brookwood Inc professionals can provide assistance. Give us a call at 641-693-6216 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling options.
