You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at the right setting during warm days.
But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We go over advice from energy specialists so you can choose the best temperature for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Manor and Austin.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your indoor and outside warmth, your utility expenses 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 sounds warm, there are ways you can keep your home cool without having the AC on constantly.
Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cool air where it should be—inside. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide extra insulation and better energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they refresh through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot initially, try doing a trial for approximately a week. Start by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily turn it down while following the ideas above. You could be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning on all day while your residence is empty. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t productive and usually produces a more expensive AC expense.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your settings under control, but you need to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you might forget to increase the set temperature when you go.
If you need a handy resolution, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for most families. Many people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We suggest trying a comparable test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and gradually decreasing it to locate the ideal setting for your house. On cool nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior option than operating the air conditioner.
More Methods to Save Energy This Summer
There are extra methods you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping energy expenses small.
- Book annual air conditioner maintenance. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and may help it operate at better efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life expectancy, since it allows professionals to discover small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters regularly. Follow manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too frequently, and raise your utility.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the USA don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most 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 seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort troubles in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air indoors.
Use Less Energy This Summer with Country Thyme AC & Home Services
If you need to save more energy this summer, our Country Thyme AC & Home Services experts can assist you. Reach us at 512-954-2223 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling options.