You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right setting during summer weather.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We review suggestions from energy specialists so you can choose the best temp for your family.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Croydon.
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 temperatures, your electrical costs will be greater.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears warm, there are approaches you can keep your residence cool without having the AC on constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains down during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give extra insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s because they freshen through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm at first glance, try doing a test for a week or so. Get started by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily decrease it while using the tips above. You might be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioner 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 put your thermostat below 78 to cool your house more quickly. This isn’t productive and typically produces a higher electricity expense.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your temperature in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a hassle-free remedy, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it instinctively changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 65–68 degrees. But that could be too cold, based on your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest using an equivalent test over a week, moving your temperature higher and slowly lowering it to determine the ideal setting for your house. On cool nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better option than operating the air conditioning.
More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are other ways you can save money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping electrical bills down.
- Set yearly air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating properly and may help it work more efficiently. It may also help prolong its life span, since it helps pros to uncover small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters regularly. Follow manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or turn on and off too often, and raise your energy.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort troubles in your house, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it belongs by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air within your home.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC
If you are looking to use less energy during warm weather, our Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC professionals can assist you. Get in touch with us at 215-741-5505 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling options.