You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant temperature during the summer.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy professionals so you can determine the best temp for your residence.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Middletown.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your interior and outdoor temperatures, your utility expenses will be greater.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears too high, there are approaches you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioner on constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it should be—within your home. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide extra insulation and better energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they cool through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot at first glance, try doing a test for approximately a week. Start by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily lower it while following the suggestions above. You could be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning on all day while your house is empty. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t useful and usually produces a bigger air conditioner bill.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temperature controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.
If you need a handy remedy, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and adjust temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be too uncomfortable for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend trying a similar test over a week, moving your temperature higher and steadily lowering it to pick the ideal temperature for your family. On cool nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable option than operating the air conditioner.
More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are extra methods you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Buy an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping energy expenses low.
- Book regular air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating like it should and may help it run at better efficiency. It may also help prolong its life span, since it allows technicians to spot small issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too much, and drive up your energy.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort issues in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air inside.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with Advanced Service AC & Heating
If you want to use less energy this summer, our Advanced Service AC & Heating specialists can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 301-371-8807 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
