You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your house at the right temperature during hot days.
But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We review suggestions from energy experts so you can select the best temp for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Port Orchard.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your indoor and exterior warmth, your AC costs will be higher.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems too high, there are methods you can keep your house pleasant without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver added insulation and improved energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s due to the fact they freshen by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable at first glance, try conducting a trial for a week or so. Get started by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively decrease it while adhering to the ideas above. You may be shocked at how cool you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner on all day while your home is unoccupied. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t productive and typically produces a higher cooling cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temp under control, but you need to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you need a convenient 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 adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cold, depending on your clothing and blanket preference.
We suggest using an equivalent test over a week, setting your thermostat higher and gradually lowering it to locate the best temp for your family. On cool nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the air conditioning.
More Methods to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather
There are other methods you can spend less money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping electrical costs down.
- Schedule regular air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and might help it operate at better efficiency. It can also help extend its life span, since it helps pros to find seemingly insignificant problems before they cause a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and drive up your energy.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the United States don’t have proper 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 come apart over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort problems in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air within your home.
Conserve More Energy This Summer with Air Masters Heating & Cooling
If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Air Masters Heating & Cooling pros can assist you. Get in touch with us at 360-233-2573 or contact us online for more details about our energy-saving cooling options.