You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your home at a pleasant temp during muggy weather.
But what is the ideal setting, exactly? We review recommendations from energy specialists so you can determine the best setting for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise 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 is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outdoor warmth, your utility costs will be bigger.
These are our suggestions 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 house refreshing without having the air conditioner going all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to offer more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they cool with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable initially, try running a trial for approximately a week. Begin by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually turn it down while using the advice above. You could be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the AC working all day while your house is empty. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical bills, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t productive and often produces a higher cooling cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your temperature in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a hassle-free resolution, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it intuitively adjusts temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and change temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that may be unbearable for many families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise following an equivalent test over a week, moving your temp higher and slowly decreasing it to pinpoint the best temp for your family. On pleasant nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than running the air conditioner.
More Ways to Save Energy During Warm Weather
There are other methods you can conserve money on air conditioning bills throughout the summer.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping electrical costs small.
- Book yearly air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and might help it run at greater efficiency. It could also help prolong its life span, since it allows technicians to pinpoint small issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dirty filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and drive up your cooling.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in major comfort issues in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air inside.
Conserve More Energy During Hot Weather with Air Masters Heating & Cooling
If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Air Masters Heating & Cooling professionals can provide assistance. Reach us at 360-233-2573 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling products.