You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing setting during muggy weather.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy specialists so you can choose the best setting for your family.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Richardson.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your cooling bills 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 hot, there are approaches you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioner on constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide added insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s since they refresh with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too warm initially, try running a test for a week or so. Begin by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively lower it while using the suggestions above. You may be amazed at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning working all day while your home is empty. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t useful and typically results in a bigger electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your temperature controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a handy resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? About $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, based on your pajama and blanket preference.
We advise following a comparable test over a week, setting your temperature higher and steadily turning it down to select the right temp for your family. On pleasant nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the AC.
More Approaches to Save Energy During Warm Weather
There are other methods you can spend less money on AC bills throughout warm weather.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your house more comfortable while keeping AC expenses small.
- Book yearly air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating properly and may help it work more efficiently. It might also help extend its life span, since it enables techs to discover small issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters regularly. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dirty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or turn on and off too much, and raise your energy.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the USA don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort issues in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it should be by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air within your home.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Spire Heating and Air Conditioning
If you are looking to use less energy during warm weather, our Spire Heating and Air Conditioning pros can assist you. Reach us at 214-550-0111 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling solutions.