You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your house at a pleasant setting during warm days.
But what is the best temperature, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy experts so you can find the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Macon.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and exterior warmth, your electricity bills 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 too high, there are methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—inside. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to offer extra insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s since they refresh with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot initially, try conducting a test for approximately a week. Start by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, steadily turn it down while using the tips above. You could be amazed at how comfortable 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 unoccupied. Turning the setting 7¬¬–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your house faster. This isn’t effective and typically produces a more expensive electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temp under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a hassle-free fix, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of using 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 recommends 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for most families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too chilly, based on your pajama and blanket preference.
We advise trying a comparable test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and gradually turning it down to pinpoint the best temp for your house. On pleasant nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior option than running the air conditioner.
More Methods to Conserve Energy This Summer
There are other ways you can save money on AC bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping energy
expenses small. - Schedule yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and may help it operate at better efficiency. It may also help extend its life expectancy, since it allows pros to find small problems before they cause a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Use 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 raise your utility
expenses. - Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over the years can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort troubles in your home, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by closing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air indoors.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Air Temperature Control
If you are looking to save more energy this summer, our Air Temperature Control professionals can help. Get in touch with us at 478-202-3170 or contact us online for more info about our energy-efficient cooling options.