You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your home at a pleasant temp during the summer.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We go over ideas from energy experts so you can select the best temp for your house.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Macon.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your indoor and outside warmth, your electricity expenses will be larger.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds hot, there are ways you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioner running frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cold air where it should be—within your home. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide extra insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot on the surface, try doing a test for a week or so. Start by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, gradually lower it while following the ideas above. You might be shocked at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner on all day while your residence is unoccupied. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electricity bills, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t useful and typically leads to a more expensive electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a good approach to keep your settings in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a convenient remedy, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cool, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend using a comparable test over a week, putting your temperature higher and slowly decreasing it to pinpoint the right temperature for your house. On mild nights, you might learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better solution than running the air conditioner.
More Methods to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather
There are other methods you can save money on air conditioning bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house more comfortable while keeping cooling expenses low.
- Set annual air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running like it should and may help it operate at greater efficiency. It may also help extend its life span, since it helps professionals to find small troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and increase your utility.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the United States don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort problems in your home, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep muggy air in its place by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air within your home.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Air Temperature Control
If you are looking to use less energy during warm weather, our Air Temperature Control experts can provide assistance. Give us a call at 478-339-3882 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling options.