You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at the right setting during summer weather.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We review ideas from energy specialists so you can select the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Greater Richmond.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your indoor and outside warmth, your electricity bills will be higher.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds too high, there are ways you can keep your home cool without having the AC going all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cold air where it belongs—within your home. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to give extra insulation and enhanced energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm on the surface, try running a test for about a week. Start by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually decrease it while following the suggestions above. You may be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner working all day while your house is vacant. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t effective and usually produces a higher electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a good approach to keep your temperature in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.
If you want a handy solution, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for most families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We suggest following an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and steadily lowering it to determine the ideal temperature for your residence. On cool nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the AC.
More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are added approaches you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Buy an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping energy costs low.
- Book yearly air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit working smoothly and may help it run more efficiently. It might also help extend its life cycle, since it allows technicians to discover seemingly insignificant issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too frequently, and raise your utility.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences 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 need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort troubles in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air indoors.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling experts can provide assistance. Reach us at 804-979-2758 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.