You shouldn’t be forced to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing setting during summer weather.
But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We review ideas from energy pros so you can find the best setting for your house.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Greater Richmond.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and outdoor temperatures, your electricity expenses will be bigger.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems hot, there are ways you can keep your residence refreshing without having the air conditioning running all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—within your home. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver extra insulation and better energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they freshen through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable at first glance, try doing an experiment for about a week. Get started by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually lower it while following the suggestions above. You could be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC working all day while your residence is empty. Turning the setting 7–10 degrees hotter can save you as much as 5–15% on your AC expenses, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat under 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t effective and typically produces a bigger AC bill.
A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your settings under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a hassle-free remedy, think about installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and adjust temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be too uncomfortable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 65–68 degrees. But that could be too chilly, depending on your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend trying a similar test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and steadily decreasing it to determine the best temp for your family. On mild nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better idea than using the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather
There are extra methods you can save money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Buy an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping utility costs low.
- Schedule annual air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working properly and might help it run at better efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life cycle, since it helps techs to find little problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters often. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too much, and raise your energy.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the USA don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort troubles in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air indoors.
Conserve More Energy This Summer with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
If you need to save more energy during warm weather, our Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling experts can assist you. Get in touch with us at 804-979-2758 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling products.