You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing temp during warm days.

But what is the best temperature, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy specialists so you can find the best setting for your family.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Thedford.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your interior and outdoor warmth, your AC costs will be higher.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears hot, there are approaches you can keep your residence pleasant without having the air conditioner going constantly.

Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to provide more insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they refresh through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too uncomfortable initially, try doing a test for about a week. Get started by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily lower it while adhering to the suggestions above. You might be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning running all day while your residence is unoccupied. Turning the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t productive and usually results in a bigger AC bill.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your settings controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to raise the set temperature when you go.

If you’re looking for a convenient remedy, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of having 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 advises 82 degrees, that may be unpleasant for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, due to your pajama and blanket preference.

We advise using a comparable test over a week, putting your temperature higher and gradually decreasing it to find the ideal temperature for your house. On cool nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than using the AC.

More Ways to Save Energy This Summer

There are added approaches you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

  1. Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping electrical expenses small.
  2. Set annual air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running smoothly and may help it run more efficiently. It could also help lengthen its life span, since it helps pros to uncover little troubles before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or run too much, and raise your electrical.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort problems in your house, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air in its place by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air within your home.

Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning

If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning specialists can help. Reach us at 519-296-4437 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling products.