You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at a pleasant temperature during hot days.

But what is the right setting, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy specialists so you can determine the best temp for your home.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your indoor and exterior warmth, your cooling expenses will be greater.

These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds too high, there are methods you can keep your house pleasant without having the air conditioning going all the time.

Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cool air where it should be—indoors. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and improved energy conservation.

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

If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable on the surface, try doing an experiment for approximately a week. Start by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively decrease it while adhering to the suggestions above. You could be surprised at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner working all day while your home is empty. Switching the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your electricity bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t productive and usually leads to a higher AC expense.

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

If you want a handy solution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another plus of installing 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 advises 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, based on your PJ and blanket preference.

We recommend running a comparable test over a week, setting your temp higher and gradually lowering it to locate the ideal temperature for your family. On cool nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior option than using the air conditioner.

More Methods to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather

There are added ways you can save money on utility bills throughout the summer.

  1. Buy an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping energy expenses small.
  2. Set annual air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment working like it should and could help it operate more efficiently. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it enables techs to find small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or turn on and off too much, and raise your electrical.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the U.S. 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”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort troubles in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.

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

If you want to use less energy during warm weather, our Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning pros can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 519-296-4437 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.