You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at the right temperature during muggy weather.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We review suggestions from energy experts so you can find the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Auburn.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and outdoor temps, your electricity bills will be larger.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds warm, there are approaches you can keep your house pleasant without having the air conditioning on constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to provide extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they cool with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too warm at first glance, try conducting a test for approximately a week. Begin by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively lower it while using the ideas above. You could be shocked at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the AC going all day while your residence is vacant. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your house faster. This isn’t effective and often produces a bigger electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your settings controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you go.
If you want a convenient solution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and adjust temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too chilly, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend trying an equivalent test over a week, setting your thermostat higher and gradually turning it down to determine the ideal temperature for your family. On mild nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than operating the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are additional ways you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping electricity bills small.
- Schedule yearly air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and could help it work at greater efficiency. It can also help prolong its life expectancy, since it helps pros to discover seemingly insignificant problems before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too much, and drive up your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. 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 holes, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it should be by closing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air inside.
Use Less Energy This Summer with Forster Heating
If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Forster Heating specialists can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 530-885-8081 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling options.
