You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing temperature during the summer.

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

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a big difference between your interior and outside temperatures, your utility expenses will be larger.

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

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems too high, there are methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the AC on frequently.

Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—inside. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide extra insulation and enhanced energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too hot at first glance, try doing a trial for a week or so. Start by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively lower it while following the advice above. You may be surprised at how cool you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning running all day while your residence is vacant. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning 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 productive and usually produces a bigger cooling cost.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your settings controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to increase the set temperature when you take off.

If you need a hassle-free solution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another plus of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be unpleasant for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cool, due to your pajama and blanket preference.

We advise running a similar test over a week, putting your temp higher and gradually decreasing it to choose the best temp for your family. On pleasant nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior solution than operating the AC.

More Approaches to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather

There are additional ways you can save money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping cooling bills small.
  2. Book regular air conditioner tune-ups. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working smoothly and might help it work at greater efficiency. It could also help prolong its life expectancy, since it enables pros to pinpoint little problems before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and increase your energy.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort issues in your house, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air within your home.

Conserve More Energy This Summer with Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

If you are looking to conserve more energy this summer, our Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc specialists can provide assistance. Give us a call at 251-471-2674 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling products.