You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your home at a refreshing setting during hot days.
But what is the best temp, exactly? We go over ideas from energy pros so you can choose the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Mobile.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your interior and outside warmth, your utility bills will be bigger.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears too high, there are methods you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioning on frequently.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide added insulation and improved energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too warm on the surface, try conducting an experiment for about a week. Begin by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually turn it down while using the ideas above. You might be surprised at how cool you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning running all day while your home is vacant. Switching the temperature 7¬¬–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t productive and typically leads to a more expensive cooling expense.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your settings controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to raise the set temperature when you go.
If you want a handy remedy, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? About $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We suggest trying an equivalent test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and gradually lowering it to locate the best temp for your house. On mild nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than operating the air conditioner.
More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are other approaches you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.
- Buy an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping AC
bills low. - Book regular air conditioning service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating smoothly and could help it operate at greater efficiency. It can also help prolong its life span, since it helps professionals to pinpoint small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too frequently, and raise your electricity
bills. - Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over the years can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort problems in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by closing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air indoors.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc
If you are looking to use less energy during hot weather, our Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc experts can provide assistance. Reach us at 251-471-2674 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.