You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right temp during warm days.

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

Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in West Jefferson.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor temperatures, your electricity expenses will be greater.

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

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems hot, there are approaches you can keep your house cool without having the AC on all the time.

Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to offer extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.

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 due to the fact they cool with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too hot initially, try running a test for approximately a week. Get started by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively decrease it while using the advice above. You could be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC on all day while your house is vacant. Turning the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning bills, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your house faster. This isn’t effective and typically produces a higher cooling bill.

A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your settings under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.

If you want a hassle-free fix, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from almost anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.

We advise following a comparable test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and gradually lowering it to locate the best temperature for your family. On cool nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better idea than operating the air conditioner.

More Methods to Save Energy During Hot Weather

There are extra methods you can save money on utility bills throughout hot weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping AC costs small.
  2. Set yearly air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating smoothly and may help it work more efficiently. It could also help prolong its life cycle, since it enables technicians to uncover little issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Put in new air filters frequently. Follow 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 electricity.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the USA don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort troubles in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air within your home.

Save More Energy This Summer with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc.

If you want to use less energy during warm weather, our West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. professionals can help. Give us a call at 614-879-9091 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling options.