You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your home at a refreshing temp during muggy weather.

But what is the ideal setting, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy pros so you can find the best temperature for your family.

Here’s what we recommend 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 interior and exterior temperatures, your electricity expenses will be greater.

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

While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds hot, there are ways you can keep your residence cool without having the air conditioning on constantly.

Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to offer extra insulation and enhanced energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s because they cool with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too warm initially, try running a test for about a week. Get started by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually lower it while using the tips above. You may be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioner working all day while your house is unoccupied. Turning the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electricity expenses, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t productive and typically results in a higher AC expense.

A programmable thermostat is a good approach to keep your temp controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to change the set temperature when you take off.

If you need a hassle-free remedy, think about installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home 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 plus of installing 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 might 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 advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cold, depending on your clothing and blanket preference.

We advise following a similar test over a week, putting your temp higher and progressively lowering it to locate the best setting for your family. On cool nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than using the air conditioner.

More Approaches to Conserve Energy This Summer

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

  1. Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping electrical costs low.
  2. Set annual air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating properly and may help it work at greater efficiency. It can also help prolong its life cycle, since it allows professionals to find little problems before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and increase your utility.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create huge comfort problems in your home, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air inside.

Conserve More Energy During Hot Weather with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc.

If you are looking to save more energy this summer, our West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. pros can assist you. Get in touch with us at 614-879-9091 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.