You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a refreshing temperature during summer weather.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We go over advice from energy professionals so you can select the best setting for your house.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Elk River.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outside temperatures, your electrical bills will be bigger.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears hot, there are methods you can keep your residence cool without having the AC going all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver added insulation and improved energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable at first glance, try running a test for a week or so. Begin by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively decrease it while using the tips above. You could be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioner going all day while your home is vacant. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t effective and often leads to a more expensive AC bill.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temperature controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a convenient resolution, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually 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 regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for most 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 cool, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend using a comparable test over a week, setting your temperature higher and gradually lowering it to find the right temp for your residence. On mild nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Conserve Energy This Summer
There are additional methods 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 lose efficiency as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping energy expenses down.
- Book yearly air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating like it should and might help it work more efficiently. It can also help lengthen its life cycle, since it enables technicians to pinpoint seemingly insignificant issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and raise your electricity.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in big comfort issues in your house, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air inside.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Home Comfort Heating & Air
If you want to use less energy during hot weather, our Home Comfort Heating & Air experts can provide assistance. Reach us at 763-276-0617 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling products.
