You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a refreshing setting during the summer.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy specialists so you can determine the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Haines City.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and outside temperatures, your utility 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 refreshing without having the AC on frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without giving up comfort. That’s because they refresh by a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm initially, try conducting a trial for about a week. Begin by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively decrease it while using the ideas above. You may be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner on all day while your home is empty. Moving the setting 7–10 degrees higher can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t useful and usually produces a higher air conditioner bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temp controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to raise the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a handy resolution, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of using 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 advises 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for many families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that could be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise using an equivalent test over a week, moving your temp higher and progressively decreasing it to determine the ideal temp for your residence. On cool nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the air conditioner.
More Ways to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather
There are additional methods you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping AC costs down.
- Schedule yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating like it should and may help it operate at greater efficiency. It may also help extend its life cycle, since it allows technicians to find small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dusty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too much, and drive up your utility.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort issues in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air in its place by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air within your home.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co.
If you need to conserve more energy this summer, our Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. experts can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 863-869-2587 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
