You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a pleasant temperature during muggy weather.
But what is the best temp, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy specialists so you can find the best setting for your house.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Frederick.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and outside temps, your AC bills will be higher.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems too high, there are methods you can keep your residence cool without having the AC on all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains down during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give extra insulation and improved energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s since they refresh with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too warm at first glance, try running a trial for approximately a week. Start by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, steadily turn it down while following the advice above. You could be shocked at how cool you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning going all day while your home is empty. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your house more quickly. This isn’t productive and usually produces a bigger cooling bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temperature controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you take off.
If you need a handy fix, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? About $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for most families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest using an equivalent test over a week, setting your temperature higher and progressively turning it down to determine the right temp for your house. On pleasant nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better solution than operating the AC.
More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are other methods you can save money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping energy costs small.
- Set yearly air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating smoothly and may help it run at better efficiency. It might also help lengthen its life span, since it enables technicians to spot little issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too often, and raise your cooling.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses 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”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort issues in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by closing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air within your home.
Conserve More Energy During Hot Weather with May's Heating & Air
If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our May's Heating & Air professionals can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 301-834-1468 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.