You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing setting during muggy weather.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We review advice from energy pros so you can find the best temperature for your house.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Michigan City.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your interior and outside temperatures, your cooling expenses will be larger.
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 methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the AC running constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—within your home. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give more insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot on the surface, try conducting a test for a week or so. Get started by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively turn it down while adhering to the tips above. You may be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning running all day while your home is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your cooling costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t effective and typically leads to a higher cooling cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your temp under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free resolution, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it instinctively 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 change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise following an equivalent test over a week, putting your temperature higher and steadily lowering it to select the ideal temperature for your residence. On cool nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior solution than running the air conditioning.
More Methods to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are other methods you can spend less money on AC bills throughout warm weather.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping electrical costs down.
- Schedule annual air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and may help it run at greater efficiency. It may also help prolong its life expectancy, since it allows techs to discover little troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too often, and raise your electrical.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many 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 let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort problems in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air within your home.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Paniccia Heating & Cooling
If you need to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Paniccia Heating & Cooling professionals can assist you. Give us a call at 219-872-2198 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.