You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your home at a refreshing setting during the summer.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We go over ideas from energy specialists so you can select the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Marshalltown.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and exterior warmth, your cooling expenses will be bigger.
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 ways you can keep your house cool without having the air conditioner running frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—inside. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable on the surface, try doing a test for a week or so. Begin by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily turn it down while adhering to the advice above. You might be astonished at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning working all day while your residence is unoccupied. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your electricity expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t effective and usually results in a higher AC cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temperature in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you might forget to raise the set temperature when you go.
If you want a hassle-free remedy, consider getting 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 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 getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest using a similar test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and steadily decreasing it to find the best temperature for your family. On pleasant nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than using the AC.
More Approaches to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather
There are other ways you can spend less money on air conditioning bills throughout the summer.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping cooling bills small.
- Book regular air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit working smoothly and could help it work at greater efficiency. It can also help extend its life span, since it enables professionals to spot little problems before they cause a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters regularly. Follow manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and drive up your electrical.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences 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 inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort problems in your house, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air inside.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Kapaun & Brown
If you need to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Kapaun & Brown experts can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 641-812-2028 or contact us online for extra info about our energy-saving cooling options.