You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing temperature during summer weather.
But what is the right setting, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy specialists so you can find the best temperature for your home.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Carpentersville.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your inside and outside temps, your electrical costs will be higher.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears warm, there are methods you can keep your home cool without having the AC going all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and better energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s since they cool through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable at first glance, try doing a trial for approximately a week. Start by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while using the advice above. You may be surprised at how cool 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 house is vacant. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling bills, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your house faster. This isn’t productive and usually leads to a more expensive AC cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your temp controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you go.
If you’re looking for a handy resolution, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for most families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We advise following a similar test over a week, setting your temp higher and gradually turning it down to find the ideal setting for your house. On pleasant nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the AC.
More Approaches to Save Energy This Summer
There are extra methods you can conserve money on energy bills throughout warm weather.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping electrical costs small.
- Book yearly air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running like it should and might help it operate more efficiently. It might also help extend its life span, since it enables pros to spot seemingly insignificant troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Switch air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can result in your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and increase your cooling.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the United States don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort troubles in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air in its place by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air indoors.
Save More Energy This Summer with Controlled Comfort HVAC
If you want to save more energy this summer, our Controlled Comfort HVAC specialists can assist you. Reach us at 224-412-8308 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
