You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant temperature during summer weather.

But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy experts so you can choose the best setting for your residence.

Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Boynton Beach.

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 interior and outside temps, your electrical expenses will be greater.

These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds warm, there are methods you can keep your house refreshing without having the AC running frequently.

Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide added insulation and enhanced energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s because they freshen through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too hot initially, try conducting an experiment for about a week. Get started by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively lower it while adhering to the suggestions above. You may be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner running all day while your residence is unoccupied. Switching the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t effective and typically leads to a higher AC expense.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temp controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you might forget to move the set temperature when you go.

If you’re looking for a convenient resolution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of having 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 may be unpleasant for most families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that may be too chilly, based on your clothing and blanket preference.

We recommend using an equivalent test over a week, moving your temp higher and steadily turning it down to locate the ideal temperature for your family. On cool nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than using the AC.

More Approaches to Save Energy During Warm Weather

There are additional methods you can conserve money on AC bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping utility costs down.
  2. Schedule regular air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating smoothly and could help it work at greater efficiency. It can also help prolong its life cycle, since it enables technicians to discover seemingly insignificant troubles before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Change air filters often. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and increase your utility.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort issues in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it belongs by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.

Save More Energy During Hot Weather with A2Z Air Inc

If you want to save more energy during hot weather, our A2Z Air Inc specialists can help. Get in touch with us at 561-270-6228 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.