You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your home at a refreshing temperature during warm days.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy specialists so you can choose the best setting for your home.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Boynton Beach.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your utility expenses will be bigger.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems warm, there are approaches you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioner going all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver more insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they refresh with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot on the surface, try conducting a trial for approximately a week. Begin by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively decrease it while adhering to the suggestions above. You could be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioning going all day while your residence is empty. Turning the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your air conditioning costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t effective and usually results in a more expensive air conditioner cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temp in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to raise the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a handy fix, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it intuitively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that may be unpleasant for most families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that may be too chilly, based on your pajama and blanket preference.
We recommend following a comparable test over a week, moving your temperature higher and steadily lowering it to find the best temp for your residence. On cool nights, you might learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better option than using the AC.
More Approaches to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather
There are added approaches you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping electricity costs small.
- Set yearly air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and could help it operate at better efficiency. It can also help extend its life expectancy, since it enables technicians to uncover little issues before they cause a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and increase your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in major comfort troubles in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it should be by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air inside.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with A2Z Air Inc
If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our A2Z Air Inc pros can assist you. Reach us at 561-892-1768 or contact us online for more details about our energy-saving cooling products.
