You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing temperature during hot days.
But what is the right setting, exactly? We review ideas from energy professionals so you can select the best setting for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Alice.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your interior and outdoor temps, your AC expenses will be greater.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears too high, there are approaches you can keep your house pleasant without having the air conditioner running all the time.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cold air where it should be—indoors. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give added insulation and better energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s since they freshen through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot initially, try running an experiment for approximately a week. Get started by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually lower it while adhering to the tips above. You might be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning running all day while your home is unoccupied. Switching the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t productive and usually leads to a higher air conditioner cost.
A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temp controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to raise the set temperature when you go.
If you want a convenient solution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage 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 could be unpleasant for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We advise trying a similar test over a week, setting your temp higher and steadily turning it down to select the ideal temperature for your family. On cool nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better solution than operating the air conditioning.
More Methods to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather
There are other methods you can save money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping utility bills small.
- Set annual air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and may help it operate more efficiently. It could also help prolong its life expectancy, since it enables pros to pinpoint little problems before they lead to 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 much, and increase your electrical.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort troubles in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by closing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.
Use Less Energy This Summer with Rescue Heating & Air
If you want to save more energy this summer, our Rescue Heating & Air experts can assist you. Get in touch with us at 361-603-4784 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling options.