You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right temperature during summer weather.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We discuss advice from energy professionals so you can find the best setting for your loved ones.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Holdrege.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your AC costs 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 seems too high, there are approaches you can keep your residence cool without having the air conditioning going all the time.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cold air where it belongs—within your home. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide extra insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without giving up comfort. That’s due to the fact they freshen with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable on the surface, try conducting a trial for about a week. Begin by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily turn it down while using the tips above. You could be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioner running all day while your house is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t effective and usually results in a higher electrical bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temperature controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a handy resolution, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it intuitively changes temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? About $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and adjust temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We advise following an equivalent test over a week, putting your temperature higher and steadily lowering it to locate the right setting for your house. On mild nights, you might learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a better solution than running the air conditioning.
More Methods to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather
There are added approaches you can save money on AC bills throughout hot weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping electricity costs small.
- Book annual air conditioner tune-ups. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and might help it run at greater efficiency. It might also help prolong its life cycle, since it allows technicians to find small troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Switch air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dirty filter can result in your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and raise your utility.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create huge comfort issues in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air indoors.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with Durable Service
If you are looking to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Durable Service experts can help. Give us a call at 308-995-8177 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
