You shouldn’t need to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a refreshing setting during summer weather.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We go over recommendations from energy experts so you can determine the best temp for your home.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Buellton.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your indoor and exterior temps, your utility 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 hot, there are methods you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioning on all the time.
Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to offer added insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they freshen through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot at first glance, try running a test for approximately a week. Begin by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually lower it while following the ideas 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. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling 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 often leads to a higher electrical bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temp in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a handy remedy, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for the majority of families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cool, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend following an equivalent test over a week, moving your temp higher and progressively turning it down to locate the right temperature for your house. On mild nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a preferable option than operating the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are added ways you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping AC expenses low.
- Schedule regular air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and may help it work more efficiently. It could also help prolong its life expectancy, since it allows pros to uncover little troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and drive up your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the USA don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort problems in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air within your home.
Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning
If you need to use less energy during hot weather, our Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning pros can help. Get in touch with us at 805-691-7554 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling options.