You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your house at the right temp during summer weather.
But what is the right setting, exactly? We review suggestions from energy professionals so you can find the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Wilkes Barre and Scranton.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your AC 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 seems too high, there are ways you can keep your home cool without having the AC running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s since they cool through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable initially, try doing a trial for about a week. Start by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily decrease it while using the suggestions above. You could be shocked at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner running all day while your home is vacant. Switching the temp 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your house faster. This isn’t productive and often results in a higher AC expense.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temperature in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to change the set temperature when you go.
If you’re looking for a handy fix, think about installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? About $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and adjust temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cold, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest running a comparable test over a week, moving your temperature higher and steadily lowering it to determine the ideal temperature for your family. On pleasant nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than using the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are additional ways you can save money on AC bills throughout warm weather.
- Get an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping AC bills small.
- Set yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working smoothly and may help it run more efficiently. It may also help lengthen its life span, since it enables techs to find little issues before they cause a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too much, and drive up your electrical.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of 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 seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort troubles in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air within your home.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with GLR Mechanical
If you want to use less energy this summer, our GLR Mechanical experts can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 570-569-1873 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling options.