Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing setting during warm days.

But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We review recommendations from energy pros so you can choose the best setting for your house.

Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Logan.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your interior and exterior temps, your cooling bills 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 sounds warm, there are approaches you can keep your residence cool without having the air conditioner going frequently.

Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool by a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too warm on the surface, try running an experiment for a week or so. Start by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, gradually turn it down while using the suggestions above. You may be astonished at how cool you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the AC working all day while your house is vacant. Moving the setting 7¬¬–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your air conditioning expenses, 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 productive and typically produces a more expensive AC cost.

A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your temp in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you leave.

If you need a handy remedy, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re gone. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.

We recommend following a comparable test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and gradually turning it down to choose the ideal temp for your residence. On mild nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better option than using the air conditioner.

More Approaches to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather

There are additional ways you can conserve money on energy bills throughout the summer.

1. Buy an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping utility
expenses down.
2. Book yearly air conditioning service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and may help it work at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it enables professionals to uncover little issues before they create a big meltdown.
3. Switch air filters often. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or turn on and off too often, and increase your electricity
costs.
4. Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has loosened over the years can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort issues in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.

Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Western Mechanical, Inc.

If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Western Mechanical, Inc. professionals can help. Get in touch with us at 435-753-5515 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-conserving cooling options.