You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at the right setting during warm days.

But what is the right temperature, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy specialists so you can select the best setting for your house.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your interior and exterior temperatures, your electricity costs will be greater.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems warm, there are methods you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioning on constantly.

Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—inside. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give added insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s since they refresh with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable on the surface, try conducting a trial for approximately a week. Get started by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while following the ideas above. You could be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning running all day while your residence is empty. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t productive and often leads to a more expensive cooling cost.

A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your settings in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a handy remedy, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another advantage of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for most families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 65–68 degrees. But that might be too cold, depending on your PJ and blanket preference.

We suggest trying a comparable test over a week, setting your temperature higher and steadily decreasing it to choose the best temp for your family. On cool nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better idea than running the air conditioning.

More Methods to Save Energy This Summer

There are other ways you can conserve money on energy bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping cooling expenses small.
  2. Book regular air conditioner tune-ups. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating smoothly and could help it operate at better efficiency. It could also help extend its life cycle, since it allows professionals to discover small issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too often, and raise your cooling.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort troubles in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by closing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air inside.

Use Less Energy This Summer with Western Mechanical, Inc.

If you want to save more energy this summer, our Western Mechanical, Inc. experts can assist you. Reach us at 435-753-5515 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling options.