You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy professionals so you can determine the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Hodgenville.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a big difference between your interior and outside warmth, your utility expenses will be higher.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears too high, there are ways you can keep your residence pleasant without having the AC running constantly.
Keeping windows and blinds down during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver more insulation and enhanced energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they cool by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too warm at first glance, try doing a trial for approximately a week. Start by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually lower it while using the suggestions above. You may be surprised at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioning going all day while your house is unoccupied. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your electricity costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t effective and usually produces a higher cooling bill.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your settings controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you go.
If you need a handy resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your residence and when you’re away. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cool, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest trying a comparable test over a week, setting your temp higher and steadily lowering it to pinpoint the best setting for your residence. On pleasant nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior option than operating the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Save Energy This Summer
There are added methods you can conserve money on utility bills throughout warm weather.
- Get an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping electrical costs low.
- Book yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running like it should and could help it work at better efficiency. It can also help prolong its life expectancy, since it allows professionals to pinpoint small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too frequently, and raise your electricity.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 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 should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort troubles in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air indoors.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc.
If you want to conserve more energy this summer, our Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. professionals can help. Give us a call at 270-358-3167 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling products.
