You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a refreshing temperature during the summer.
But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy specialists so you can determine the best temp for your residence.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Libertyville.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and exterior warmth, your utility costs will be higher.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears hot, there are methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the air conditioning on frequently.
Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—inside. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give extra insulation and improved energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s since they freshen by a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot at first glance, try doing an experiment for a week or so. Begin by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually turn it down while following the ideas above. You might be surprised at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioner on all day while your home is unoccupied. Moving the setting 7¬¬–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t useful and usually produces a more expensive electrical bills.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your temperature controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to change the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cool, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We recommend following a comparable test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and progressively lowering it to find the right setting for your residence. On cool nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than running the air conditioning.
More Ways to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are added approaches you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping energy
bills small. - Book regular air conditioning tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit working smoothly and could help it run at greater efficiency. It could also help prolong its life span, since it helps techs to spot little troubles before they create a big meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and drive up your cooling
costs. - Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated as it’s aged can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort problems in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air in its place by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cold air indoors.
Use Less Energy This Summer with TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical
If you want to conserve more energy this summer, our TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical professionals can help. Give us a call at 847-362-0262 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling options.