You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a pleasant setting during muggy weather.
But what is the best 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 Libertyville.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your interior and outdoor temps, your cooling expenses 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 appears too high, there are ways you can keep your house cool without having the air conditioning on frequently.
Keeping windows and blinds shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to offer added insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they freshen by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too warm on the surface, try doing an experiment for approximately a week. Start by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily turn it down while using the tips above. You could be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner working all day while your house is unoccupied. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electricity costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your house more quickly. This isn’t useful and typically results in a bigger air conditioner bill.
A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your temp in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you might forget to increase the set temperature when you go.
If you need a convenient resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and regulate temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for many families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cold, depending on your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend using a similar test over a week, moving your temp higher and steadily turning it down to choose the best setting for your house. On mild nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the air conditioning.
More Methods to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather
There are extra ways you can save money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping utility bills low.
- Book yearly air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and may help it run at better efficiency. It may also help extend its life span, since it helps techs to discover little issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Switch air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too often, and increase your electrical.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort issues in your residence, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep warm air in its place by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air indoors.
Use Less Energy This Summer with TopTec
If you want to save more energy during hot weather, our TopTec experts can assist you. Get in touch with us at 847-362-0262 or contact us online for more details about our energy-saving cooling options.