You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at a refreshing temp during the summer.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy experts so you can find the best temperature for your loved ones.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Carson City.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor warmth, your utility bills 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 sounds hot, there are approaches you can keep your residence refreshing without having the air conditioner running constantly.
Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to give added insulation and enhanced energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s because they refresh with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot at first glance, try running a trial for a week or so. Begin by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, steadily lower it while using the ideas above. You may be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning on all day while your home is empty. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your cooling 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 rapidly. This isn’t effective and usually produces a higher electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temp under control, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to move the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a hassle-free solution, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the biggest 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 almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise trying a comparable test over a week, setting your temperature higher and slowly turning it down to choose the best setting for your family. On cool nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better idea than running the air conditioning.
More Ways to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather
There are extra approaches you can save money on AC bills throughout the summer.
- Buy an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping energy bills down.
- Schedule regular air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working like it should and may help it run more efficiently. It might also help lengthen its life expectancy, since it enables techs to pinpoint seemingly insignificant issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Change air filters regularly. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dusty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too much, and raise your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort issues in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air within your home.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Anderson Heating & A/C
If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Anderson Heating & A/C pros can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 775-882-8154 or contact us online for extra info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.