You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the best temperature, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy experts so you can choose the best temperature for your family.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Modesto.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your indoor and outside temps, your electrical expenses will be greater.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds hot, there are methods you can keep your residence cool without having the AC on frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cold air where it belongs—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give more insulation and improved energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they refresh with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot initially, try running an experiment for approximately a week. Start by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily lower it while following the suggestions above. You may be shocked at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning going all day while your house is unoccupied. Turning the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical bills, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t useful and typically results in a bigger cooling cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your settings under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a handy solution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $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 almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest using a similar test over a week, putting your temp higher and slowly turning it down to select the right setting for your family. On pleasant nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better option than running the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Save Energy During Warm Weather
There are other approaches you can save money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping utility bills small.
- Schedule annual air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating smoothly and may help it run at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it allows techs to uncover little problems before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and drive up your energy.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create huge comfort troubles in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it belongs by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cold air within your home.
Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Jet Electrical, Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing
If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Jet Electrical, Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing pros can provide assistance. Reach us at 209-618-4595 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.