You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant setting during the summer.

But what is the right temperature, exactly? We review ideas from energy experts so you can determine the best temp for your house.

Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Warrenton.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your electricity bills will be greater.

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 ways you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioning going frequently.

Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give extra insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too hot at first glance, try running a test for about a week. Start by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while adhering to the advice above. You may be amazed at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC going all day while your residence is vacant. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your air conditioning bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t useful and often results in a higher electrical bill.

A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temperature in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to change the set temperature when you leave.

If you need a handy resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, based on your pajama and blanket preference.

We advise using an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and gradually lowering it to locate the ideal temp for your residence. On mild nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable option than operating the air conditioning.

More Methods to Save Energy During Hot Weather

There are other approaches you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping energy costs small.
  2. Book regular air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and might help it run at greater efficiency. It can also help extend its life expectancy, since it allows pros to find small issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Put in new air filters regularly. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or turn on and off too much, and increase your utility.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort problems in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air indoors.

Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning

If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning professionals can help. Reach us at 636-456-5041 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.