You shouldn’t be forced to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We go over ideas from energy pros so you can select the best temperature for your home.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Highlands Ranch.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outside temps, your electricity 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 appears warm, there are methods you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains shut during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver extra insulation and better energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s due to the fact they refresh through a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too warm initially, try doing a trial for approximately a week. Begin by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually turn it down while following the suggestions above. You could be surprised at how cool 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 residence is unoccupied. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t productive and usually produces a more expensive electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your settings controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you might forget to raise the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of having 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 recommends 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 65–68 degrees. But that might be too cold, based on your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest using a comparable test over a week, setting your temp higher and steadily lowering it to locate the ideal temperature for your residence. On pleasant nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable option than operating the air conditioner.
More Methods to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather
There are other ways you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping AC costs small.
- Book regular air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running smoothly and may help it operate at greater efficiency. It may also help prolong its life span, since it helps techs to spot little issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Switch air filters regularly. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dirty filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too much, and increase your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 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 major comfort problems in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air within your home.
Use Less Energy This Summer with PS Cool Heat
If you want to save more energy during hot weather, our PS Cool Heat specialists can help. Get in touch with us at 720-613-2210 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.
