You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right temperature during hot days.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We review ideas from energy professionals so you can select the best temperature for your residence.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Weatherford.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and exterior warmth, your utility expenses will be higher.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds too high, there are methods you can keep your house refreshing without having the AC going frequently.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give extra insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they refresh through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot at first glance, try conducting an experiment for about a week. Get started by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively turn it down while following the tips above. You might be surprised at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner on all day while your residence is empty. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t productive and usually leads to a more expensive cooling expense.
A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your settings in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting 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 knows when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We recommend running an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and steadily decreasing it to pinpoint the ideal setting for your house. On cool nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the AC.
More Ways to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather
There are extra methods you can save money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.
- Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping energy costs down.
- Set yearly air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and might help it work at greater efficiency. It may also help extend its life cycle, since it enables techs to discover little issues before they cause a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too often, and drive up your electricity.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort troubles in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air indoors.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Parker County Cooling & Heating
If you are looking to use less energy during hot weather, our Parker County Cooling & Heating specialists can help. Reach us at 817-587-4899 or contact us online for extra info about our energy-saving cooling products.