You shouldn’t need to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at the right temp during muggy weather.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy specialists so you can determine the best setting for your loved ones.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Phoenix.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your electricity expenses will be bigger.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears hot, there are methods you can keep your residence refreshing without having the air conditioning on constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide added insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm initially, try running an experiment for about a week. Begin by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually lower it while using the ideas above. You may 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 running all day while your house is unoccupied. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t effective and often leads to a higher AC bill.
A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your settings under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.
If you’re looking for a convenient remedy, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it instinctively changes temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for the majority of 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 may be too cold, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.
We suggest following an equivalent test over a week, setting your temperature higher and progressively lowering it to choose the right temperature for your residence. On mild nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better option than operating the air conditioner.
More Methods to Save Energy This Summer
There are extra methods you can save money on AC bills throughout the summer.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping AC costs low.
- Schedule regular air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating properly and might help it run more efficiently. It could also help lengthen its life span, since it helps pros to discover little troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too frequently, and drive up your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort issues in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it should be by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air indoors.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc
If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc specialists can help. Get in touch with us at 602-584-2884 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.