You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant temp during muggy weather.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy pros so you can select the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Phoenix.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your indoor and outside temps, 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 seems warm, there are methods you can keep your residence refreshing without having the air conditioner going frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—inside. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver extra insulation and improved energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot on the surface, try conducting an experiment for a week or so. Begin by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively decrease it while following the suggestions above. You might be astonished at how refreshed you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioning running all day while your home is vacant. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical costs, 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 often leads to a higher cooling bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good approach to keep your temperature under control, but you need to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to move the set temperature when you leave.
If you want a hassle-free remedy, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be unpleasant for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too chilly, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.
We advise trying an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and slowly decreasing it to locate the right temp for your family. On mild nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a better solution than running the AC.
More Ways to Save Energy This Summer
There are added approaches you can conserve money on AC bills throughout warm weather.
- Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping utility costs low.
- Book yearly air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and might help it work at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life cycle, since it helps technicians to find little troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and drive up your energy.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort troubles in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air within your home.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc
If you are looking to save more energy during warm weather, our Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc experts can help. Reach us at 602-789-3315 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.