You shouldn’t need to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant temperature during warm days.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy pros so you can find the best temperature for your home.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Moline.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your inside and outside temperatures, your AC bills will be greater.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds hot, there are methods you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps cool air where it should be—indoors. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver added insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s because they refresh with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot on the surface, try doing a trial for approximately a week. Begin by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually decrease it while following the suggestions above. You could be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner running all day while your house is empty. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your house more quickly. This isn’t useful and often leads to a bigger electrical expense.
A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your temp under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to move the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a hassle-free remedy, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We recommend running a comparable test over a week, putting your temperature higher and gradually turning it down to pinpoint the ideal setting for your family. On cool nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior option than running the air conditioning.
More Methods to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather
There are extra methods you can conserve money on AC bills throughout hot weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping cooling bills down.
- Set yearly air conditioner maintenance. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working like it should and may help it operate more efficiently. It could also help lengthen its life expectancy, since it enables pros to uncover small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too often, and drive up your electrical.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort troubles in your home, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by closing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air indoors.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Freed Heating & Air Conditioning
If you want to save more energy during hot weather, our Freed Heating & Air Conditioning professionals can assist you. Get in touch with us at 309-865-5115 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling options.