Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right setting during the summer.

But what is the best temp, exactly? We review advice from energy professionals so you can find the best setting for your loved ones.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Branchville.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outside warmth, your cooling costs 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 too high, there are ways you can keep your residence pleasant without having the air conditioning on constantly.

Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide extra insulation and enhanced energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too hot initially, try doing an experiment for about a week. Get started by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually decrease it while following the ideas above. You may be astonished at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the AC working all day while your residence is unoccupied. Switching the setting 7¬¬–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning expenses, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t productive and often produces a higher AC bills.

A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temperature under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you go.

If you’re looking for a convenient solution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, due to your pajama and blanket preference.

We suggest following a similar test over a week, setting your temperature higher and progressively lowering it to determine the ideal temperature for your house. On cool nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the air conditioning.

More Approaches to Save Energy This Summer

There are other approaches you can conserve money on air conditioning bills throughout the summer.

1. Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping energy
expenses low.
2. Schedule regular AC tune-ups. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running like it should and may help it operate at better efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it helps pros to spot little troubles before they lead to an expensive meltdown.
3. Switch air filters frequently. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and raise your energy
costs.
4. Check attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the United States don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has loosened as it’s aged can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort troubles in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air inside.

Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc.

If you need to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. pros can provide assistance. Reach us at 862-345-6896 or contact us online for more information about our energy-conserving cooling options.