You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing temp during muggy weather.
But what is the best temp, exactly? We go over recommendations from energy specialists so you can find the best temperature for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Moline.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your indoor and outside warmth, your AC bills 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 approaches you can keep your house cool without having the air conditioner running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps cool air where it should be—within your home. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide added insulation and improved energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s because they cool through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too hot initially, try conducting a test for approximately a week. Get started by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, steadily turn it down while using the tips above. You could be surprised at how cool 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 house is empty. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t productive and usually leads to a more expensive electricity bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your settings under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a convenient resolution, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? About $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of using 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 advises 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cold, depending on your clothing and blanket preference.
We recommend using a comparable test over a week, setting your temp higher and gradually lowering it to pick the best setting for your residence. On mild nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than operating the AC.
More Methods to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are extra approaches you can save money on air conditioning bills throughout warm weather.
- Get an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping energy bills small.
- Set yearly air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment working smoothly and may help it operate at better efficiency. It could also help lengthen its life cycle, since it helps pros to spot little troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too much, and increase your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create huge comfort problems in your house, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air within your home.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with J.L. Brady Company LLC
If you are looking to save more energy this summer, our J.L. Brady Company LLC pros can assist you. Give us a call at 309-865-5564 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling products.
