You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at the right setting during warm days.
But what is the right setting, exactly? We review advice from energy specialists so you can select the best setting for your family.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Phoenix.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor warmth, your electricity 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 too high, there are methods you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioner running constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains down during the day keeps cold air where it should be—indoors. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give extra insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s due to the fact they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too warm on the surface, try running a trial for approximately a week. Start by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily lower it while using the ideas above. You may be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning on all day while your residence is empty. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t productive and typically leads to a more expensive electricity expense.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your settings controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to raise the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a hassle-free fix, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it instinctively 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 just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for many families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cool, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We recommend using an equivalent test over a week, putting your temperature higher and gradually decreasing it to locate the ideal temp for your house. On pleasant nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the AC.
More Methods to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are extra ways you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout warm weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. An updated air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping energy bills low.
- Schedule regular air conditioner tune-ups. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating smoothly and could help it run more efficiently. It could also help prolong its life expectancy, since it allows pros to discover little troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and raise your electricity.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort problems in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air indoors.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Integrity AC & Heating LLC
If you want to use less energy this summer, our Integrity AC & Heating LLC specialists can assist you. Get in touch with us at 602-971-0567 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.
