You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We review recommendations from energy pros so you can find the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Yukon.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your interior and outside warmth, your AC bills will be larger.
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 ways you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioner running constantly.
Keeping windows and blinds down during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—inside. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they freshen through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too uncomfortable initially, try conducting an experiment for approximately a week. Begin by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually lower it while using the ideas above. You may be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioning working all day while your residence is empty. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your cooling costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t productive and typically produces a bigger AC bill.
A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temp controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a convenient remedy, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that might be too chilly, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We advise trying an equivalent test over a week, setting your temperature higher and steadily decreasing it to choose the best setting for your house. On cool nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather
There are extra approaches you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.
- Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping AC expenses low.
- Set regular air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working like it should and could help it operate more efficiently. It may also help extend its life cycle, since it allows techs to spot little troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or turn on and off too often, and raise your energy.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort problems in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by closing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air inside.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning
If you want to save more energy this summer, our Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning professionals can assist you. Reach us at 405-494-7444 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling options.
