You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your home at the right temperature during summer weather.
But what is the right setting, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy specialists so you can select the best temperature for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Odessa.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your interior and outdoor temperatures, your cooling expenses 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 seems too high, there are ways you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioner running all the time.
Keeping windows and blinds shut during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—indoors. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to give added insulation and improved energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable at first glance, try conducting a test for about a week. Begin by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily turn it down while using the advice above. You may 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 going all day while your house is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t useful and often produces a more expensive air conditioner bill.
A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your settings under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a handy solution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your residence and when you’re gone. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of getting 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 suggests 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for many families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, depending on your clothing and blanket preference.
We recommend following an equivalent test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and progressively lowering it to find the best setting for your residence. On cool nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better option than operating the AC.
More Ways to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are other ways you can spend less money on energy bills throughout hot weather.
- Get an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping utility bills small.
- Set regular air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and might help it work at greater efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life expectancy, since it allows technicians to find little issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or run too often, and raise your cooling.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort troubles in your house, like hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air in its place by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air within your home.
Save More Energy This Summer with Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning
If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning experts can assist you. Get in touch with us at 432-289-6309 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
