You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a pleasant temp during the summer.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy professionals so you can determine the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Newport.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your interior and outside temperatures, your utility costs will be bigger.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems hot, there are ways you can keep your house cool without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—inside. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to offer more insulation and improved energy efficiency.
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 cool by a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm on the surface, try running a test for about a week. Get started by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, gradually lower it while following the tips above. You could be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner on all day while your home is empty. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you an estimated 5–15% on your air conditioning expenses, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t effective and typically results in a more expensive electrical cost.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temperature in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you go.
If you need a convenient resolution, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your residence and when you’re away. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage 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 could be too uncomfortable for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, due to your clothing and blanket preference.
We recommend trying a similar test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and steadily decreasing it to locate the ideal temperature for your family. On mild nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than using the air conditioning.
More Methods to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather
There are added ways you can spend less money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Buy an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping energy expenses down.
- Schedule yearly air conditioner maintenance. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and could help it run more efficiently. It can also help lengthen its life span, since it enables professionals to pinpoint small problems before they lead to a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and drive up your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the United States don’t have adequate 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 loosened over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in big comfort problems in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air inside.
Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Antonelli Comfort Solutions
If you are looking to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Antonelli Comfort Solutions professionals can help. Reach us at 252-424-6803 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling options.
