You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or drain your wallet to keep your house at the right temperature during muggy weather.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy specialists so you can select the best temp for your house.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Chadron.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your interior and exterior temps, your cooling expenses will be greater.
These are our suggestions 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 residence pleasant without having the air conditioner going constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide more insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s since they freshen by a windchill effect. As they cool people, not areas, turn them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm at first glance, try conducting an experiment for approximately a week. Start by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, steadily lower it while using the advice above. You might be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner running all day while your house is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat under 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t useful and often results in a bigger AC bill.
A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your settings in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a convenient remedy, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it intuitively changes temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of having 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 may be unbearable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise trying an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and gradually lowering it to determine the right setting for your house. On pleasant nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior idea than operating the air conditioning.
More Ways to Conserve Energy This Summer
There are other ways you can spend less money on utility bills throughout warm weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping energy costs down.
- Schedule annual air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and might help it operate at greater efficiency. It can also help extend its life span, since it enables technicians to uncover little issues before they cause a major meltdown.
- Change air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and raise your cooling.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the United States don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort problems in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it belongs by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air within your home.
Conserve More Energy This Summer with MPC Heating & Cooling
If you are looking to save more energy during hot weather, our MPC Heating & Cooling professionals can assist you. Give us a call at 308-470-5613 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling options.