You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your residence at a pleasant setting during warm days.
But what is the best setting, exactly? We review ideas from energy specialists so you can select the best temperature for your home.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Cedar Rapids.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your indoor and exterior temperatures, your electrical costs 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 sounds hot, there are methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the AC running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—inside. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give more insulation and better energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without giving up comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm at first glance, try doing a test for about a week. Get started by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively turn it down while following the suggestions above. You may be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner working all day while your house is vacant. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat under 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t useful and typically leads to a bigger electricity cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your temperature controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you might forget to raise the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a convenient fix, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it intuitively changes temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly 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 regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be unpleasant for the majority of families. Most 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, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We advise running an equivalent test over a week, putting your temperature higher and slowly turning it down to pick the best temp for your family. On pleasant nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a better idea than using the air conditioner.
More Methods to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are other ways you can spend less money on air conditioning bills throughout the summer.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping AC bills small.
- Set yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working smoothly and might help it run at greater efficiency. It might also help lengthen its life expectancy, since it helps techs to spot seemingly insignificant issues before they cause a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and drive up your electrical.
- Check attic insulation levels. Almost 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 checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort troubles in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air inside.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with Ilten's
If you need to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Ilten's pros can provide assistance. Reach us at 319-208-2351 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.