You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right temperature during the summer.

But what is the best setting, exactly? We review suggestions from energy specialists so you can select the best temperature for your house.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in South Beloit and Belvidere.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your interior and outdoor warmth, your electrical expenses will be greater.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears hot, there are ways you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioning on all the time.

Keeping windows and blinds shut during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide more insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable initially, try conducting a trial for a week or so. Get started by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually turn it down while following the tips above. You might be shocked at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC going all day while your home is vacant. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your air conditioning bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t productive and usually produces a higher electrical cost.

A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your settings in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize 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 is aware when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it instinctively changes temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cold, depending on your PJ and blanket preference.

We suggest using a comparable test over a week, moving your temp higher and slowly turning it down to choose the best temperature for your house. On pleasant nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than running the air conditioning.

More Approaches to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather

There are additional approaches you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

  1. Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping cooling costs down.
  2. Set annual air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running like it should and might help it run at better efficiency. It may also help lengthen its life cycle, since it enables pros to find little issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dirty filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too much, and drive up your utility.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has separated over time can let conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort troubles in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air inside.

Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

If you are looking to save more energy this summer, our Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc professionals can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 877-389-2465 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling options.