You shouldn’t be forced to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing temp during the summer.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We review ideas from energy professionals so you can find the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Siloam Springs.
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 indoor and outdoor warmth, your electricity expenses will be bigger.
These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems warm, there are approaches you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—indoors. Some window coverings, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide added insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot initially, try conducting a test for about a week. Begin by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually decrease it while following the suggestions above. You may be surprised at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioner running all day while your residence is unoccupied. Turning the temp 7¬¬–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC expenses, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t useful and often leads to a more expensive cooling bills.
A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temp controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a convenient solution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and adjust temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for the majority of families. The majority of 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 chilly, based on your pajama and blanket preference.
We recommend following a similar test over a week, moving your temperature higher and gradually turning it down to determine the right temperature for your family. On cool nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior option than running the AC.
More Methods to Use Less Energy This Summer
There are additional methods you can conserve money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Buy an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping cooling
bills low. - Set annual air conditioning service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and might help it run at better efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life span, since it helps technicians to pinpoint small issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and raise your energy
bills. - Inspect attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes 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 require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has come apart as it’s aged can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort issues in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it belongs by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air within your home.
Use Less Energy During Hot Weather with Siloam Springs Heating & AC
If you need to use less energy during warm weather, our Siloam Springs Heating & AC specialists can help. Get in touch with us at 479-308-8176 or contact us online for extra info about our energy-efficient cooling products.