Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a refreshing temp during warm days.

But what is the best temperature, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy experts so you can find the best temp for your home.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Newark.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and outside temperatures, your cooling costs 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 hot, there are approaches you can keep your home refreshing without having the AC on frequently.

Keeping windows and blinds down during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—inside. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide extra insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without giving up comfort. That’s because they refresh through 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 on the surface, try running a test for about a week. Begin by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily decrease it while following the tips above. You might be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning working all day while your house is empty. Switching the setting 7¬¬–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t useful and usually leads to a bigger electrical cost.

A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your settings under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you go.

If you want a convenient resolution, consider installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, due to your PJ and blanket preference.

We suggest following a comparable test over a week, setting your thermostat higher and progressively lowering it to choose the right temperature for your residence. On cool nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior solution than operating the air conditioner.

More Methods to Use Less Energy During Hot Weather

There are extra ways you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.

1. Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house more comfortable while keeping electrical
costs low.
2. Book regular air conditioning maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and could help it work at better efficiency. It can also help extend its life expectancy, since it helps technicians to find seemingly insignificant issues before they create an expensive meltdown.
3. Replace air filters regularly. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too often, and increase your electrical
costs.
4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
5. 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 lead to huge comfort problems in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep muggy air in its place by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cold air within your home.

Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Luikart Heating & Cooling

If you are looking to use less energy during hot weather, our Luikart Heating & Cooling professionals can provide assistance. Reach us at 740-200-5591 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling products.