You shouldn’t be forced to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing temperature during muggy weather.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We go over ideas from energy specialists so you can select the best setting for your residence.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Crystal and Twin Cities.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households 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 utility bills 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 sounds warm, there are approaches you can keep your house pleasant without having the AC going constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cold air where it needs to be—inside. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to give more insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.
If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they freshen by a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot initially, try running a test for approximately a week. Get started by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively turn it down while following the ideas above. You may be shocked at how cool you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioning going all day while your residence is vacant. Turning the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your cooling costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t effective and typically produces a bigger air conditioner cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temperature under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you leave.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re away. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? About $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that may be unbearable for many families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, based on your PJ and blanket preference.
We suggest trying a comparable test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and progressively turning it down to find the best temp for your family. On mild nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the AC.
More Methods to Save Energy This Summer
There are other approaches you can spend less money on utility bills throughout the summer.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping energy costs small.
- Book yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating properly and might help it run at better efficiency. It may also help prolong its life span, since it enables pros to find little issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Follow manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too much, and drive up your electricity.
- Check attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has separated over time can leak cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in major comfort issues in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air inside.
Conserve More Energy During Hot Weather with GV Heating & Air
If you are looking to use less energy during hot weather, our GV Heating & Air specialists can help. Give us a call at 763-535-2000 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
