Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your home at a refreshing temp during summer weather.

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

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and exterior temps, your electrical expenses 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 appears too high, there are methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the air conditioning running all the time.

Keeping windows and curtains down during the day keeps cold air where it belongs—within your home. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to give added insulation and better energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they freshen with a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too hot at first glance, try conducting a test for approximately a week. Begin by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily decrease it while using the suggestions above. You may be shocked at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the AC going all day while your residence is unoccupied. Moving the temp 7¬¬–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electrical costs, 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 useful and usually results in a more expensive air conditioner expense.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temperature under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free remedy, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it intuitively changes temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.

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

We suggest using a similar test over a week, moving your temperature higher and gradually decreasing it to select the right temperature for your house. On mild nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the AC.

More Ways to Save Energy During Warm Weather

There are extra ways you can save money on AC bills throughout hot weather.

1. Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping cooling
bills down.
2. Schedule annual AC maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating properly and could help it work at greater efficiency. It could also help prolong its life span, since it allows professionals to spot small issues before they cause a big meltdown.
3. Switch air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and drive up your utility
expenses.
4. Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has separated over the years can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort problems in your residence, such as hot and cold spots.
6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air inside.

Save More Energy This Summer with McFadden Heating & Cooling

If you need to save more energy this summer, our McFadden Heating & Cooling experts can provide assistance. Reach us at 1-866-781-0111 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-conserving cooling solutions.