You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the best temp, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy experts so you can select the best temperature for your loved ones.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Redding.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outside temperatures, your AC bills will be higher.
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 cool without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.
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 refresh through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too uncomfortable initially, try conducting a trial for about a week. Get started by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily turn it down while adhering to the tips above. You may be astonished 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 empty. Turning the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your cooling costs, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t useful and often leads to a more expensive air conditioner cost.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temperature controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you need a convenient remedy, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? About $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of getting 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 might be too uncomfortable for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, depending on your PJ and blanket preference.
We recommend following a comparable test over a week, moving your temp higher and slowly lowering it to find the right temp for your house. On cool nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the AC.
More Ways to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather
There are additional methods you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping electrical costs low.
- Schedule annual air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running smoothly and might help it operate at greater efficiency. It can also help extend its life span, since it helps technicians to find small troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Switch air filters frequently. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too much, and increase your electrical.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the United States don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort problems in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
- 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 conditioned air inside.
Save More Energy This Summer with Allianz Heating & Air
If you need to use less energy this summer, our Allianz Heating & Air specialists can help. Reach us at 530-221-2642 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.
