Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a refreshing temperature during summer weather.

But what is the ideal setting, exactly? We review ideas from energy professionals so you can choose the best temp for your house.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Beckley and Mount Hope.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a big difference between your interior and outdoor temperatures, your electrical expenses will be greater.

These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems too high, there are approaches you can keep your residence cool without having the air conditioning going frequently.

Keeping windows and curtains closed during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver more insulation and better energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they refresh through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable initially, try running a test for approximately a week. Start by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily turn it down while adhering to the suggestions above. You could be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the AC on all day while your residence is unoccupied. Turning the temperature 7¬¬–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t effective and typically results in a bigger air conditioner bills.

A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temperature in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to increase the set temperature when you leave.

If you need a convenient fix, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of having 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 could be unbearable for the majority of families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that may be too chilly, based on your PJ and blanket preference.

We suggest using a similar test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and gradually decreasing it to choose the best setting for your family. On pleasant nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior solution than using the AC.

More Methods to Save Energy During Warm Weather

There are extra ways you can conserve money on energy bills throughout hot weather.

1. Buy an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home more comfortable while keeping cooling
bills small.
2. Set yearly air conditioning tune-ups. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit working smoothly and may help it operate at better efficiency. It could also help lengthen its life span, since it enables technicians to spot small troubles before they cause a big meltdown.
3. Switch air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too often, and raise your cooling
expenses.
4. Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in big comfort problems in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air within your home.

Use Less Energy This Summer with Appalachian Heating

If you need to use less energy during hot weather, our Appalachian Heating specialists can assist you. Get in touch with us at 304-707-0600 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling options.