You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at a pleasant setting during hot days.
But what is the right temperature, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy professionals so you can choose the best setting for your home.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Fort Lauderdale.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and exterior temperatures, your AC expenses will be higher.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems hot, there are methods you can keep your home refreshing without having the air conditioning running frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver added insulation and enhanced energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temps about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s because they refresh with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too warm initially, try running an experiment for approximately a week. Start by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily lower it while following the advice above. You may be surprised at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning on all day while your residence is unoccupied. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning costs, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t effective and often produces a bigger electrical expense.
A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your temp controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you go.
If you want a convenient resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re away. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? An estimated $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 almost anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for many families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 65–68 degrees. But that may be too cold, based on your clothing and blanket preference.
We advise running a similar test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and steadily turning it down to pick the ideal temperature for your residence. On cool nights, you could find keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than running the air conditioner.
More Methods to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather
There are added approaches you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping utility costs small.
- Schedule regular air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating properly and might help it work at greater efficiency. It could also help lengthen its life cycle, since it allows professionals to spot small troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters regularly. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too frequently, and raise your energy.
- Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in major comfort problems in your residence, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it should be by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air indoors.
Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Solar Air Inc.
If you need to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Solar Air Inc. professionals can assist you. Give us a call at 954-466-0951 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
