You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at the right temp during warm days.

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

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your indoor and outside temperatures, your electricity bills will be bigger.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that appears warm, there are methods you can keep your residence refreshing without having the air conditioner going frequently.

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

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s because they cool with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too warm on the surface, try conducting a trial for approximately a week. Start by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively decrease it while following the tips above. You may be shocked at how cool you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC running all day while your home is vacant. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you as much as 5–15% on your air conditioning expenses, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t productive and often results in a more expensive electrical cost.

A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your settings in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a convenient remedy, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it intuitively changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another advantage of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and regulate temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be too uncomfortable for most 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 cool, due to your clothing and blanket preference.

We suggest using a comparable test over a week, putting your temp higher and progressively turning it down to pinpoint the ideal temperature for your house. On mild nights, you might learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a preferable option than operating the AC.

More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer

There are extra methods you can spend less money on AC bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence comfier while keeping cooling expenses low.
  2. Book annual air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running like it should and may help it work more efficiently. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it enables professionals to spot seemingly insignificant issues before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Put in new air filters often. Follow manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too much, and drive up your electrical.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in major comfort troubles in your house, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cold air indoors.

Conserve More Energy This Summer with Pliescott HVAC Services LLC

If you are looking to use less energy during warm weather, our Pliescott HVAC Services LLC specialists can help. Get in touch with us at 410-228-4822 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.