You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or drain your wallet to keep your house at a pleasant temperature during the summer.

But what is the right temp, exactly? We discuss advice from energy specialists so you can determine the best setting for your loved ones.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and outdoor temps, 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 appears too high, there are approaches you can keep your residence pleasant without having the AC running frequently.

Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—indoors. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to deliver more insulation and enhanced energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s since they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too warm initially, try running a test for about a week. Start by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively lower it while using the advice above. You could be amazed at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner going all day while your house is unoccupied. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t productive and usually produces a bigger AC bill.

A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your temperature controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you go.

If you’re looking for a convenient fix, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it instinctively changes temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another advantage of getting a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for many families. Most people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too chilly, due to your PJ and blanket preference.

We recommend using a similar test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and steadily turning it down to pick the right temp for your family. On cool nights, you might learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior solution than operating the AC.

More Methods to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather

There are added methods you can spend less money on AC bills throughout hot weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping electrical bills down.
  2. Book yearly air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating smoothly and may help it work at better efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life cycle, since it enables pros to pinpoint seemingly insignificant troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and drive up your electricity.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the USA don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort issues in your home, including hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it belongs by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air within your home.

Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC

If you are looking to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC specialists can provide assistance. Give us a call at 715-318-6728 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling solutions.