You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy experts so you can choose the best temp for your family.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Lincoln.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a major difference between your interior and exterior temps, your utility bills will be bigger.
These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds too high, there are approaches you can keep your home refreshing without having the air conditioning going frequently.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to offer extra insulation and better 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 due to the fact they cool with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not rooms, turn them off when you exit a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot on the surface, try running a test for about a week. Get started by upping your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, gradually lower it while adhering to the suggestions above. You might be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a higher temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the AC going all day while your house is empty. Moving the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your air conditioning expenses, according to the DOE.
When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your house faster. This isn’t effective and often produces a higher air conditioner cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your settings in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.
If you need a handy resolution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it intuitively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another perk of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from just about anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 65–68 degrees. But that might be too cool, due to your PJ and blanket preference.
We suggest trying a similar test over a week, putting your temp higher and progressively turning it down to locate the right temperature for your residence. On mild nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better solution than using the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Save Energy This Summer
There are added ways you can conserve money on AC bills throughout hot weather.
- Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping electrical bills small.
- Book annual air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating properly and may help it operate at better efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it enables techs to spot seemingly insignificant troubles before they create a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters regularly. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and raise your energy.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort issues in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep warm air in its place by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air indoors.
Save More Energy During Warm Weather with AW Heating & Air Conditioning
If you want to save more energy during hot weather, our AW Heating & Air Conditioning pros can assist you. Reach us at 402-438-7992 or contact us online for more details about our energy-saving cooling solutions.
