You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at a refreshing temperature during warm days.

But what is the right setting, exactly? We review advice from energy professionals so you can choose the best setting for your loved ones.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your interior and outdoor temperatures, your electricity expenses 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 seems too high, there are approaches you can keep your home cool without having the AC going constantly.

Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s since they cool through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too warm at first glance, try doing an experiment for approximately a week. Start by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while adhering to the tips above. You may be surprised at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the AC going all day while your residence is unoccupied. Moving the setting 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical costs, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t productive and usually produces a bigger air conditioner expense.

A programmable thermostat is a good approach to keep your temperature in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you go.

If you’re looking for a convenient resolution, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

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

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that may be unpleasant for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.

We suggest following a similar test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and steadily lowering it to select the right temperature for your family. On mild nights, you might learn keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior option than running the air conditioner.

More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer

There are extra approaches you can conserve money on AC bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your house more comfortable while keeping energy bills small.
  2. Schedule regular air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating like it should and might help it operate at greater efficiency. It may also help extend its life expectancy, since it enables techs to uncover small troubles before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and increase your energy.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has separated over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort issues in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air in its place by sealing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air within your home.

Save More Energy This Summer with B & G HVAC

If you need to use less energy during warm weather, our B & G HVAC experts can help. Give us a call at 641-649-4649 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling solutions.