Summer is here, and with it comes the battle against scorching temperatures. While cranking down the AC might seem like the perfect solution, it can also lead to skyrocketing energy bills. So, what’s the happy medium? How can you stay cool without breaking the bank?
The answer lies in finding the ideal energy-efficient temperature for your air conditioner. While the magic number often thrown around is 78 degrees, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance between comfort and cost:
Adjusting the Thermostat Throughout the Day:
- While You’re Home: Aim for 78 degrees. This might seem a tad warm initially, but there are ways to enhance the cooling effect without lowering the thermostat further. Here are some tips:
- Embrace Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans create a windchill effect, allowing you to raise the thermostat by about 4 degrees without sacrificing comfort. Remember to turn them off in empty rooms.
- Block the Sun: Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to prevent hot sunlight from heating your home. Consider window treatments like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters for added insulation.
- Test It Out: If 78 degrees feels too warm, try raising the temperature gradually for a week while implementing the tips above. You might be surprised at how comfortable a slightly warmer setting can be.
- While You’re Away: Bump it up to 88 degrees. There’s no point in running the AC all day if the house is empty. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, raising the temperature by 7-10 degrees while you’re away can save you 5-15% on your energy bills. Here’s what to avoid:
- The Rapid Cool Down: Don’t crank the AC down to its lowest setting when you return home. This is inefficient and can lead to higher costs.
- Programmable Thermostats: These are a great way to automate temperature adjustments, but only if you use them! Consider a smart thermostat if you tend to forget to manually adjust the settings. Smart thermostats connect to your phone and automatically adjust the temperature based on your location, saving you up to $180 annually on heating and cooling according to ENERGY STAR.
- Sleeping: Finding the perfect sleep temperature can be tricky. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, many people find this too warm for restful sleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a range of 60-67 degrees, but that might be too chilly for some. Here’s what you can do:
- Test and Adjust: Experiment with different temperatures over a week, gradually adjusting the thermostat up or down to find your personal sweet spot.
- Natural Cooling: On pleasant nights, consider opening windows and using a ceiling fan instead of relying solely on the AC.
Beyond the Thermostat: Energy Saving Tips
- Upgrade Your AC: Consider replacing an old, inefficient air conditioner with a newer, energy-efficient model. This can significantly reduce your cooling costs.
- Schedule Maintenance: Regular AC maintenance keeps your unit running smoothly and efficiently, potentially extending its lifespan.
- Change Air Filters: Replace your air filter regularly as per the manufacturer’s instructions. A clogged filter can lead to decreased efficiency and higher energy bills.
- Insulate Your Attic: Proper attic insulation prevents heat from entering your living space. Aim for 13-14 inches of insulation in southern climates and 16-18 inches in northern climates.
- Seal Leaks: Keep cool air inside your home by sealing cracks, gaps around doors and windows.
Call Roots HVAC for a Cooler, More Efficient Summer
Following these tips can help you find the perfect balance between comfort and energy savings. But if you’re still struggling with keeping your home cool or your AC bills are soaring, Roots HVAC is here to help! Our experienced technicians can diagnose any AC issues you might have and recommend solutions to keep your home cool and your energy bills low.
Contact Roots HVAC today and enjoy a comfortable, energy-efficient summer!
