You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a pleasant temp during summer weather.
But what is the best temperature, exactly? We review recommendations from energy pros so you can choose the best temperature for your family.
Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Des Moines.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outside temps, your AC expenses will be larger.
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 house pleasant without having the air conditioning running constantly.
Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—indoors. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide more insulation and enhanced energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they cool by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.
If 78 degrees still seems too hot initially, try doing a trial for a week or so. Begin by raising your setting to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively lower it while using the advice above. You could be amazed at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioning running all day while your home is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.
When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your house more rapidly. This isn’t effective and usually produces a bigger cooling cost.
A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your temp in check, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you want a hassle-free resolution, think over installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus 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 advises 82 degrees, that could be unpleasant for many families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, due to your clothing and blanket preference.
We advise following a comparable test over a week, moving your thermostat higher and gradually lowering it to choose the ideal temperature for your family. On mild nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a better idea than operating the air conditioning.
More Approaches to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather
There are other approaches you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping cooling expenses low.
- Schedule annual air conditioner maintenance. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working like it should and might help it operate at greater efficiency. It may also help extend its life cycle, since it helps technicians to pinpoint small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
- Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too much, and raise your cooling.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of homes in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort problems in your home, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by closing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air within your home.
Conserve More Energy This Summer with Heartland Heating & Cooling
If you want to use less energy this summer, our Heartland Heating & Cooling pros can assist you. Reach us at 515-344-3579 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.