You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at a refreshing temp during warm days.

But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy pros so you can choose the best temperature for your residence.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your electricity costs 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 hot, there are methods you can keep your residence cool without having the air conditioner running all the time.

Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to provide added insulation and better energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s since they cool with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too hot on the surface, try running a trial for about a week. Get started by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually decrease it while using the suggestions above. You could be surprised at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioning on all day while your home is unoccupied. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees higher 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 switch your thermostat under 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t effective and often produces a bigger air conditioner bill.

A programmable thermostat is a useful approach to keep your temperature under control, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you might forget to move the set temperature when you take off.

If you want a convenient remedy, think about installing a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Typically $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from nearly anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that may be unbearable for many families. Many people sleep better when their bedroom is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, depending on your PJ and blanket preference.

We recommend trying an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and gradually decreasing it to pinpoint the ideal temp for your family. On pleasant nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a superior option than using the air conditioner.

More Approaches to Use Less Energy This Summer

There are added methods you can conserve money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.

  1. Get an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they age. A new air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping utility bills low.
  2. Book annual air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running like it should and could help it work at better efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life cycle, since it helps pros to pinpoint small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too often, and raise your cooling.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the USA don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort troubles in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air within your home.

Use Less Energy During Warm Weather with Point Heating & Cooling

If you are looking to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Point Heating & Cooling professionals can help. Give us a call at 715-814-9741 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling solutions.