Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a pleasant temp during hot days.

But what is the ideal temperature, exactly? We go over advice from energy specialists so you can determine the best temperature for your family.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a big difference between your inside and outdoor temps, your electrical expenses will be larger.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems too high, there are methods you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioning running frequently.

Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—indoors. Some window solutions, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to give extra insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s since they refresh through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not spaces, switch them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too warm on the surface, try running a test for about a week. Begin by raising your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while adhering to the tips above. You may be astonished at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC on all day while your home is vacant. Switching the temp 7¬¬–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your AC expenses, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t useful and typically results in a more expensive cooling cost.

A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your settings in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you risk forgetting to raise the set temperature when you go.

If you want a convenient solution, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another plus of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from almost anywhere.

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

We recommend running a comparable test over a week, setting your thermostat higher and gradually turning it down to choose the best temp for your residence. On cool nights, you might find keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior option than running the air conditioning.

More Ways to Conserve Energy This Summer

There are other methods you can conserve money on air conditioning bills throughout hot weather.

1. Install an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping electricity
costs down.
2. Set yearly AC service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your system working like it should and may help it work more efficiently. It may also help extend its life expectancy, since it allows professionals to find little issues before they create a big meltdown.
3. Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too much, and raise your utility
expenses.
4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has come apart as it’s aged can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in huge comfort problems in your residence, such as hot and cold spots.
6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air indoors.

Save More Energy This Summer with Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning

If you need to save more energy during warm weather, our Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning specialists can assist you. Get in touch with us at 801-305-4777 or contact us online for more info about our energy-saving cooling options.