Whats the Most Energy-Efficient AC Setting?

You shouldn’t be forced to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your house at the right setting during warm days.

But what is the best temperature, exactly? We go over ideas from energy specialists so you can determine the best temperature for your loved ones.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and exterior warmth, your electrical costs will be bigger.

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

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems warm, there are ways you can keep your house refreshing without having the air conditioner going frequently.

Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps cold air where it belongs—inside. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and improved energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable on the surface, try conducting a test for a week or so. Begin by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily lower it while adhering to the ideas above. You might be shocked at how cool you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning running all day while your house is vacant. Turning the temperature 7¬¬–10 degrees higher can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your AC bills, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t useful and usually results in a higher air conditioner expense.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful method to keep your temperature under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you take off.

If you need a handy resolution, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it intuitively adjusts temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? About $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from almost anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for many families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too cool, due to your pajama and blanket preference.

We recommend running an equivalent test over a week, setting your temp higher and slowly lowering it to determine the best temperature for your family. On mild nights, you may find keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a better solution than using the air conditioning.

More Methods to Use Less Energy During Warm Weather

There are extra ways you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

1. Get an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your house comfier while keeping electricity
expenses low.
2. Book yearly AC maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running like it should and could help it operate more efficiently. It may also help extend its life expectancy, since it helps pros to spot seemingly insignificant issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
3. Change air filters frequently. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too much, and drive up your electricity
costs.
4. Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened as it’s aged can let cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort issues in your home, including hot and cold spots.
6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it should be by closing holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air within your home.

Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling

If you want to use less energy this summer, our Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling specialists can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 515-207-6569 or contact us online for more details about our energy-efficient cooling options.