You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at the right temp during muggy weather.
But what is the right temp, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy experts so you can select the best temp for your loved ones.
Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Des Moines.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most families find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a big difference between your interior and outside warmth, your utility costs will be higher.
This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.
While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds warm, there are methods you can keep your home pleasant without having the air conditioner running frequently.
Keeping windows and curtains down during the day keeps cool air where it should be—within your home. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to offer added insulation and better energy savings.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s because they cool by a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot at first glance, try doing a test for about a week. Begin by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, progressively lower it while following the suggestions above. You could be astonished at how refreshed you feel at a warmer temperature setting.
While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC going all day while your residence is vacant. Turning the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your cooling bills, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your home faster. This isn’t useful and usually produces a more expensive cooling expense.
A programmable thermostat is a helpful approach to keep your temp under control, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you risk forgetting to increase the set temperature when you go.
If you want a hassle-free solution, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another plus of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and adjust temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that could be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.
We advise using a similar test over a week, moving your temp higher and slowly turning it down to select the best setting for your family. On mild nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than running the AC.
More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather
There are other approaches you can spend less money on energy bills throughout hot weather.
- Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning 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 residence cooler while keeping electrical bills down.
- Set regular air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment running like it should and might help it run more efficiently. It can also help extend its life cycle, since it allows pros to find seemingly insignificant issues before they create a major meltdown.
- Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A dirty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too often, and increase your utility.
- Measure attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of houses in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has separated over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort issues in your house, including hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by sealing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cold air inside.
Conserve More Energy This Summer with Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling
If you are looking to save more energy during hot weather, our Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling experts can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 515-207-6569 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.