You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at the right temperature during the summer.
But what is the best temp, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy experts so you can determine the best setting for your house.
Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Moscow.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer
Most people find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor temperatures, your electrical expenses will be bigger.
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 residence pleasant without having the air conditioning running all the time.
Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cold air where it should be—indoors. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to offer added insulation and improved energy conservation.
If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without giving up comfort. That’s because they refresh by a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you leave a room.
If 78 degrees still appears too hot on the surface, try conducting a trial for about a week. Begin by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, gradually turn it down while adhering to the ideas above. You may 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 working all day while your residence is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical costs, according to the DOE.
When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t effective and often leads to a bigger electricity bill.
A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your settings under control, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you take off.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free resolution, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat works with with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? Usually $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.
Another advantage of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.
While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR suggests 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for most families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 65–68 degrees. But that might be too chilly, due to your pajama and blanket preference.
We advise following a comparable test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and progressively decreasing it to pinpoint the right temperature for your residence. On pleasant nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a better solution than operating the air conditioner.
More Approaches to Conserve Energy This Summer
There are added methods you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.
- Buy an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your house cooler while keeping electrical bills down.
- Schedule regular air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running properly and may help it operate at greater efficiency. It could also help prolong its life expectancy, since it allows professionals to find small problems before they create a major meltdown.
- Put in new air filters frequently. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dirty filter can cause your system to short cycle, or switch on and off too frequently, and drive up your cooling.
- Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
- Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has come apart over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can result in big comfort problems in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
- Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air indoors.
Save More Energy This Summer with Redinger Heating & Cooling
If you want to conserve more energy during hot weather, our Redinger Heating & Cooling specialists can provide assistance. Get in touch with us at 208-882-8152 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.
