You shouldn’t be forced to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your residence at the right setting during the summer.

But what is the right setting, exactly? We go over ideas from energy experts so you can determine the best temp for your home.

Here’s what we suggest for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Mount Pleasant.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outdoor temperatures, your electricity expenses 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 appears hot, there are ways you can keep your residence pleasant without having the air conditioning running frequently.

Keeping windows and window treatments closed during the day keeps cold air where it should be—indoors. Some window treatments, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to provide extra insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s due to the fact they refresh through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too hot at first glance, try running a trial for a week or so. Get started by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively decrease it while adhering to the suggestions above. You might be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the AC running all day while your home is unoccupied. Moving the temp 7–10 degrees warmer can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electricity costs, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t useful and typically produces a more expensive electrical cost.

A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your temp controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it automatically adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 annually on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another plus of getting 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 suggests 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for the majority of families. The majority of people sleep better when their bedroom is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.

We recommend following a similar test over a week, moving your temp higher and progressively turning it down to find the ideal temp for your family. On pleasant nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than running the air conditioner.

More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather

There are additional methods you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

  1. Buy 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 utility costs small.
  2. Set regular air conditioner maintenance. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating properly and may help it work at greater efficiency. It might also help lengthen its life span, since it allows professionals to discover seemingly insignificant troubles before they lead to a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters often. Follow manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or turn on and off too frequently, and raise your energy.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can leak cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort troubles in your home, including hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal openings, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging holes. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cool air indoors.

Save More Energy During Warm Weather with Olde Towne Heating & Air

If you want to use less energy during hot weather, our Olde Towne Heating & Air pros can provide assistance. Give us a call at 843-485-0967 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling products.