Summers are getting notoriously hotter. That is why having a good home cooling system is essential. The problem is that the lower the temperature you maintain in your home during the summer, the harder your AC system has to work to keep it there. You want to feel natural comfort indoors, but you don’t want to pay a high energy bill—knowing what temperature to set is critical if you want to save the most money and put the least strain on your AC unit.
What Is the Right AC Temperature?
The US Department of Energy recommends keeping your thermostat at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s thought to be the “magic number” for saving money. Remember that the closer the thermostat is set to the outside temperature, the less money you will spend in the long run. And, because 78 degrees is still considered comfortable for some people, it’s worthwhile to sacrifice a little extra heat to save money.
You can’t take the heat? Every few hours, adjust your thermostat by a few degrees. Stop when you reach a temperature that you believe will be comfortable for you. The higher the temperature, the better, but you don’t want to be in a sweat lodge! Turn up the AC to around 85 degrees while you’re gone. This can result in a 10% reduction in your annual payment. Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit while sleeping, and use a light sheet instead of a blanket.
The Position of the Thermostat Is Key
The thermostat, which regulates the temperature and helps keep your energy costs low, is one of the most important pieces of equipment in your home. Many people, however, are unaware that the thermostat’s location significantly impacts its performance. If possible, position your thermostat to match the natural airflow in the space. You don’t want it to be in the sun all day because it will artificially raise the temperature around the thermostat. It will have the same effect if it is near a drafty window, artificially raising or lowering the temperature based on the draft. Put the thermostat against an interior wall, away from windows, skylights, entrances, and furniture, and conveniently located. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your thermostat is working correctly and maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home.
Do You Have a Programmable or Smart Thermostat?
With a programmed or smart thermostat, your HVAC system will learn the necessary temperatures to set itself at the appropriate times. The thermostat will remember when you wake up, go to work, return home, and go to bed and adjust based on your temperature preferences. That means you don’t have to worry about remembering to set it yourself—or about forgetting and wasting the energy savings that would come from having the right temperature at the right time. If you forget, or if your settings become jumbled, a smart thermostat usually works with an app, allowing you to adjust the temperature in your home whether you’re home or not.
Energy- Efficient
As the summer heat comes in, many people turn up the air conditioning to be cool and comfortable. Running AC, however, can significantly drain your energy costs and the environment. You can do a few basic things to ensure that your air conditioner is as efficient as possible:
- Ensure that your air conditioner is appropriately suited for your home. An air conditioner that is too big or too small will not work as well as one that is just right.
- It vital to keep your AC in good working order. This entails changing the filters regularly and having them serviced by an expert.
- If you’re considering an AC installation in Bolingbrook, IL, make sure it is energy-efficient.
By following these measures, you can stay cool all summer while still being good to your wallet and the environment.
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