You shouldn’t have to give up comfort or empty your wallet to keep your home at a pleasant temperature during the summer.

But what is the ideal setting, exactly? We discuss suggestions from energy pros so you can choose the best temp for your loved ones.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Cottonwood & Prescott.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and exterior warmth, your utility bills will be higher.

These are our recommendations based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds warm, there are approaches you can keep your house pleasant without having the air conditioner running constantly.

Keeping windows and blinds down during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—inside. Some window coverings, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and enhanced energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can move thermostat temperatures about 4 degrees warmer without giving up comfort. That’s because they freshen by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too warm at first glance, try running an experiment for about a week. Get started by increasing your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively turn it down while using the advice above. You might be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC going all day while your home is vacant. Switching the temp 7–10 degrees higher can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electrical expenses, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t effective and often leads to a higher AC cost.

A programmable thermostat is a useful method to keep your temp in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a convenient resolution, think about getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it knows when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it automatically modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be unbearable for most families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilly, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 60–67 degrees. But that could be too chilly, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.

We recommend using a comparable test over a week, putting your thermostat higher and gradually lowering it to pinpoint the right temp for your residence. On pleasant nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than using the air conditioner.

More Methods to Save Energy During Warm Weather

There are additional approaches you can spend less money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

  1. Buy an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they age. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence more comfortable while keeping utility expenses low.
  2. Set yearly air conditioner service. Regular air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment working smoothly and could help it work at better efficiency. It might also help prolong its life expectancy, since it helps pros to uncover seemingly insignificant issues before they lead to a major meltdown.
  3. Change air filters often. Use 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 energy.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort problems in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep muggy air where it should be by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more conditioned air within your home.

Use Less Energy This Summer with Connolly Electric & Mechanical

If you are looking to use less energy during warm weather, our Connolly Electric & Mechanical pros can help. Give us a call at 928-251-4327 or contact us online for additional information about our energy-saving cooling products.