You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right temperature during the summer.

But what is the ideal setting, exactly? We discuss recommendations from energy professionals so you can select the best setting for your home.

Here’s what we recommend for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Delray Beach.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and outside temps, your utility costs 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 seems hot, there are methods you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioning on constantly.

Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps cool air where it needs to be—indoors. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to offer extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your house, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees higher without sacrificing comfort. That’s due to the fact they cool through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too warm at first glance, try running a test for a week or so. Begin by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re home. Then, progressively decrease it while following the advice above. You might be astonished at how comfortable you feel at a warmer temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the air conditioner running all day while your home is unoccupied. Moving the temperature 7–10 degrees hotter can save you as much as 5–15% on your cooling expenses, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t useful and typically results in a bigger electricity expense.

A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temp controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you risk forgetting to change the set temperature when you leave.

If you want a hassle-free resolution, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it knows when you’re at home and when you’re out. Then it automatically changes temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and adjust temperature settings from almost anywhere.

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

We recommend trying an equivalent test over a week, setting your temperature higher and gradually decreasing it to choose the right temperature for your house. On cool nights, you might discover keeping windows open at night and using a ceiling fan is a preferable idea than using the air conditioning.

More Ways to Save Energy This Summer

There are added approaches you can save money on cooling bills throughout the summer.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. An upgraded air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping electrical bills down.
  2. Book annual air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running like it should and may help it run at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it helps pros to uncover small problems before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters frequently. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and raise your electricity.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates should have 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has come apart over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create big comfort problems in your home, including hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep warm air where it belongs by closing cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more cool air inside.

Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Kilbourne Heating & AC

If you need to use less energy during hot weather, our Kilbourne Heating & AC experts can assist you. Give us a call at 561-287-7071 or contact us online for extra information about our energy-saving cooling options.