As summer is here, your AC has likely been working hard for the last few weeks and will continue to do so for the next few months. As a result, you will probably notice a rise in your energy costs. But keep in mind that although utilizing your air conditioner this summer is inevitable, you can choose an energy-efficient temperature to maintain a comfortable and cool home while still controlling your energy usage. Join your Huber Heights Heating & Cooling family as we discuss how you can find your own optimal energy-efficient AC setting for the upcoming summer.
Do You Know What Is the Recommended AC Setting?
We believe there is no universal “perfect number” for setting your air conditioner. What might be effective for one family in a certain location might not be so for another family. However, there is a starting point that may prove useful in determining your own optimal AC setting. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that 78°F (26°C) is the ideal temperature for air conditioning. While this may seem high for you, just remember that what works for someone else may not work for you. This temperature can be a useful reference point to help you find the best setting for you and your family!
Do You Know How to Find Your Ideal AC Setting?
To begin, set your thermostat to 78°F, which is the recommended temperature. Wait for a few hours to allow your AC to adjust and observe how your household responds to the change in temperature. Then, adjust the temperature by 1 or 2 degrees at a time as needed. Keep doing this for the next few days until you find a temperature that keeps your family comfortable and minimizes energy consumption.
Does the Temperature Need to Be Raised When You’re on a Trip?
During the summer, when you’re away from home on vacation or a weekend getaway, you may need to decide what to do with your running air conditioner. Turning off the AC completely is not recommended as it may cause heat and humidity to build up inside your house, which could harm your houseplants, art, collectibles, or even small pets (I.e., a fish tank). So, what should you do? If you have plans for summer and want to save energy while you’re away, increase your thermostat by 10 degrees before leaving the house. This won’t harm your home or belongings and can save you up to 5-15% on energy costs.
Does a Smart Thermostat Aid in Energy Conservation?
Consider purchasing a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. It can help with your energy savings goals by allowing you to schedule your temperature settings according to your daily routine. This results in an efficient energy consumption pattern. Imagine this: You organized a wonderful family vacation, but in the midst of all the preparations, you forgot to adjust your thermostat before leaving the house. As a result, the air conditioner will be running constantly with no one at home for more than a week. However, you can solve this problem by using your smartphone to change the AC settings. Voila! Now, you no longer need to worry about wasting energy during your trip. Additionally, you can reset the temperature to a comfortable level before returning home, which will help you relax the moment you step inside. So, if you have a lot going on in your summer schedule and you don’t have a smart thermostat yet, why not contact us? We’d be happy to address any inquiries you have.
It can be challenging to balance staying cool and comfortable while controlling your monthly energy consumption, but it is possible. Remember, we are here for all your cooling needs, so if you have any AC concerns, call Huber Heights Heating & Cooling today at (937) 226-9675, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
