You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your residence at a pleasant temperature during muggy weather.

But what is the right temp, exactly? We review advice from energy experts so you can determine the best temperature for your residence.

Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Bishop.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a major difference between your inside and outside temperatures, your electrical expenses will be higher.

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

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems warm, there are methods you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioner going constantly.

Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—within your home. Some window solutions, such as honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver added insulation and better energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can raise thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without compromising comfort. That’s since they cool with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not rooms, shut them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too hot at first glance, try doing a trial for approximately a week. Get started by upping your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, steadily decrease it while using the advice above. You could be astonished at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no rationale for keeping the AC working all day while your house is vacant. Turning the setting 7–10 degrees hotter can save you anywhere from 5–15% on your electricity bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to set your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t useful and typically leads to a bigger air conditioner bill.

A programmable thermostat is a good way to keep your settings in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to increase the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution, consider buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at home and when you’re gone. Then it instinctively adjusts temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another perk of installing a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to keep an eye on and regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR recommends 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for many families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation recommends 65–68 degrees. But that could be too cold, due to your PJ and blanket preference.

We recommend running a comparable test over a week, setting your temperature higher and gradually turning it down to choose the ideal setting for your house. On pleasant nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a preferable option than running the air conditioning.

More Approaches to Save Energy This Summer

There are other approaches you can spend less money on AC bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Get an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your house more comfortable while keeping electrical expenses low.
  2. Set annual air conditioner service. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment operating like it should and may help it run at greater efficiency. It might also help extend its life expectancy, since it helps technicians to discover small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters frequently. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A dusty filter can lead to your system short cycling, or turn on and off too frequently, and drive up your electricity.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the United States don’t have adequate 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 checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can leak cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort problems in your home, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it should be by plugging cracks. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more cool air inside.

Conserve More Energy During Hot Weather with Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning

If you need to use less energy during warm weather, our Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning professionals can help. Reach us at 760-938-9833 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.