You shouldn’t need to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at a pleasant temperature during warm days.

But what is the best temperature, exactly? We discuss ideas from energy professionals so you can determine the best setting for your family.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outside temps, your utility expenses will be higher.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds too high, there are methods you can keep your house cool without having the air conditioner going all the time.

Keeping windows and window treatments shut during the day keeps cool air where it belongs—inside. Some window treatments, including honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are created to deliver extra insulation and improved energy efficiency.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without giving up comfort. That’s because they freshen with a windchill effect. As they cool people, not spaces, shut them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still seems too warm at first glance, try conducting an experiment for a week or so. Begin by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your residence. Then, steadily turn it down while adhering to the ideas above. You could be shocked at how comfortable you feel at a higher temperature setting.

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

When you get home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your residence more quickly. This isn’t useful and often leads to a more expensive electrical expense.

A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your settings controlled, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.

If you’re looking for a convenient resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat connects with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your residence and when you’re away. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? About $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of using a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and regulate temperature settings from just about anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that might be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Many people sleep better when their sleeping space is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cold, based on your clothing and blanket preference.

We recommend trying an equivalent test over a week, setting your temp higher and gradually turning it down to locate the best setting for your residence. On mild nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a superior idea than running the air conditioner.

More Approaches to Save Energy During Hot Weather

There are added methods you can conserve money on AC bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only work for about 12–15 years and become less efficient as they get older. A new air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping utility expenses down.
  2. Set yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your system operating like it should and might help it operate more efficiently. It can also help lengthen its life cycle, since it enables pros to find small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Replace air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too much, and raise your electrical.
  4. Check attic insulation levels. Just about 90% of homes in the United States don’t have adequate insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 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 troubles in your house, including hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal cracks, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air indoors.

Conserve More Energy This Summer with Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc

If you are looking to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc professionals can assist you. Reach us at 662-281-1231 or contact us online for additional info about our energy-saving cooling products.