Your AC has been working hard for a few weeks now. With summer having arrived, it will continue to work harder in the upcoming months. As a result, this may cause an increase in your energy bills. However, you can find an energy-efficient temperature level to keep your home comfortable while still maintaining your energy consumption reasonably. So, without further ado, join your Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air family to learn about finding the most energy-efficient AC setting to use this summer.
WHAT IS THE MOST ENERGY-EFFICIENT TEMPERATURE?
The perfect AC temperature varies from family to family, and it’s important to understand that there is no universal temperature that suits everyone, everywhere. Of course, location matters too! However, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests the ideal air conditioning temperature is 78°F (26°C). Although this may seem a little high, don’t worry! Think of this as a reference point. If 78°F is comfortable for you – fantastic! If not – no big deal! It may require a little trial and error on your part to determine what energy-efficient temperature fits your home.
HOW CAN YOU DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL ENERGY-EFFICIENT TEMPERATURE?
To start, follow the recommended temperature setting of 78°F for your thermostat. Then, wait for a few hours to let your AC adjust and observe your family’s reaction. You may need to adjust your thermostat accordingly. If you need to, gradually adjust the temperature by 1 or 2 degrees at a time. Then over the next few days, keep adjusting the thermostat slowly until you find the most comfortable temperature that saves energy while keeping your family cool. Just remember, the more you lower your thermostat, the higher your energy consumption rate will be, meaning your energy bill will be higher as well.
IS THERE AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT TEMPERATURE YOU SHOULD USE WHEN YOU GO ON A TRIP?
During summer vacations or weekend getaways, people are often concerned about leaving their homes unattended with the air conditioner on. We get it; that’s energy wasted, right? But please bear in mind that completely turning your AC system off is not advisable as it may lead to heat and humidity damage to houseplants, art, collectibles, and pets like fish. Instead, increasing the thermostat setting by 10 degrees (from your normal temperature) before leaving is recommended. This practice can help save up to 5-15% on energy usage.
WHICH TYPE OF THERMOSTAT IS CONSIDERED THE MOST ENERGY-EFFICIENT?
While standard thermostats work great, have you considered getting a smart thermostat? Smart thermostats have a number of advantages. But for the sole focus of our topic today, we want to stress how helpful a smart thermostat can be in terms of energy efficiency. With a thermostat, you can set a schedule that works around your daily routine and conserves energy in the process. Plus, they are super convenient for those who are apt to travel. For example: If you’re going on a family vacation and forget to adjust the thermostat in the hustle and bustle of things, a smart thermostat would come in handy as you can easily adjust the AC settings from the convenience of your phone, leaving you to enjoy your vacation worry-free. On top of that, this also means you can lower the temperature when you get back home so you can relax immediately upon your arrival. If you have a busy summer ahead and haven’t purchased a smart thermostat yet, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions. We’re here to help and provide answers!
It can be challenging to balance staying cool and comfortable while still controlling your monthly energy consumption, but it is achievable! Lewis Center-Powell Heating & Air is here for you on your energy-saving journey as well as any other cooling concerns you may have! You can reach us at (614) 490-7530 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
