As the summer season progresses, we rely on our air conditioning systems to keep us comfortable indoors. With the increasing outdoor heat, your AC unit may be working harder than ever, leading to higher energy bills. As a result, you may be wondering how you can more efficiently keep your thermostat at an energy-saving temperature. The good news is we can happily guide you through this! So, join the Madeira Heating & Air family as we talk about learning how to find the most energy-efficient setting for your AC this summer.
WHAT IS THE MOST ENERGY-EFFICIENT AC SETTING?
The Suggested Temperature- It is important to note that there is not one perfect AC temperature that is comfortable for everyone. The temperature that feels comfortable for one family may not feel comfortable for another. However, to give you an idea of where to start, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your air conditioning to 78°F (26°C). While this temperature might seem warm, keep in mind that your ideal temperature may vary from others. Use this recommended temperature as a reference point to help you determine the temperature that is best for you and your family.
The Method to Pinpoint Your Own Energy-Efficient AC Temperature- To start saving energy with your AC, set the thermostat at 78°F and give it a few hours to adjust. Pay attention to how your family feels and make small adjustments of 1 or 2 degrees at a time over the next few days until you find the perfect temperature that keeps everyone comfortable while using less energy.
The AC Temperature to Use on Trips- When you go on vacation or a weekend getaway in the summer, don’t turn off your air conditioner completely. If you do so, it can cause heat and humidity damage to your home and belongings, such as houseplants, art, collectibles, or even small pets like fish. Instead, increase your thermostat setting by 10 degrees before leaving, which can save up to 5-15% on energy usage.
The Most Energy-Efficient Thermostat- What type of thermostat do you have at home? While standard thermostats are great, smart thermostats can be really beneficial in terms of energy efficiency and convenience. Smart thermostats are convenient as they allow you to set a schedule that can adjust to your daily routine and can help you reach your energy-saving goals. Give it a try and experience the benefits. Still unsure? Consider this situation: You have planned an exciting and well-planned family vacation, but amidst the chaos of preparing to leave the house, you forgot to modify the thermostat settings. As a result, the air conditioner is running at full capacity even though no one is home. However, you can use your phone to change the AC settings and enjoy your vacation without any worries. You can also adjust the temperature to a comfortable level when you return home so that you can relax immediately. If you have an upcoming busy summer and you don’t already have a smart thermostat, you can contact us with any questions. We would be glad to provide answers!
It can be challenging to maintain a comfortable temperature while also controlling your monthly energy usage, but it is achievable. Call Madeira Heating & Air for all your energy-saving and AC needs at (513) 655-5125, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
