Running your AC nonstop to combat the summer heat can really run up your monthly energy bills and turn out to be quite costly. So, how can you find the perfect temperature to set your thermostat at during this summer season? There’s got to be a magic number, right? Join Beavercreek Heating & Cooling as we walk you through a few variables to find your perfect temperature and “sweet spot” for a more energy-efficient AC setting.
WHAT’S THE RECOMMENDED AIR CONDITIONER TEMPERATURE?
The US Department of Energy has stated that 78° is the ideal temperature for homeowners to set their thermostats on throughout the summer. Though it’s no doubt that setting your thermostat on this particular number will result in accumulated energy savings, we also understand that there is no universal temperature setting that’s one and done and will work for everyone! For this reason, we believe it may take some trial and error on your part to find that perfect medium to keep you cool and comfortable whilst still conjuring up some energy savings this season.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO FIND YOUR PERFECT AC TEMPERATURE?
Finding your most optimal temperature will require a bit of experimentation on your end. But with the recommended 78° F as your starting point, you already have a great place to start! Try setting your thermostat on this number for a few hours. This should be an ample amount of time to find out if your household members are comfortable with this range. Depending on how everyone reacts, you can then adjust the temperature one or two degrees at a time over the next couple of days. One thing to keep in mind is that per the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the average temperature for most residences is between 73°F to 79°F. So, as you work to find what works best for you and your home, bear in mind that the lower you set your thermostat’s temperature, the higher your energy bill will be.
WHAT TEMPERATURE SETTING SHOULD YOU USE WHEN YOU’RE AWAY?
Summer means many things, but it also means summer vacations and trips! So, what setting should your thermostat be on when you’re away from home base for a while? Naturally, you’d want to conserve as much energy as possible – especially without anyone at home to reap the benefits of the cool air. However, you don’t want to set your temperature so high that your household items, like plants and collectibles, are compromised in the process. Therefore, a good rule of thumb is to turn your thermostat up by 10 degrees from your usual summer temperature when you are away.
WHAT TYPE OF THERMOSTAT DO YOU HAVE?
If you have a smart thermostat or programmable thermostat, this can aid in your energy-saving endeavors. It’s easy to forget to raise your thermostat’s temperature before leaving for a trip, so if you happen to forget this small task before setting out, just remember that with a smart thermostat, you can simply adjust your thermostat’s temperature setting from the ease of your phone. On the same hand, you can adjust your thermostat’s temperature back to a more comfortable level for your arrival back from vacation. Convenience and energy savings – yes, please! So, if you don’t have a smart or programmable thermostat yet, call us, and we’d be glad to discuss the details of having one installed in your home!
Staying cool while producing cost-energy savings isn’t impossible. With proper information and through some trial and error, you can surely find the optimal temperature for your home this summer. Have any more questions? Call Beavercreek Heating & Cooling today at (937) 708-8527, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
