You shouldn’t need to give up comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at the right temperature during muggy weather.

But what is the right setting, exactly? We discuss advice from energy pros so you can select the best temp for your loved ones.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most families find placing the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is ideal. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your inside and outdoor warmth, your electricity 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 sounds hot, there are methods you can keep your home cool without having the air conditioner running constantly.

Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps chilled air where it belongs—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are designed to deliver added insulation and enhanced energy savings.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can move thermostat temps about 4 degrees warmer without sacrificing comfort. That’s because they freshen through a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not spaces, turn them off when you move from a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too uncomfortable initially, try running a test for a week or so. Begin by raising your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually turn it down while adhering to the ideas above. You might be amazed at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning working all day while your residence is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your AC expenses, according to the DOE.

When you get home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat under 78 to cool your home more quickly. This isn’t effective and typically produces a higher AC bill.

A programmable thermostat is a useful way to keep your temperature controlled, but you need to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you take off.

If you want a handy fix, think about buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your house and when you’re out. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for maximum savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 yearly on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another benefit of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to monitor and change temperature settings from nearly anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that could be unbearable for the majority of families. The majority of people sleep better when their sleeping area is chilled, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation suggests 60–67 degrees. But that might be too cool, depending on your pajama and blanket preference.

We suggest following an equivalent test over a week, moving your temperature higher and steadily decreasing it to determine the ideal temperature for your residence. On pleasant nights, you may discover keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than using the AC.

More Approaches to Conserve Energy This Summer

There are other approaches you can save money on utility bills throughout warm weather.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient AC 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 house comfier while keeping utility bills low.
  2. Schedule yearly air conditioner maintenance. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit running smoothly and could help it operate at better efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life span, since it allows professionals to find small troubles before they cause a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters frequently. Read manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A clogged filter can cause your system to short cycle, or run too frequently, and raise your cooling.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of houses in the United States don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates require 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can let cold air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to huge comfort troubles in your house, such as hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air where it belongs by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to keep more cold air within your home.

Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Bain Heating & Air Conditioning

If you want to save more energy during warm weather, our Bain Heating & Air Conditioning specialists can assist you. Get in touch with us at 256-270-1196 or contact us online for more information about our energy-saving cooling options.