You shouldn’t have to compromise on comfort or spend a lot to keep your home at a pleasant setting during summer weather.

But what is the ideal temp, exactly? We review ideas from energy specialists so you can select the best temp for your residence.

Here’s what we advise for the most energy-efficient setting for air conditioning in Excelsior Springs.

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a huge difference between your indoor and outside temps, your electrical expenses will be larger.

These are our suggestions based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that seems too high, there are approaches you can keep your house cool without having the air conditioning running constantly.

Keeping windows and curtains down during the day keeps cold air where it should be—within your home. Some window coverings, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to give extra insulation and enhanced energy efficiency.

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 since they cool by a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too uncomfortable on the surface, try conducting a trial for a week or so. Start by increasing your thermostat to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively lower it while using the tips above. You might be shocked at how cool you feel at a higher temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no reason to keep the air conditioning going all day while your house is empty. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you an estimated 5–15% on your electricity expenses, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence faster. This isn’t effective and usually leads to a higher electricity expense.

A programmable thermostat is a helpful way to keep your temp in check, but you have to set programs. If you don’t use programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you go.

If you need a convenient resolution, think over buying a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your house and when you’re away. Then it intuitively changes temperature settings for the best 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 watch and regulate temperature settings from nearly anywhere.

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

We advise using an equivalent test over a week, setting your temp higher and slowly decreasing it to locate the ideal temperature for your house. On cool nights, you could learn keeping windows open at night and running a ceiling fan is a better idea than operating the air conditioner.

More Ways to Save Energy During Hot Weather

There are other approaches you can spend less money on energy bills throughout the summer.

1. Install an energy-efficient air conditioning system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and get less efficient as they become older. A new air conditioner can keep your home cooler while keeping energy bills small.
2. Book yearly air conditioner tune-ups. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your unit operating like it should and may help it run at better efficiency. It may also help extend its life expectancy, since it helps professionals to uncover small problems before they lead to a major meltdown.
3. Change air filters often. Read manufacturer instructions for changing your air filter. A clogged filter can result in your system short cycling, or switch on and off too often, and raise your electricity.
4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of houses in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. The majority of southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates require 16–18”.
5. Have your ductwork examined. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep conditioned air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to major comfort troubles in your home, including hot and cold spots.
6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep humid air in its place by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to seal more conditioned air within your home.

Conserve More Energy This Summer with Colvin's Heating and Cooling

If you are looking to save more energy this summer, our Colvin's Heating and Cooling experts can assist you. Reach us at 816-379-3918 or contact us online for additional details about our energy-saving cooling products.