As temperatures rise this summer, we rely on air conditioning to keep us cool. But it’s important to balance our comfort with energy efficiency temperatures to keep our energy bills a little bit more controlled. Naturally, with everything rising price-wise, finding ways to save here and there when you can is always a good idea. So, without further ado, join your Springboro Heating & Cooling family as we discuss the best energy-efficient AC temperatures for a comfortable and eco-friendly summer.
WHAT THINGS SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT ENERGY EFFICIENCY?
Let’s first understand the concept of energy efficiency before discussing ideal AC temperatures. Energy efficiency means achieving comfort using minimum energy. By using energy-efficient practices, we can save money on energy bills, which is, as we mentioned earlier – highly beneficial these days.
During summer months, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 78°F (25.5°C), which is energy-efficient and comfortable. Although you might find this temperature high (and we wouldn’t blame you), it does strike a good balance between comfort and efficiency. However, please note that this is a reference guide only, and there is not one universal temperature that will be suitable for everyone and everywhere. You can use this as a guide to set a starting point and then adjust the temperature based on your household’s comfort and requirements for maximum energy efficiency. Just don’t forget that setting the thermostat at a lower temperature will result in higher energy bills.
WHAT IS THE BEST STRATEGY FOR DETERMINING YOUR SUMMER ENERGY-EFFICIENT TEMPERATURE?
To determine your ideal temperature, you will need to experiment. However, you can begin with the recommended starting point of 78°F. Set your thermostat at this temperature for a few hours to see if everyone in your home is comfortable. Based on their response, you can gradually adjust the temperature by one or two degrees over the next few days. It’s good to remember that ASHRAE recommends keeping the temperature for most homes between 73°F to 79°F. When adjusting your thermostat, keep in mind that lowering the temperature will result in higher energy bills.
WHAT ARE SOME ADDITIONAL WAYS YOU CAN PRACTICE ENERGY EFFICIENCY?
- Keeping your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day is recommended to prevent heat from entering your room through sunlight.
- Consider using reflective films or energy-efficient window coverings to prevent heat from transferring through your windows. Although it may seem small, this can have a significant impact.
- To keep your home cool and prevent hot air from coming inside, it’s important to seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork.
- To reduce the stress on your cooling system, refrain from using appliances that generate heat during peak hours.
- If you don’t have a smart thermostat yet, it’s worth considering getting one. It can learn your habits and automatically adjust the temperature for you.
To stay comfortable and environmentally conscious in the summer, it’s important to balance coolness and energy conservation. You can do this by setting appropriate temperatures, using fans and ventilation, controlling humidity, and practicing energy efficiency. Finding the right balance between personal comfort and sustainability is key.
Call Springboro Heating & Cooling for all your cooling and AC needs today at (937) 600-6834, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
