You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or spend a lot to keep your house at a refreshing temp during hot days.

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

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most households find using the thermostat at 72-73 degrees provides ideal comfort. However, if there’s a huge difference between your inside and outside temps, your electricity expenses will be greater.

This is our advice based on the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR®.

While at home: 78 degrees. While that sounds warm, there are methods you can keep your home pleasant without having the AC running frequently.

Keeping windows and blinds closed during the day keeps chilled air where it should be—inside. Some window treatments, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to provide added insulation and better energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your home, the DOE says you can raise thermostat settings about 4 degrees higher without compromising comfort. That’s because they refresh with a windchill effect. Because they cool people, not areas, shut them off when you exit a room.

If 78 degrees still appears too hot initially, try doing a test for approximately a week. Start by upping your setting to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, progressively decrease it while using the suggestions above. You might be astonished at how refreshed you feel at a hotter temperature setting.

While away: 88 degrees. There’s no need to keep the air conditioner going all day while your home is unoccupied. Switching the setting 7–10 degrees warmer can save you as much as 5–15% on your electricity bills, according to the DOE.

When you arrive home, don’t be tempted to switch your thermostat below 78 to cool your residence more rapidly. This isn’t effective and typically results in a bigger cooling cost.

A programmable thermostat is a good method to keep your temperature in check, but it requires setting programs. If you don’t utilize programs, you run the risk of forgetting to raise the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a handy resolution, consider getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it realizes when you’re at your residence and when you’re out. Then it instinctively modifies temperature settings for the best savings. How much exactly? About $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 regulate temperature settings from almost anywhere.

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

We recommend using a similar test over a week, moving your temp higher and steadily turning it down to pinpoint the ideal temp for your residence. On pleasant nights, you could discover keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a superior solution than running the air conditioner.

More Ways to Conserve Energy During Hot Weather

There are other ways you can save money on cooling bills throughout hot weather.

  1. Upgrade to an energy-efficient cooling system. Central air conditioners only are effective for about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they become older. An updated air conditioner can keep your residence cooler while keeping electricity costs low.
  2. Book annual air conditioner service. Annual air conditioner maintenance keeps your system running like it should and may help it run at greater efficiency. It can also help lengthen its life expectancy, since it helps pros to spot seemingly insignificant troubles before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters frequently. Follow manufacturer instructions for replacing your air filter. A clogged filter can lead to your system short cycling, or run too frequently, and raise your electricity.
  4. Inspect attic insulation levels. Nearly 90% of residences in the U.S. don’t have proper insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Most southern climates should have 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork inspected. Ductwork that has loosened over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can create major comfort troubles in your house, including hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it belongs by plugging openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air inside.

Conserve More Energy During Warm Weather with Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning

If you want to use less energy this summer, our Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning pros can assist you. Give us a call at 630-948-4591 or contact us online for more details about our energy-saving cooling solutions.