You shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort or empty your wallet to keep your home at the right temp during summer weather.

But what is the right temp, exactly? We go over suggestions from energy pros so you can determine the best temperature for your loved ones.

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

Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer

Most people find setting the thermostat at 72-73 degrees is most comfortable. However, if there’s a sizeable difference between your inside and outside temps, your electricity bills 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 appears too high, there are ways you can keep your home pleasant without having the AC running frequently.

Keeping windows and window treatments down during the day keeps chilled air where it needs to be—inside. Some window solutions, like honeycomb shades or plantation shutters, are made to offer added insulation and improved energy conservation.

If you have ceiling fans in your residence, the DOE says you can increase thermostat settings about 4 degrees hotter without compromising comfort. That’s because they cool through a windchill effect. Since they cool people, not areas, switch them off when you leave a room.

If 78 degrees still feels too warm at first glance, try doing a test for approximately a week. Get started by increasing your temperature to 78 degrees while you’re at your house. Then, gradually lower it while using the ideas above. You may 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 running all day while your residence is vacant. Switching the temperature 7–10 degrees higher can save you as much as 5–15% on your electricity bills, according to the DOE.

When you come home, don’t be tempted to put your thermostat colder than 78 to cool your home more rapidly. This isn’t effective and usually leads to a more expensive electrical bill.

A programmable thermostat is a good approach to keep your temp controlled, but you have to set programs. If you don’t set programs, you run the risk of forgetting to move the set temperature when you leave.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free solution, think over getting a smart thermostat. This thermostat links with your phone, so it is aware when you’re at your residence and when you’re gone. Then it intuitively modifies temperature settings for the biggest savings. How much exactly? An estimated $180 each year on heating and cooling, according to ENERGY STAR.

Another plus of having a smart thermostat? You can use your phone to watch and change temperature settings from almost anywhere.

While sleeping: Around 70 degrees. While ENERGY STAR advises 82 degrees, that may be too uncomfortable for the majority of families. Most people sleep better when their sleeping area is cold, so that’s why the National Sleep Foundation advises 60–67 degrees. But that may be too chilly, based on your pajama and blanket preference.

We suggest running an equivalent test over a week, putting your temp higher and progressively turning it down to select the right temperature for your residence. On mild nights, you may learn keeping windows open at night and relying on a ceiling fan is a preferable solution than operating the AC.

More Approaches to Conserve Energy During Warm Weather

There are extra approaches you can save money on utility bills throughout the summer.

  1. Get an energy-efficient AC system. Central air conditioners only last about 12–15 years and lose efficiency as they get older. An updated air conditioner can keep your home comfier while keeping cooling expenses down.
  2. Set yearly air conditioner maintenance. Routine air conditioner maintenance keeps your equipment working properly and could help it run at better efficiency. It can also help prolong its life cycle, since it allows technicians to pinpoint small problems before they create a major meltdown.
  3. Switch air filters often. Use manufacturer instructions for switching your air filter. A dusty filter can result in your system short cycling, or turn on and off too often, and increase your electricity.
  4. Measure attic insulation levels. Almost 90% of homes in the USA don’t have enough insulation, according to the Insulation Institute. Many southern climates need 13–14” of attic insulation, while northern climates need 16–18”.
  5. Have your ductwork checked. Ductwork that has separated over time can seep cool air into your attic, walls or crawl space. This can lead to big comfort troubles in your residence, like hot and cold spots.
  6. Seal holes, doors and windows. Keep hot air where it should be by sealing openings. You can also caulk or weather strip doors to trap more conditioned air inside.

Save More Energy During Hot Weather with Farris Heating & Air

If you need to conserve more energy during warm weather, our Farris Heating & Air specialists can help. Reach us at 918-333-0376 or contact us online for extra details about our energy-saving cooling products.