With summer here, it’s no doubt your AC has been working hard and will continue to do so over the next few months. Consequently, you may notice an increase in your energy bills. Unfortunately, there is no way to get out of paying those bills. However, the good news is that you can find an energy-efficient AC setting that will still keep your home comfortable while controlling your energy consumption. So, without further ado… feel free to join your Mason Heating & Air experts as we guide you through learning how to discover the best energy-efficient AC setting for this summer.
IS THERE AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT AC SETTING THAT IS MOST RECOMMENDED?
First of all, we want to stress that there is no magic number that works for everyone universally. What works for one family may not work for another. Although there isn’t a perfect AC temperature that works for everyone, the U.S. Department of Energy suggests that 78°F (26°C) is the most efficient setting for air conditioning. While this may be true in terms of energy efficiency, we also understand that this may sound alarmingly high and uncomfortable. However, just as we mentioned, this temperature may not feel ideal for every family. But it is a great starting point to help you find what’s comfortable for you! All it may take is a little experimentation on your part before you land on your own energy-efficient AC temperature!
IS THERE A RECOMMENDED STRATEGY TO PINPOINT YOUR OWN ENERGY-EFFICIENT TEMPERATURE?
Good question! As always, having a plan in place is the best way to go. So, to start off on your journey to saving energy, try setting your thermostat to the suggested temperature of 78°F. Don’t worry; you don’t have to keep it there too long. But this is a great reference point to help you find what works well for your household. After you have set the temperature to the recommended setting, wait a few hours for the AC to adjust and observe your family’s reactions. You can then adjust the thermostat accordingly, keeping in mind it should be gradually adjusted 1 or 2 degrees at a time. Continue this process over the next few days until you find the ideal temperature that keeps everyone comfortable while consuming less energy.
IS THERE A RECOMMENDED AC TEMPERATURE TO USE WHEN YOU’RE ON A TRIP?
During summer vacations or weekend getaways, leaving your home air conditioner running may be a concern. However, turning off the AC completely is not advisable as it can cause heat and humidity damage to your home, houseplants, art, collectibles, or even small pets like fish. To avoid this, simply increase your thermostat setting by 10 degrees from your regular AC temperature before leaving. Doing so may assist in reducing your energy consumption by 5-15%! Sounds like a win to us!
IS THERE A CERTAIN THERMOSTAT THAT IS MORE ENERGY-EFFICIENT?
While a standard thermostat is an efficient tool, and there’s nothing wrong with using one, smart thermostats can greatly benefit energy efficiency and convenience. Simply speaking, they are a fantastic tool you can utilize to reach your energy-saving goals. By using a smart thermostat, you can set temperature schedules that adjust based on your work and daily routine, which can definitely lead to energy savings.
If you’re not convinced yet, consider this scenario: You’ve planned a fun, elaborate family vacation, but in the midst of all the chaos, you forget to adjust your thermostat right before leaving the house. It’s not until you’ve already left and are well on your way to your destinations that you realize that your air conditioner was left running at full blast with nobody home. The good news is that remember, you can use your phone to adjust the AC settings from the ease of your fingertips! This means you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about it anymore! On top of that, you can lower the temperature setting before you return home so that your house will be cool and comfortable when you arrive, allowing you to relax right away.
For those who are apt to travel or have a rather busy summer schedule, this can prove insanely convenient! So, if you have a packed summer ahead and you don’t already have a smart thermostat, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. We’re always happy to help!
It might be challenging to balance staying cool and comfortable while keeping your monthly energy consumption in check, but it can be done! Call Mason Heating & Air for all your energy-saving and cooling needs today at (513) 496-2477, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
