There are a few things that are stereotypically summer, the 4th of July, backyard cookouts, and unusually high utility bills. One of the questions we get the most is how can I lower my utility bills? Fortunately, there’s more than a few things you can do. One of the easiest and most effective ones is using the perfect AC thermostat setting for summer. Yes, it’s real and yes, we can tell you what it is.
What is the Perfect AC Thermostat Setting for Summer?
Many homeowners are surprised when they learn what the perfect AC thermostat setting for summer is. We can understand how it could catch people off guard. The idea temperature to set your thermostat to is 78°.
No, we have not lost our minds. And before you come for us, know there is actually science to back this up.
The best way to efficiently run your air conditioner is by finding a nice balance between the ambient outdoor air, and the treated air inside.
While it may be someone’s first instinct to crank up the AC as high as possible to get a wonderful gust of ice cold air. That’s actually incredibly inefficient.
By doing this, you’re forcing your HVAC system to work way harder than it needs to. Which adds tons of extra wear and tear on the machine and adds extra dollar signs to your utility bill.
As long as your thermostat is set to a lower temperature than it is outside, your home will stay cool. Finding that nice medium allows your home to be cool while maintaining an efficient baseline.
Set the Thermostat Higher when You’re Gone.
Perhaps the biggest thing you can do to make a dent in your utility bills is to set the thermostat to a higher temperature while you’re gone.
All you need to do is program the thermostat to go 8 to 10 degrees higher when you’re out of the house. While it may seem a little drastic, this tip comes directly from HVAC manufacturers and engineers.
Constantly turning your system on and off puts a huge amount of strain on your HVAC appliances. This strain also adds to your utility bill. Instead, leave your unit as a resting temperature closer to the outdoor air.
By doing this, you keep your system in almost a “sleep” mode. It doesn’t need to power on and off, it’s just efficiently running the whole time you’re gone. Also, it makes sure your home won’t be way too hot or way too cold when you finally get home.
At ASI, we like to say there’s no point in keeping a home cool if there’s no one inside to enjoy it. We also highly recommend investing in a programmable, smart thermostat.
Smart thermostats can sync with your phone so you can turn down the head on your commute home. Having the ability to keep your bill low and come home to a cool home sounds like a win win situation to us.
What About Setting the AC for Sleep?
The only time we think it’s ok to break the 78° rule is when it’s time for bed. The optimal sleep temperature is lower than the most efficient home temperature.
We understand that sleep is very personal. What works for one person will most likely not work for another. To have the best night of sleep, The Sleep Foundation recommends your bedroom temperature to be between 60° and 67°.
We like lowing the temperature of our home as we’re getting ready for bed. This ensures that the home will gradually cool and not put any strain on the HVAC system. And it gives time for your home to reach that perfect sleep temperature.
A natural way to lower the temperature in your home is to open the windows. We recommend opening your windows for a little bit every day. Fresh air has great benefits for your health and keeps any air in your home from being stale.
White the best temperature range for adults is 60° to 67°, it’s a different number for children and babies. They may need a warmer room.
Keep the Humidity in Check
Humidity is no joke. It can make even the mildest of heat feel so much worse. The reason why is because of how it interacts with your sweat.
When you’re in a dry climate, sweat can evaporate quickly, leaving you feeling cooler sooner. In a humid climate, it’s too wet for your sweat to properly evaporate. This leaves you a hot, sticky mess.
Your air conditioner does more than keep you cool; it also regulates the humidity in your home. One of its functions is to make sure the humidity is at a good level and doesn’t get out of hand.
When your home feels more humid than usual, it’s time for an AC tune-up. Excess humidity can be related to a refrigerant leak, frozen evaporator coils, or something else.
Natural Solutions to Keep Cool
Changing your thermostat to the perfect summer setting isn’t the only thing you can do keep your utility bills down. There are a few tried and true things you can do to keep your bills down and lower your carbon footprint.
- Dress for the Weather – It’s strange to say, but dress for the summer. Wear shorts and tank tops around the house. Joggers are comfy, but they don’t help at all when it’s warm out.
- Hang Some Blackout Curtains – Blackout curtains are great. They help retain any cool air from the evening and block out hot air from the daytime. This helps keep your home naturally cool and prevents UV damage to your home and furniture.
- Strategically Open Windows – We know, we talked about opening windows earlier, but we’re telling you about it again because it’s so important. All the air that goes through your HVAC system is recycled. Bring in some fresh air and keep your home’s temperature down by opening the windows during the night and early in the morning.
- Run the Fan – No one should take their ceiling fan for granted. They help all year long. During the summer, set the fan to spin counterclockwise. This will push cool air down to the floors and into the living areas of your home.
- Make sure to Weather Seal Your Home – Little cracks can make a big difference. We’re talking about the ones around your windows and doors. When it gets warm, do a quick visual inspection of the inside and outside of your windows. Seal any noticeable gaps with caulk and replace any weatherstripping that needs to be updated.
- Schedule Regular Tune-Ups – The best thing you can do for your HVAC system is to have it regularly tuned-up. At ASI, we think all homeowners should have two tune-ups per year. Once in the spring before it gets hot and once in the fall before it gets cold.
Call The White Glove Guys for the Best AC Maintenance
Want to keep your home nice and cool all summer long? Book an appointment with the HVAC experts at ASI, The White Glove Guys. Our team is trained to find and handle every issue that may come their way. They’re also well versed in customer service, ensuring a great interaction every time.
Dial the number at the top of the screen to speak with someone in our office or click here to book an appointment online.
