As the temperatures rise in Cleveland, finding the optimal thermostat setting is a balancing act between comfort and cost. The goal is to keep everyone cool without skyrocketing energy bills. Here are some tips on how to strike the right balance during the sweltering summer months.
Why Stick to Set Temperatures?
It’s tempting to constantly fiddle with your thermostat, especially when certain family members keep changing it without permission, but this increases operating costs. Each time you adjust the temperature, your air conditioner works harder to reach the new setting, consuming more energy in the process.
The Two Ideal Temperature Ranges
Instead of constantly changing the temperature, establish two consistent settings: one for when you’re at home and another for when you’re away.
At-Home Temperature
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat between 75 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Of course, personal preferences vary, so find a temperature within this range that suits your family’s comfort level. Just remember, cooling your home to 78 degrees instead of 72 degrees can cut your summertime electricity bills by more than 25%.
Away Settings
When the house is empty, setting the temperature back reduces the strain on your AC. The DOE recommends pushing the temperature up 7 to 10 degrees from the regular setting — ideally between 82 and 85 degrees. Following this advice for eight hours a day can save up to 10% on your cooling costs.
If raising the temperature results in savings, why not just shut off the AC entirely? While it sounds logical, this can lead to excessive heat and humidity buildup, potentially damaging your home and belongings. Instead, opt for a 7- to 10-degree setback to safeguard your home and provide a quicker cooldown when you return.
The Benefits of Programmable Thermostats
Upgrading to a programmable thermostat takes the guesswork out of temperature management. These devices allow you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, automatically adjusting your home’s climate to match your schedule.
Smart Thermostats
For even greater control and efficiency, consider a smart thermostat. Some models have learning capabilities, adjusting the settings automatically based on your habits to optimize comfort and savings. Many smart thermostats can also detect when you’re away and raise the temperature to prevent cooling an empty house. Then, before you return, they bring the temperature back to your preferred setting so you walk into a cool interior.
5 Other Ways to Stay Cool
While your thermostat setting is a big part of summertime comfort, there are plenty of other ways to beat the heat and cut your cooling costs:
- Use fans: Ceiling and portable fans circulate air, creating a wind-chill effect that makes you feel about four degrees cooler. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave to conserve energy.
- Keep windows shut: Close the windows during the hottest parts of the day to prevent hot air from entering. Open them again in the evening when the temperature drops to invite cooler air inside.
- Close blinds on sunny windows: Sunlight streaming through your windows significantly raises the indoor temperature. Close the blinds or curtains on south- and west-facing windows to minimize this heat gain.
- Run a dehumidifier: High humidity makes your home feel cool but muggy. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, allowing you to set the thermostat a degree or two higher without causing discomfort.
- Limit heat-producing appliances: Ovens, stoves, and clothes dryers add unwanted heat to your home. Opt for microwave cooking, grilling outside, or air-drying clothes during the midday heat.
Schedule HVAC or Thermostat Services in Cleveland Heights
W.F. Hann & Sons LLC can help you get the most from your cooling system. Whether you’re looking to install a smart thermostat, need help programming your current one, or want to make sure your AC is running at peak efficiency, our licensed, background-checked professionals are here for you.
Contact us today to take control of your comfort in Cleveland Heights this summer.
