With summer just a month or two away, many homeowners will start switching to their air conditioners to stay comfortable. But during hot summer days, it can be tough to balance your preferred indoor temperature with energy efficiency. Learning how to best use your thermostat can help you find the right compromise.
Most thermostats come with useful settings that can help increase your savings during the summer. And if you’re really looking to maximize energy efficiency, smart thermostat installation is a great investment. The local HVAC pros at Home Heating & Cooling want you to be as comfortable as possible this summer. Check out the best thermostat settings for summer in and around O’Fallon.
The Ideal Thermostat Settings for Summer
According to the US Department of Energy, the ideal temperature setting for your thermostat is 78 degrees. This may be a bit higher than many homeowners prefer, which often ranges between 75 and 70 degrees or lower. Unfortunately, this can have a big impact on your monthly cooling costs. 78 degrees is a good compromise between being comfortable indoors and sparing your wallet a pricey energy bill.
They also suggest raising the temperature at night when you and your family are asleep. Your body temperature is already lower at night, and the later hours are when outdoor air is coolest. But on the other hand, many sleep scientists suggest that temperatures between 60 and 67 degrees are ideal. You can strike the right balance by gradually increasing the temperature by 1 degree each night. Additionally, other tools like fans and even temperature-regulating pillows can help.
Many digital thermostats have eco-friendly settings that can gradually adjust the temperature throughout the day. This is ideal for when you’re at work and don’t want to waste energy cooling an empty home. But to really get the most out of your thermostat, consider smart thermostat installation.
Invest in Smart Thermostat Installation for Max Savings
A smart thermostat is a special kind of programmable thermostat. Unlike other types of thermostats, it can monitor your daily usage habits and balance your preferences with an energy-efficient schedule. Many models offer suggestions that improve energy efficiency, such as taking advantage of lower fuel or electricity prices!
One of the best advantages to smart thermostat installation is the ability to control it from anywhere. With your phone, tablet or other smart device, you can adjust your smart thermostat via its Wi-Fi connection. The smart thermostat can even alert you when it’s time to change the air filter or if it detects a problem.
Other HVAC Tips for Summer
If you’re still not sold on keeping your thermostat settings for summer at 78 degrees, there are other ways to avoid the heat. Here are a few other HVAC tips for summer.
- Schedule a tune-up for your air conditioner: It’s a good idea to prepare your HVAC system with routine air conditioning maintenance. Not only can it improve efficiency, but it can also reduce the risk of a problem, shutting your AC off entirely.
- Make sure your fans are blowing in the right direction: Many homeowners reverse their fans during the winter to help circulate warm air. But don’t forget to switch them back so that you can feel their cool breeze during the summer.
- Keep blinds and shades closed during the hottest parts of the day: During the summer, temperatures are usually highest in the afternoon to early evening. Keeping strong sunlight out of your home will significantly lower the indoor temperature.