Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but when the heat waves hit, it's hard to stay cool indoors without racking up high energy bills. Thermostats are a crucial component of your air conditioning system, and setting them correctly can significantly affect your home's comfort and energy efficiency.
The Ideal Thermostat Setting for Summer
The recommended thermostat setting for summer is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Whoa, I know that sounds hot, and for some people, this may not be cool enough. Gradually lower the thermostat by one degree until you find the optimal temperature for your comfort level. Lower thermostat settings strain your AC system, making it harder to maintain a cooler temperature. Adjusting the thermostat while you work or away from home by increasing the temperature by 7 degrees or more for eight hours daily could save on your annual power bill.
Thermostat Location for Accurate Temperature
The location of your thermostat plays a significant role in the efficiency and accuracy of your air conditioning system. Suppose your thermostat is located in an area that is affected by temperature extremes, such as near a window or a heat source. In that case, it may lead to inaccurate readings, which can affect the performance of your AC unit.
Your ideal thermostat location should be in an area with consistent airflow and temperature. Placed away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat or cold sources will ensure that your thermostat can effectively measure your home's temperature. Ideally, it needs to be in a central location where it can monitor the temperature of the entire house.
The size of your home plays a critical role in determining the location of your thermostat. Installing multiple thermostats can help you avoid overheating or overcooling certain areas of your home, wasting energy, and contributing to higher utility bills.
Maximizing Your Home Comfort and Energy Efficiency with Thermostat Upgrades
Are you trying to decide between a programmable or smart thermostat? Upgrading your thermostat is an excellent way to increase your home's energy efficiency.
Programmable thermostats allow you to automatically control the temperature in your home throughout the day and can be controlled from your phone. Smart thermostats take it a step further by learning your schedule and adjusting the temperature for maximum efficiency.
Keep Your Cool All Summer Long: On a Budget
There are plenty of budget-friendly ways to stay cool and save on energy bills this summer. Here are some tips on how to help your AC system work more efficiently:
Use ceiling fans - Combined with your AC, you can circulate the cool air throughout your home more effectively. This can help you feel cooler and allow you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
Close your blinds and curtains - Sunlight heats up your home quickly, so keeping them closed during the day can help block the sun's rays and keep your home cooler.
Use a programmable thermostat - This smart feature allows you to set your AC to automatically adjust the temperature when you're not home, so you don't have to waste energy cooling an empty house.
Use energy-efficient light bulbs - Traditional incandescent light bulbs generate a lot of heat. Switching to energy-efficient bulbs such as CFLs or LEDs can help reduce the heat in your home.
Clean or replace your AC filters regularly - Dirty or clogged filters can restrict airflow and make your system work harder than necessary.
Regularly maintaining your HVAC system can extend its lifespan and save you money on expensive repairs. Scheduling an inspection or check-up annually can ensure that your air conditioning system runs efficiently and effectively. Service technicians will look for any issues that could affect performance, and various system components, inspect the air filter and test refrigerant levels.
Keeping your home cool and comfortable during the summer months doesn't have to break the bank. Enjoy summer without any worries.
Beat the heat and stay air-conditioned this summer with Wurke Bettler Home Services.
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