The Best Thermostat Setting During the Summer for Comfort and Cost

Summer is here, bringing backyard barbecues, vacations, pool days - and some serious heat. In many areas, triple-digit temperatures can stick around for months, making it essential to manage indoor comfort without running up your energy bill. So, what's the ideal indoor thermostat setting when the temperature climbs?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 78 degress fahrenheit (25 degrees celcius) is the recommended indoor temperature during the summer. While this might feel a bit warm for some, there are easy ways to stay cool and keep costs down. In fact, for every degree you set your thermostat above 72 degrees fahrenheit (22 degrees celcius), you can save up to 3% on cooling expenses.

Adjust the Thermostat When You're Away
Your HVAC system works hardest when it's trying to keep your home cool during the hottest hours of the day. But if no one's home, there's no need to maintain your usual comfort level.

Raise the thermostat setting by 7-10 degrees F while you're away at work or running errands. A smart thermostat makes this process effortless - allowing you to program a schedule or adjust temperatures remotely from your phone. Doing this regularly can reduce your energy bill by up to 10%.

Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
While ceiling fans won't replace your air conditioner, they're a great way to enhance comfort. Most ceiling fans have a small switch that lets you change blade direction. In summer, set the blades to spin counterclockwise, which pushes air downward and creates a cooling effect.

With this breeze, the room can feel up to 4 degrees F cooler - meaning you can raise your AC setting by 2-3 degrees F and still feel comfortable.

Schedule Seasonal AC Maintenance
Just like you'd prepare your car for a road trip, your air conditioning system needs seasonal attention. Schedule a professional HVAC check-up in the spring to ensure everything's running smoothly before peak summer heat.

Things like clogged filters, leaky ducts, or overgrown landscaping around your unit can decrease efficiency. A certified technician can identify and fix these issues - or help you consider upgrading if your system is outdated.

Consider a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats not only help you manage energy usage, they also adapt to your schedule. Some models learn your habits and automatically adjust temperatures for maximum comfort and savings. They're a small investment that can lead to long-term energy efficiency.

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC System
Even if you're setting your thermostat higher, you won't see significant savings if your air conditioner isn't working efficiently. Replacing an older unit with a high-efficiency, Energy Star-rated system can reduce energy use by up to 15%.

Modern systems often feature two-stage cooling and variable-speed fans. These technologies provide more consistent comfort and remove more humidity from the air - keeping you cooler even when your thermostat is set a little higher.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Cooler Naturally
In addition to smart thermostat use, AC maintenance, and ceiling fans, there are easy habits that can help keep your home cool:

- Close curtains and blinds during the day to block out sunlight. Blackout curtains are especially effective. Open windows at night when it's cooler, then close them in the morning to trap the cool air.

- Seal doors and windows with weatherstripping to prevent warm air from sneaking in.

- Limit the use of heat-producing appliances like ovens, dryers, and hair dryers until after 8 p.m., when outside temperatures drop. These devices can raise indoor temps by up to 10 degrees F.

Finding Your Comfort Zone
Saving on energy doesn't mean sacrificing comfort. If 78 degrees F feels too warm, start by increasing your usual setting by 1-2 degrees F and adjust gradually to find the highest temperature you can comfortably tolerate.

Also, don't forget about humidity - it can make your home feel much hotter. If humidity is an issue where you live, consider using a dehumidifier. Reducing moisture in the air can significantly improve comfort, even without lowering the thermostat.

At 4 Seasons Heating, Cooling & Electical we are cooling experts. Contact us at (204) 953-5700 around the clock for all your HVAC needs.

We're here when you need us!