Summer is in full effect, and so is the heat! It’s true that the summer sun can be a little…ehhh… might we say relentless. But that’s all a part of what makes the summertime so great! Swimming, waterparks, vacation, cookouts, and family gatherings – when we think of summer, we think of the whole shebang. You can’t really enjoy all summer has to offer without the summer heat that comes along with it. However, you can beat the heat in the refuge of your home with your functioning AC this season. The only thing is that beating the heat doesn’t come without a price tag, and your monthly energy bills still need to be paid. We know that prices are continuing to rise everywhere. Because of this, we understand that it’s beneficial for homeowners everywhere to pinch some pennies and save where they can.
This means getting your energy bill under control can be a great benefit to you! But how exactly can this be achieved, and where exactly do you start? The good news is your favorite local experts at Xenia Heating & Air are here to steer you in the right direction to better maintain your AC’s energy consumption at a more efficient rate while staying comfortable throughout this summer season.
WHAT IS THE ENERGY-EFFICIENT RECOMMENDATION EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW?
Let’s first understand what energy efficiency means before discussing the ideal AC temperatures. Being energy efficient means achieving the desired level of comfort while using the least amount of energy. Which is beneficial all around.
It’s recommended by The U.S. Department of Energy to set your thermostat to 78°F (25.5°C) during summer because it balances comfort and energy efficiency. Though it may seem uncomfortably high. Keep in mind that this is a reference, and there is no one universal temperature that works for everyone. It can be used as a starting point to determine your own optimal energy-efficient temperature. You can adjust the temperature higher or lower to suit your household’s personal comfort and needs. However, setting your thermostat to a lower temperature will result in higher energy bills.
HOW CAN A HOMEOWNER DETERMINE THEIR OWN ENERGY-EFFICIENT AC TEMPERATURE?
To find your most comfortable energy-efficient temperature, start with the recommended 78°F and leave your thermostat at this temp for a few hours. Then, see how everyone in your household responds and adjust the temperature by one or two degrees after several hours have passed. Over the next few days, you should continue this process slowly. Gradual experimentation by way of trial and error is necessary to give your household ample time to reacclimate and adjust to each set temperature. You never know what works best until you try it, and you may just be pleasantly surprised to discover that one temperature is not all bad as you imagined it to be once given the appropriate time to acclimate yourselves.
ARE THERE ANY ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS & TRICKS FOR HOMEOWNERS?
- To prevent the temperature from rising due to sunlight, it’s a good idea to keep the blinds or curtains closed during the hottest hours of the day.
- To decrease heat transfer through windows, consider using energy-efficient window coverings or reflective films. Although small, these measures can have a significant impact on energy savings.
- To keep your home cool and prevent hot air from entering and cool air from escaping, make sure to seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork.
- To ease the pressure on your cooling system, it is advisable to refrain from using appliances that generate heat during peak hours.
- To maximize energy saving, consider using a smart thermostat if you haven’t already. It can learn your habits and adjust the temperature automatically.
As you continue your energy-efficiency-seeking endeavors, remember, it’s important to find the right balance between personal comfort and sustainability, so don’t give up! Furthermore, you can rely on Xenia Heating & Air for all your cooling and AC needs! We are only a phone call away, so if you have any today at (937) 708-8451, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!