The Key to Energy Efficiency This Summer: Proper Temperature Setting

We’ve all seen in literature and even on television that setting your thermostat properly is important for energy conservation. Unfortunately, there isn’t as much specific information about the actual temperatures you should be setting your thermostat at. On top of this, there’s a lot of misinformation that gets passed around. So what should you do? The experts at Certified Air Systems, Inc., have some suggestions.

Temps for Very Hot Weather

We are in August, and this is one of the hottest months of the year nationwide. On top of our heat we get tremendous humidity, which forces your system to work even harder than it already does. This is why it’s important not to push your AC to the brink, and a good way to avoid this is by following the 20 degree rule. For example, if it’s 97 degrees outside, you don’t want to set your thermostat any lower than 77 degrees. This is because pushing your AC past the 20 degree spread is asking a little too much of the system. By keeping within the 20 degree spread, you should have the comfort you need without overworking your system.

Temps for Average Days

We don’t have a lot of relatively low heat days in August, but when we do, you’ll want to go by the EPA suggested standards. For a daytime setting in an occupied home, the EPA recommends a temperature setting of 78 degrees; for unoccupied homes, and for sleeping, the EPA recommends settings at 85 degrees.

How Much Can This Save Me?

The EPA estimates that for every degree you can turn up your AC, you can save up to 3% on your annual cooling costs. This can be a significant amount if you can reduce your overall cooling by 3-4 degrees.

For more information on how you can save energy this summer in Longwood, FL, give our experts a call!

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