As a homeowner, it can be a struggle to stay cool in the summer. For the most part, you’ll be turning to your heating and air conditioning system for relief from the heat, but it’s not ideal to keep your thermostat setting the same at all times. If you want to optimize both your home’s cooling and your system’s energy efficiency, it’s best to adjust the temperature as needed. Here are the ideal settings you can set your thermostat to this summer.
When You’re at Home
To stay comfortable this summer while optimizing energy efficiency, the Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78° F when you’re at home. Putting it at this level allows you to stay cool without racking up a huge energy bill. You can also invest in a dehumidifier to help further cool the air in your home.
When You’re Away
Did you know that allowing your home to warm up while you’re away can actually help you save even more this summer? M & M Heating & Air Conditioning Service Co. recommends turning the thermostat on your air conditioner up seven to 10° F higher than the recommended setting. Doing this for more than two hours can save you as much as 10 percent on cooling costs. The higher interior temperature will actually slow the flow of heat into your home, which means your unit won’t require as much energy to cool the interior when you return home.
Other Tips on Achieving the Ideal Temperature
If you have a baby in your home, we recommend setting your thermostat somewhere between 65 and 74° F and adjusting as needed. To determine if the temperature needs adjusted, check your baby’s ears and chest so you’ll know whether they feel too hot or cold. If you have pets, the ideal temperature is between 65 and 78° F. While most animals do have natural coping mechanisms for temperature changes, tropical amphibians and other pets like fish don’t, so adjust accordingly.
If you’re looking for excellent heating and air cooling services, M & M Heating & Air Conditioning Service Co. is the company to count on. Call us today at (209) 952-6580, or you can reach us online to schedule your maintenance service.