California summers are notoriously hot. That is why having a good home cooling system is essential. The problem is that the lower the temperature you maintain in your home during the summer, the harder your AC system has to work to keep it there. You want to feel natural comfort indoors, but you don’t want to pay a high energy bill—knowing what temperature to set is critical if you want to save the most money and put the least strain on your AC unit.
What is the Summer AC Temperature Magic Number?
It is recommended that you have your thermostat at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s thought to be the “magic number” for saving money. The closer the thermostat is to the outside temperature, the less money you will spend in the long run. And, because 78 degrees is still considered comfortable for some people, it’s worthwhile to sacrifice a little extra heat to save money.
If it’s too warm for you, adjust your thermostat by a few degrees every few hours. Stop when you reach a temperature that you believe will be comfortable for you. The higher the temperature, the better, but you don’t want to be in a sweat lodge! Turn up the AC to around 85 degrees while you’re gone. This can result in a 10% reduction in your annual payment. Set your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit while sleeping, and use a light sheet instead of a blanket.
The Position of the Thermostat Is Critical
The thermostat, which regulates the temperature and helps to keep your energy costs low, is one of the most critical pieces of equipment in your home. Many people, however, are unaware that the thermostat’s location significantly impacts its performance. If possible, position your thermostat to match the natural airflow in the space.
You don’t want it to be in the sun all day because it will artificially raise the temperature around the thermostat. It will have the same effect if it is near a drafty window, artificially raising or lowering the temperature based on the draft. Place the thermostat against an interior wall away from windows, skylights, entrances, and furniture in a convenient location. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your thermostat is working correctly and maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home.
Try a Smart or Programmable Thermostat
With a programmed or smart thermostat, your HVAC system will learn the necessary temperatures to set itself at the appropriate times. The thermostat will remember when you wake up, go to work, return home, and go to bed and adjust based on your temperature preferences. That means you don’t have to worry about remembering to set it yourself—or about forgetting and wasting the energy savings that would come from having the right temperature at the right time. If you fail, or if your settings become jumbled, a smart thermostat usually works with an app, allowing you to adjust the temperature in your home whether you’re home or not.
Check to See If Your AC Is Running Efficiently
When the summer heat arrives, many people use air conditioning to stay cool and comfortable. On the other hand, running air conditioning can significantly drain your energy costs and the environment. You can do a few simple things to make your air conditioner as efficient as possible. First, make sure your air conditioner is appropriate for your home. A large or small air conditioner will not perform as well as one that is just right. Second, make sure your air conditioner is in working order. This entails changing the filters regularly and having them serviced by a professional. Finally, if you’re considering getting an AC installation in Seaside, CA, make sure it’s energy-efficient. Taking these precautions allows you to stay cool this summer and be kind to your wallet and the environment.
