What Is the Best Thermostat Setting for Summer?
As the summer heat rolls into New Jersey, homeowners are faced with the challenge of keeping their homes cool without breaking the bank on energy bills. One of the most effective ways to achieve this balance is by optimizing your thermostat settings. To help you stay comfortable at an affordable cost, our HVAC experts at Arctic Air Conditioning have put together this guide to help you find the best thermostat settings for the summer months in the Garden State.
Why Thermostat Settings Matter
Setting your thermostat correctly can significantly impact your comfort, energy usage, and utility costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% a year on air conditioning by simply adjusting your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees F for eight hours a day from its normal setting. But you also need to ensure you and your family are comfortable, so you need to balance energy savings with sufficient cooling.
Recommended Summer Temperature Settings
When it comes to setting your thermostat, there’s no one right answer that will fit everyone’s needs and situations. That’s why we have covered recommended thermostat settings for the following scenarios:
When You’re Home
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you are at home and need cooling. This temperature is comfortable for most people and helps to keep energy usage in check.
When You’re Away
Set your thermostat to 85 degrees when you’re away from home for extended periods. This higher setting ensures that your home doesn’t get excessively hot but also doesn’t waste energy cooling an empty house.
While Sleeping
Many people prefer a cooler environment for sleeping. Setting your thermostat to around 74 degrees can provide a more comfortable sleep while still being energy-efficient.
Additional Tips for Efficient Cooling
Your comfort doesn’t end at your thermostat setting. There are additional things you can do to help keep cool without having to set your thermostat too low. Consider these tips for keeping your home cool:
- Install a programmable or smart thermostat: Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat can make managing these temperature settings much easier. These devices allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day and days of the week.
- Use ceiling fans: Ceiling fans help circulate cool air and can make a room feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
- Close blinds and curtains: Blocking out the sun during the hottest parts of the day can limit the heat entering your home and reduce the load on your cooling system.
- Seal leaks: Ensure that your home is well-insulated and that windows and doors are sealed properly to keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
- Maintain your HVAC system: Regular maintenance, such as changing air filters and having your system inspected by a professional, ensures that your air conditioner is running efficiently.
Contact Arctic Air for Cooling Services
Finding the right thermostat settings for summer in New Jersey can help you stay cool and comfortable while also saving money and energy. By following the recommended settings and using programmable or smart thermostats, you can optimize your home’s cooling system to work efficiently and effectively.
If you are interested in having a new thermostat installed, scheduling AC maintenance, or need any other cooling services, reach out to Arctic Air Conditioning! Our team has served Central New Jersey since 1977! Our NATE-certified technicians have the experience, tools, and training to ensure a job well done.
Call Arctic Air today to schedule air conditioning or thermostat services in Old Bridge or the surrounding areas.
