The Best AC Temperature to Save Money This Summer
As a dangerous heat wave sweeps across parts of the U.S. this week, millions of Americans are relying on their air conditioners to stay cool. However, with AC units working overtime, many households are likely to see a spike in their electricity bills. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association predicts that the average U.S. household will spend around $792 on electricity during this year’s June-to-September cooling season, a 10% increase from last summer.
To help strike a balance between staying comfortable and saving energy, energy experts recommend setting your thermostat in the mid-to-upper 70s while you’re at home and using air conditioning, then raising it as high as you can tolerate. Energy Star suggests 78 degrees as the ideal temperature for balancing comfort and savings, while others say 76 degrees is the sweet spot. The Department of Energy recommends starting between 75 and 78 degrees and using a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re away from home.
Small adjustments like raising your thermostat by just 1 degree can lead to a 3% to 5% reduction in cooling costs over time. Factors like your home’s insulation, window quality, and local climate play a role in determining the right thermostat setting for your household.
In addition to adjusting your thermostat, there are other ways to reduce cooling costs during the summer. Using ceiling fans to circulate cool air, closing blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day, regularly replacing HVAC filters, avoiding heat-generating appliances in the afternoon, and sealing gaps around windows and doors can all help lower your energy usage and save money.
By implementing these simple strategies, you can stay comfortable while reducing your energy costs this summer. Remember that small changes can add up over time and make a significant impact on your electricity bill. Stay cool and save money by following these energy-saving tips.
