Keep Your Cool: How to Optimize Your AC Temperature

When the heat rises outside, the battle heats up indoors when setting your home’s thermostat. But when it comes to balancing comfort and cost, what’s the optimal temperature setting for your home’s air conditioner? That can depend on who you ask!

According to the Department of Energy and ENERGY STAR®, the optimal temperature for your home might be different than your neighbors. They suggest finding a comfortable temperature when you’re home and increasing it by 7 degrees when no one is home and by 4 degrees when everyone is asleep.

Choose the Ideal Thermostat Location

The location of your thermostat plays a part in the accuracy of the thermostat reading. Avoid placing your thermostat in direct sunlight or near drafts, doorways, or windows.

To get the most accurate reading, install your thermostat where natural air currents occur, and don’t put furniture where it will block that natural air movement.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat lets you easily set temperature schedules that optimize energy efficiency. A programmable thermostat can help reduce energy costs by $100 a year, according to ENERGY STAR®.

Lower Your Thermostat Gradually for Maximum Efficiency

The smaller the difference between your indoor and outdoor temperature the less strain there is on your cooling system. Lower your thermostat a few degrees at a time instead of drastically reducing the temperature setting.

Balance Humidity to Ensure Your Home Feels Cool

Controlling your home’s humidity also helps the “feels-like” temperature indoors. While it’s tempting to dial up the air conditioning, here are a few ways to control your home’s humidity:

1. Use a ventilation fan: When you are showering, cooking, or doing any other activity that can add humidity to your home, use an exhaust or ventilation fan to increase airflow.
2. Use a dehumidifier: If your home struggles with high humidity, you may need a humidification system. Whole-home humidifiers maintain consistent and balanced humidity throughout your home, which can help you resist the temptation to use cold air to battle humidity.
3. Fix plumbing leaks: Humidity is a measure of moisture in the air. Leaky faucets and pipes can contribute to that moisture.
4. Weatherstrip your door and window drafts: Preventing outside humid air from entering your home helps maintain good indoor air quality.

Request Same Day AC Service From Len The Plumber Heating & Air

You need a cool and comfortable home to handle the summer heat. Following these guidelines can help you balance cost and comfort.

If your cooling system is letting you down, call the experts at Len The Plumber Heating & Air. Our technicians can perform air conditioning maintenance to get your system ready for the heat. If your AC malfunctions, we offer same day service seven days a week.

Call now to request air conditioning services in the Washington, D.C., area.