Summer is here. Along with grilling, vacations, and afternoons by the pool, you’re sure to experience major heat waves. Depending on your location, triple-digit temperatures may be the norm for three or more months out of the year. A rising heat index, partnered with your goal to limit your monthly energy cost, leaves you questioning what temperature to set the thermostat in the summer.
It turns out that the best indoor temperature for your home during the summer months is 78 degrees, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If that temperature falls outside your comfort level, there are several ways to modify how your home feels without causing your energy bill to spike. Keep in mind, each degree set above 72 can save you up to 3% on your cooling costs.
Increase temperature when away
Naturally, when the heat increases outdoors, your HVAC system works harder to maintain your ideal indoor temperature. While you’re away, however, your set temperature doesn’t need to be quite so low.
Adjust the thermostat while you’re away to a higher setting. Installing a smart thermostat will make adjusting the indoor temperature even easier. Schedule the setting to increase by seven to 10 degrees while you’re at work or away for the day.
With the ability to control the thermostat from your smartphone, you can easily adjust the temperature to a cooler setting before arriving home. Increasing the temperature when you’re away can help save up to 10% on your energy bill.
Ceiling fan direction in summer
A ceiling fan won’t replace your air conditioner during the summer months, but it can certainly complement it. On most models, there’s a small switch near the bottom or side of the mounting base of the fan. This switch allows you to change the direction of the fan to match the season.
During the summer months, your ceiling fan blades should spin counterclockwise. By spinning in this direction, your fan creates a cool breeze by pushing air down. You’ll find that the room feels up to four degrees cooler and stays consistent throughout the day. Plus, you can increase your air conditioner temperature by two to three degrees thanks to the fan’s cool down.
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