Heating and cooling your home can be quite costly, but did you know that setting your thermostat to the right temperature can help you save up to 10% a year on energy costs? With electricity prices having surged by 24% from April 2021 to April 2024, it’s crucial to find ways to manage these rising expenses. Unfortunately, energy costs are expected to continue increasing, so it’s wise to prepare for higher rates in the coming years.
Best Temperatures to Set Your Thermostat in Summer
While you can’t control the rising cost of energy, there are several strategies you can use to lower your overall energy bill during both the summer and winter months. These strategies range from simple adjustments to more extensive upgrades:
- Simple Fixes: Rely more heavily on fans to circulate air.
- Extensive Upgrades: Consider installing a heat pump for more efficient heating and cooling.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to save on energy costs is by properly setting your thermostat. Here are the ideal temperatures for maximizing your savings:
- Summer: Set your thermostat to a higher temperature when you’re at home and increase it further when you’re away.
- Winter: Lower your thermostat while you’re at home and decrease it even more when you’re not around.
If you have a smart thermostat, following these guidelines becomes even simpler, as these devices can automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences.
According to the Department of Energy, the less difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. The department recommends leaving your thermostat at 78°F when you’re at home and in the 80°F range when you’re away or sleeping.
Maximizing Comfort and Savings: The Best Thermostat Settings for Summer
Sure, you could save a good bit of change by keeping your home this warm during the summer, but for many, it’s way too hot. That’s why this number is more of a suggestion than a hard rule. Energy Star advises consumers to just use these temperatures as starting points but acknowledges the need to adjust the settings to fit your lifestyle.
Finding Your Ideal Temperature
If maintaining your home at 78°F or higher is just too uncomfortable, the Department of Energy (DOE) offers a more flexible recommendation. They suggest setting your thermostat to the highest temperature that you find comfortable while ensuring adequate humidity control if necessary.
The Impact of Temperature on Sleep Quality
Hotter temperatures can actually decrease the quality of your sleep. Many experts agree that 65°F is the ideal temperature for a good night’s rest. However, keeping your home this cool can significantly increase your power bill. It’s essential to strike the right balance between saving money and maintaining comfort.
- Start with Energy Star’s recommended temperatures as a baseline.
- Adjust the thermostat to the highest comfortable setting for you.
- Ensure humidity control for better comfort and health.
- Find a balance between cost savings and sleep quality.
Looking for ways to stay cool without cranking up the air conditioning? There are several effective strategies you can employ. For instance, consider using ceiling fans properly, installing an exterior window shade or awning, and keeping sunlight out with window coverings. These methods can help maintain a comfortable temperature in your home without relying heavily on your air conditioner.
Best Temperatures to Set Your Thermostat in Winter
The Department of Energy suggests that maintaining a lower interior temperature can slow down heat loss. During the winter months, it’s recommended to set your thermostat between 68°F to 70°F while you’re awake. When you’re away or asleep, lowering the thermostat can lead to significant savings. If you find yourself getting too cold at night, you can always bundle up or use a space heater for a few hours to warm specific areas of your home.
Consider Installing a Heat Pump
If you’re looking to make a long-term investment in energy efficiency, installing a heat pump might be a wise choice. Although the upfront costs can be high, heat pumps can help you save on both cooling and heating expenses. Plus, there’s a tax credit available for installation. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), heat pumps can lower energy bills for a significant portion of American households—ranging from 62% to 95% depending on the heat pump’s efficiency.
