What should you set your thermostat at in the summer?
I'll answer
Earn 20 gold coins for an accepted answer.20
Earn 20 gold coins for an accepted answer.
40more
40more
Harper Ward
Studied at the University of Oxford, Lives in Oxford, UK.
As a home energy efficiency expert, I've spent a considerable amount of time studying how to optimize the use of thermostats to maintain comfort while reducing energy consumption. The summer months can be particularly challenging due to the heat, and setting the right thermostat temperature is key to achieving both comfort and efficiency.
Firstly, it's important to understand that every degree you set your thermostat above the recommended 78°F (26°C) can increase your cooling bill by up to 6%. This is because air conditioning systems work harder to cool the space as the temperature difference between the inside and outside increases. Therefore, setting your thermostat as high as comfortably possible is a good starting point.
However, the "comfortably possible" part is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may find 78°F (26°C) to be too warm, while others may feel perfectly comfortable at that temperature. It's essential to find a balance that works for you and your household, keeping in mind that the goal is to be as energy efficient as possible without sacrificing comfort.
Next, consider the time of day and your daily routine. If you're not at home during the hottest part of the day, there's no need to cool an empty house. You can set your thermostat higher when you're away and then lower it to your desired comfort level when you return home. This is where programmable thermostats come in handy. They allow you to set a schedule that automatically adjusts the temperature based on your presence or absence.
Moreover, don't forget about the sun's impact. If your home gets a lot of sunlight, especially in the afternoon, the temperature inside can increase significantly. Using blinds, shades, or curtains can help to block out the sun and keep the interior cooler. This can allow you to set your thermostat higher without feeling the heat as much.
Another factor to consider is the humidity. High humidity can make the air feel warmer than it actually is. If you live in a humid climate, you might want to consider a dehumidifier to help manage the indoor humidity levels, which can make a noticeable difference in comfort.
Lastly, don't overlook the benefits of good insulation and air sealing. A well-insulated and sealed home will maintain a more consistent temperature, requiring less energy to cool or heat. Investing in these improvements can pay off in the long run by reducing your overall energy bills.
In summary, setting your thermostat in the summer involves balancing comfort with energy efficiency. Start by setting it as high as you can comfortably tolerate, consider your daily routine and the impact of sunlight, manage humidity, and ensure your home is well-insulated and sealed. With these strategies in place, you can enjoy a comfortable summer while keeping your energy bills in check.
Firstly, it's important to understand that every degree you set your thermostat above the recommended 78°F (26°C) can increase your cooling bill by up to 6%. This is because air conditioning systems work harder to cool the space as the temperature difference between the inside and outside increases. Therefore, setting your thermostat as high as comfortably possible is a good starting point.
However, the "comfortably possible" part is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may find 78°F (26°C) to be too warm, while others may feel perfectly comfortable at that temperature. It's essential to find a balance that works for you and your household, keeping in mind that the goal is to be as energy efficient as possible without sacrificing comfort.
Next, consider the time of day and your daily routine. If you're not at home during the hottest part of the day, there's no need to cool an empty house. You can set your thermostat higher when you're away and then lower it to your desired comfort level when you return home. This is where programmable thermostats come in handy. They allow you to set a schedule that automatically adjusts the temperature based on your presence or absence.
Moreover, don't forget about the sun's impact. If your home gets a lot of sunlight, especially in the afternoon, the temperature inside can increase significantly. Using blinds, shades, or curtains can help to block out the sun and keep the interior cooler. This can allow you to set your thermostat higher without feeling the heat as much.
Another factor to consider is the humidity. High humidity can make the air feel warmer than it actually is. If you live in a humid climate, you might want to consider a dehumidifier to help manage the indoor humidity levels, which can make a noticeable difference in comfort.
Lastly, don't overlook the benefits of good insulation and air sealing. A well-insulated and sealed home will maintain a more consistent temperature, requiring less energy to cool or heat. Investing in these improvements can pay off in the long run by reducing your overall energy bills.
In summary, setting your thermostat in the summer involves balancing comfort with energy efficiency. Start by setting it as high as you can comfortably tolerate, consider your daily routine and the impact of sunlight, manage humidity, and ensure your home is well-insulated and sealed. With these strategies in place, you can enjoy a comfortable summer while keeping your energy bills in check.
2024-05-20 00:45:33
reply(1)
Helpful(1122)
Helpful
Helpful(2)
Works at the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes, Lives in Washington, D.C., USA.
Operate Your Thermostat EfficientlySet your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. ... Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and lower the thermostat setting to 78--F (26--C) only when you are at home and need cooling.More items...
2023-06-13 10:09:25
Charlotte Hughes
QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Operate Your Thermostat EfficientlySet your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. ... Keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and lower the thermostat setting to 78--F (26--C) only when you are at home and need cooling.More items...
