Finding the perfect balance between comfort and energy efficiency during the steamy summer months can be a bit of a juggling act. With temperatures soaring high, especially in regions like St. Louis, ensuring your home remains cool without burning a hole in your pocket is paramount. So, what are the best thermostat settings for summer? Let’s find out.
To learn more about improving energy efficiency and to schedule HVAC maintenance to keep your HVAC system running efficiently, contact the experts at Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis today.
Understanding Your Thermostat
Modern thermostats offer various features, from basic temperature control to programmable settings and smart technology, which can adapt to your routine and preferences. No matter what type you have, optimizing your thermostat settings for summer will contribute significantly to your comfort and energy savings.
What is the Ideal Temperature Setting for Summer?
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you are at home during the day in summer. This setting strikes an effective balance between comfort and energy efficiency. By keeping it at this level, you can comfortably go about your activities without feeling sweltered.
When you are away from home, consider raising the temperature by 7-10 degrees. Many modern thermostats allow you to schedule these changes, so you don’t have to remember to adjust the settings manually. Once you return, set it back to 78°F, or use the ‘Away’ feature on smart thermostats to automatically return to your preferred temperature when it senses you’re nearby.
Night Time Thermostat Settings for Summer
Nighttime can be tricky because comfort needs can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, setting your thermostat slightly higher at night – around 80-82°F – can still keep you comfortable, especially if you use fans to circulate air.
Fans are an excellent supplement to your air conditioning. They create a wind-chill effect, which can make you feel cooler even if the temperature is set a bit higher. Ceiling fans, especially, are a great way to enhance comfort without significantly impacting energy costs.
St. Louis Summers and Humidity
Summer in St. Louis is known for high temperatures and oppressive humidity. The added moisture in the air can make everything feel hotter than it actually is, tempting you to crank up the AC. However, instead of focusing solely on lowering your thermostat settings for summer, consider using a dehumidifier.
Dehumidifiers help reduce the moisture levels in your home, making the air feel cooler and more comfortable. By maintaining a lower humidity level, you can keep your thermostat settings higher and still enjoy a pleasant indoor environment. This approach can save you a significant amount on your energy bills.
Energy-Saving Tips
In addition to optimizing your thermostat settings for summer, several other practices can enhance energy efficiency during summer:
- Seal windows and doors: Make sure there are no gaps or leaks. This will keep the cool air inside and the hot air outside, reducing the strain on your air conditioning system.
- Use blinds and curtains: Keeping window coverings closed during the hottest parts of the day can block out the sun and reduce indoor temperatures.
- Cook smart: Use your oven less and opt for grilling outside or using the microwave. Ovens can heat up your home quickly, making your AC work harder.
- Regular maintenance: Have your air conditioning system serviced regularly to ensure it is running efficiently. Clean or replace filters as needed to maintain optimal airflow.
Invest in a Smart Thermostat
For those looking to maximize both comfort and savings, investing in a smart thermostat is a brilliant idea. These devices offer advanced features like learning your schedule, remote control via smartphone, and energy reports to help you understand and improve your energy usage. Many smart thermostats also adjust themselves based on weather conditions, making them ideal for dealing with the fluctuating temperatures of a St. Louis summer.
Let Galmiche and Sons Help with the Ideal Thermostat Settings for Summer
By understanding the optimal settings and incorporating a few smart practices, you can maintain a comfortable living environment and keep your energy bills in check, even during the peak of a St. Louis summer. Contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today to learn more.
