As May rolls around and temperatures rise, you ask the age-old question: “What temperature should I set my thermostat at?”
Biard & Crockett is here to guide you through this thermostat tango, and we’ve even thrown in some fun facts for good measure. So, put on your dancing shoes, and let’s waltz through the world of thermostat settings!
The ideal thermostat setting
While everyone’s comfort preferences may vary, the general rule of thumb for the ideal thermostat setting during warmer months is 78° when you’re at home and awake. This temperature strikes a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. We know that for some people, that’s way too hot, but it will save you on your utility bills.
When you’re away from home, consider turning it up again to save even more on your energy bills. Don’t turn your A/C off because that actually wastes energy (more energy is needed to reach a specific temperature if you’ve turned your A/C off and back on). With a programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat, you can schedule these temperature changes to happen automatically, so you won’t even have to think about it!
Fun facts about thermostat settings
Now that we’ve got the basics covered let’s dive into some interesting and fun facts about thermostat settings:
Energy savings: For every degree, you raise your thermostat setting in the summer, you can save 1% on your energy bill. (The Department of Energy arrived at this figure by also assuming this would be for 8 hours a day, so you can save even more per degree if the thermostat is raised for more than 8 hours a day.)
Dress for success: Did you know that wearing lightweight, breathable fabrics can help you feel more comfortable at higher thermostat settings? I mean, it’s partly obvious, but more specifically, opting for materials such as cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo (YES, you can get clothes with fabric made of bamboo) or Tencel can help regulate your body temperature. This allows you to feel cooler and more at ease, even when the thermostat is set a few degrees higher.
Smart thermostats: These nifty devices can learn your preferences and schedule, automatically adjusting your thermostat settings to optimize comfort and efficiency. Some smart thermostats can even be controlled remotely, so you can change the temperature from your smartphone!
So, as April ushers in warmer weather in Orange County, remember to set your thermostat at an energy-efficient temp up to 78° while you’re home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with higher settings when you’re away.
And, of course, if you need help with your A/C system or have any questions, your friends at Biard & Crockett are just a phone call away. Call us anytime at (714) 602-1299, or schedule an appointment on our website.