The heat and humidity can be brutal in Martin County, Florida and air conditioning is an absolute necessity. An air conditioner not only helps cool the air inside your home, but it also removes some of the humidity so it’s more comfortable. Many people don’t quite understand how to set their thermostats in order to reap the maximum cooling power of their AC unit while also managing their utility bills. A few simple tips make it easier for homeowners to choose the right settings on their thermostat so they stay comfortable, save money, and help protect the environment.
Determine Your Ideal Temperature
When the mercury rises, it’s tempting to lower the thermostat on your air conditioner to the coolest possible setting. While that cool air may feel great, especially after being outdoors, it’s not necessary to have your unit set to the coldest setting. In fact, many people find that a daytime temperature of around 78 degrees is perfect, no matter how hot it is outside. Of course, you’ll have to negotiate the ideal number with your spouse and other family members in order to keep everyone happy and comfortable.
Simple Thermostat Adjustments
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that you adjust your thermostat based on the time of day and the external temperature. Keeping your thermostat set at 78 degrees during the day when you’re home and bumping it up a few degrees when you’re not at home and when you’re asleep. The theory is that a higher internal temperature helps slow the flow of heat into the home, keeping it cooler. In fact, the closer the interior temperature is to the outside, the better your AC unit will cool your home.
Manual vs. Programmable Thermostats
Although you can certainly make adjustments to your home’s temperature by manually adjusting the thermostat, it’s not the best way. If you get busy and forget, your air conditioner will pump out cool air all day when no one is home, or stay on all night when it’s not necessary. A programmable, or smart thermostat, allows you to choose the time of day for each adjustment and many also allow for remote adjustments through an app.
Benefits of Thermostat Adjustments
Time of day adjustments to your thermostat will not only keep you and your family cooler and more comfortable but also offer some other key benefits.
Save on Energy Bills
Experts agree that controlling your thermostat is a fantastic way to save energy and reduce your energy bills in the summer months. A simple adjustment of between 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from your unit’s normal setting can actually save you as much as 10% annually on your heating and cooling bills. You’ll see less fluctuation between your monthly bills as well so you can keep your budget under control, no matter the weather.
Protect the Environment
Every time you turn on your air conditioner, consider the impact it has on the natural environment around you. Fossil fuels must be burnt in order to produce the electricity required to run your unit. In turn, emissions such as carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and other environmental issues. Only using the AC when necessary and minding the temperature help mitigate these problems.
Stay Comfortable Year-Round
Your air conditioner is an essential part of your Florida home and you can get the most out of it by learning how to control your thermostat properly. If you want to learn more about how to adjust your thermostat, or if you have any other questions or concerns about air conditioning service in Port St. Lucie, contact us at American Air Cares. Our friendly staff and professional technicians will be happy to assist you in any way that they can.
