In America, the average electric bill is over $100.00 per month and can be much higher depending on how large your home is, and what environment you live in. Regardless of the size of your home and where you live, there are ways to save money on your electric bill. One of the activities that consume the most electricity is heating and cooling your home. The temperature that you set your thermostat to can make a significant difference in the amount of the energy that you use. Listed below are the ideal temperatures to set your thermostat to depending on different circumstances.
What Temperature Should Your Home's Thermostat Be Set To?
To save money on your electric bill and to ensure maximum energy efficiency, it is recommended to alter your thermostat a couple of degrees depending on the time of year and if you're home or not. The recommended heating and cooling temperature for ideal year round comfort is between 70 and 78 Fahrenheit. However, this temperature can change depending on the time of year, and the climate you live in.
Warm Weather
If you live somewhere down south where it is consistently warm nearly every month of the year, you will be using the air conditioning quite often. With the constant use, even a couple of degrees can make a large cost difference. According to Energy Star, the most efficient temperature range is 70-78 degrees Fahrenheit, with 78 being the best. If you are used to having your home much cooler than that, consider adjusting your thermostat incrementally over a period of weeks until you are used the higher temperature.
Cold Weather
On the other end of the spectrum, for those who live in the north, or it is the middle of a cold spell, heating a home uses a significant amount of electricity as well. The most cost-efficient temperature to have your thermostat at for heating is 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you find yourself still cold at this temperature, consider throwing on an extra layer of clothes while you adjust.
Away From Home
If you are going on a work trip for a few days, or you are taking a family vacation, reducing the amount of air and heat used can save you money as well. While you are away from home, it is recommended you set your air conditioner to come on sometime between 85-88 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are preparing to set the heat, the most cost-efficient temperature recommended is between 55-60 degrees.
Sleeping
Another time to adjust your thermostat is slightly before you plan to turn in for the night. It has been found that the most ideal temperature for sleeping is at 66 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in mind that your body doesn't really need a specific temperature, but actually just needs a drop in temperature. Therefore, if you keep have the air conditioning set at 78 during the day, consider turning it down to 75 before bedtime.
The ideal temperature to set your thermostat to depends on several factors such as what season it is, if you are away from home, and what time of day it is. Overall, a few degrees can be a big difference. It is estimated that with every degree you adjust your thermostat; you could save 1-3% on your electric bill. Having a smart thermostat can make it much more simple to set different temperatures for when you are home and away, and for during the day verse during the night. Each degree matters and will really add up over time! If you have any questions or need help understanding your thermostat, don't be afraid to contact Dodrill Comfort & Energy Solutions.