To avoid increased energy bills and extra work on your AC unit, you should not keep your thermostat too low.
As the warmer weather sets in in Buffalo, New York; homeowners try to escape the heat and humidity with air conditioning. To avoid increased energy bills and extra work on your AC unit, you should not keep your thermostat too low. What is the temperature you should set your AC at this summer?
What temperature should you set your AC at this summer?
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you are home during the warmer months. This temperature will allow you to stay cool and avoid higher electric bills.
How can you control humidity levels in your home while maintaining the temperature?
Now that we have answered what temperature you should set your AC at this summer, you may be wondering how that will impact your home’s humidity levels. When keeping your AC at higher temperatures humidity may be key to your discomfort.
One of the main jobs of an air conditioner is to reduce the relative humidity in your home. If you’re counting on your AC to tackle the humidity, make sure your unit isn’t too big for your home. If your HVAC system is too large, the system will only need to run for a short time to cool your Buffalo, NY home, and won’t be on long enough to remove all of the moisture from the air.
The EPA recommends an ideal humidity level of 30-50 percent during the warmer months. If you keep your home within this humidity level range, you will also be more comfortable. A dehumidifier can also help you achieve lower humidity.
What is the best way to keep the temperature in your home within the ideal range?
When it comes to keeping your Buffalo, NY home at the temperature you should set your AC at this summer, a programmable thermostat is the easiest way to do so.
The U.S. Department of Energy says you can save at least 10% a year on heating and cooling costs by having a programmable thermostat. With a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the times you turn on the heating or air conditioning in your home with a pre-set schedule. Programmable thermostats can store and repeat multiple daily settings, keeping your home within the ideal temperature range.
How can you keep your Buffalo, NY home cool during the summer?
Keeping your home set at 78°F may sound uncomfortable; however, you can help your air conditioner provide better cooling for less energy.
Follow the below tips to keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the summer months:
– Invest in an energy-efficient air conditioning unit.
– Use window coverings (i.e. curtains and blinds) that keep sunlight out and prevent heat from entering through the windows.
– Keep weather-stripping and caulk around doors and windows to maintain your home’s seal.
– When possible, try to grill outside to limit the use of appliances that generate heat.
– Install ceiling fans to increase cooling efficiency.
From Niagara Falls to Orchard Park and all points in-between, Reimer Home Services is Western New York’s local heating, cooling, and plumbing pros. No matter where you live in the Buffalo area, you can count on Reimer to be there for your home with our fast, Day or Night service.
No matter what temperature you set your AC at this summer, Reimer will help to ensure that you are cooling your home as efficiently as possible. Contact us today.
