Are There Perfect Indoor Temperature Settings?
Most households discuss indoor temperature settings at least twice annually—at the beginning of the cooling season and the beginning of the heating season. The struggle is, . . . well, people. No two of us are alike and that extends to our comfort level when it comes to indoor temperatures.
While some will call themselves “warm-blooded,” and others consider themselves “cold-blooded,” these names declare a preference for indoor temperature settings.
Are there perfect settings? Can you find a compromise that will make every occupant happy? Let’s give it a try.
In most locations, both in Spring and Fall, there are periods of almost idyllic weather—the perfect temperature and humidity, with plenty of sunlight. The windows are opened because inside and outside temperatures are about the same. Ah . . . if only the weather could stay that way year-round!
After a relatively short period, the changing season brings more extreme temperatures and we rely upon our heating/cooling system to keep us comfortable. Two major considerations govern how hot or cool we keep our homes during summer or winter.
Residential AC: Energy Costs
The energy efficiency of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems has improved tremendously over the years. New construction techniques also seal and insulate homes better, keeping conditioned air inside better than drafty, older homes.
Even with improved efficiency, wise energy consumers will consider both the financial and environmental cost of energy and make wise choices concerning temperature settings.
For the cooling season, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)recommends1:
For the heating season, the DOE recommends setting the heat at:
Before you ignore the rest of the information, understand that energy costs are only one consideration. New HVAC systems are designed to minimize energy use at the stated settings. If you raise the AC setting and/or lower the heat setting by 100 for 8 hours per day, you should see an energy use reduction of up to 15%. The DOE is focused on energy efficiency, not comfort. Let’s consider comfort as well.
Residential AC: Personal Comfort
For most people, 780 F in the summer is too warm and 680 F in the winter is too cold. However, our comfort level can be expanded a little bit. Often, the difference between “too much” and “just right” is only a degree or two. Here are some suggestions for expanding your temperature comfort level;
Residential AC: Applying What You’ve Learned
If you understand the “ideals” of energy efficiency and have explored comfort tolerances with family members, you can develop a schedule of temperature setting that comes close to “perfect.”
However, it is not practical to stay home all day in order to change the temperature setting on the thermostat. The best method for implementing your schedule is with a programmable thermostat.
Programmable thermostats are relatively simple improvements with remarkable flexibility. Temperature settings are inputted according to the desired schedule, keeping your family comfortable while saving as much energy as possible. Your schedule can change at least six times per day. Let’s consider a potential cooling schedule at an average home:
After extensive study, the DOE has determined that an average home that schedules a thermostat setting change of 5 to 10 degrees for 8 or more hours, will save 5 to 15% on their total energy bill.
Northwind AC has a variety of programmable and smart thermostats. Our technicians have considerable experience with installation and with educating homeowners on proper programming. Once you have determined your “perfect” temperature schedule, let us help you achieve your savings and comfort goals.
Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help with Residential AC Maintenance and repair. Contact us and get the answers you need.
1 https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/thermostats