The thermostat is one of the most powerful energy-saving tools at your disposal since about half of the electricity used in a typical home goes to heating and cooling. Used smartly, it can bring major energy savings while keeping you and your family comfortable.
During warm weather, the recommended indoor temperature is 78 degrees. During cold weather, set your thermostat to 68 degrees.
A properly configured programmable thermostat can save you 10% on your monthly utility bill. Program your thermostat to match your schedule, turning it up or down a few degrees when you’ll be out of the house, at work or school.
A smart thermostat can lead to even more savings, as it allows you to adjust the temperature remotely from your phone. For example, on a hot summer day you can run your thermostat higher while you’re out of the house, then cool things off before getting in the car to head home. If your schedule changes day to day, a smart thermostat can give you more control than a basic programmable system.
To keep things running efficiently, regularly clean or replace the filters of your HVAC system. Clogged filters make your system work harder to achieve your preferred temperature.
If you leave on a trip, don’t leave the AC on full blast but don’t turn it off either. If it’s a programmable thermostat, use the “hold” or the “vacation” setting—or set it to 85 degrees. For every degree a thermostat is raised during the summer, you may save up to 2% on your electricity bill.
Your thermostat can do a lot, but it can’t do it alone. A fan can be a great way to amplify the effects of your AC, keeping you cool in the summer. In the winter, adjusting your ceiling fan to turn clockwise can help distribute warm air. Turn off the fan before you leave the room.
Other energy-efficient upgrades to your home help too. Seal any leaks: Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to prevent conditioned air from escaping to the outdoors.
