Best AC settings for energy savings explained

On a sweltering summer day, there’s no better feeling than turning down the air conditioning and chilling out indoors. But given your AC system’s significant appetite for electricity, it’s important to keep an eye on energy usage when outside temps begin to climb.

Knowing how to manage and monitor your AC can help you save on your electric bills and system maintenance costs. It can even make a positive impact on overall electricity demand and our natural environment.

At Reliant, we’re here with some simple, practical approaches that can help you stay energy efficient while you keep your cool during summer. Let’s get started on our journey to find your AC sweet spot.

What’s the ideal summertime temperature for my AC?

While there’s no one “best” temperature for every comfort level, setting your thermostat to 78°F while you’re at home and awake is often recommended as a starting point for both comfort and efficiency. Combining this setting with ceiling fans or portable room fans can help ensure you stay cool without overworking your AC.

Daytime vs. nighttime settings

Adjusting your thermostat based on the time of day can lead to energy savings. Raising the temperature during the day when no one is home and lowering it when you return or at night can keep your home comfortable without unnecessary energy use.

Some studies have suggested that setting your thermostat lower at night also promotes more restful sleep. This cooler setting aligns with your body's natural drop in temperature, helping you potentially fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper slumber.

The 4-by-4 rule

By following the “4-by-4” rule, you can integrate your daily routine into your AC management. How does 4-by-4 work? Just remember to set your thermostat 4 degrees higher when you’ll be away from home for more than 4 hours to reduce electricity usage and costs. When you return home, you can readjust to your standard setting preference.*

Programmable or smart thermostat: Which is right for you?

Choosing between a programmable and true smart thermostat depends on your lifestyle and how much control you want over your AC settings.

Programmable thermostats allow you to set your AC to follow a schedule, while smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust themselves automatically for optimal comfort and efficiency. Both choices can lead to energy savings, but for many people, smart thermostats offer a higher level of convenience and effortless precision.

Maintenance tips for maximizing your AC's efficiency

To help ensure efficiency and peak performance, schedule regular, professional tune-ups for your HVAC system — twice annually if possible. Spring and fall, prior to summer and winter temperature extremes, are good seasons to have a technician check and ensure your system is running at its best.

These checks help catch any potential issues before they become major problems and can help your system run as smoothly as possible.

The role of air filters and refrigerant levels

Changing your air filters regularly and ensuring your AC has the correct refrigerant level are simple yet effective ways to maximize efficiency. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder, while incorrect refrigerant levels can reduce your system's efficiency. Your refrigerant level will be addressed by a professional.

The impact of humidity on your comfort and AC efficiency 

Humidity plays a significant role in how comfortable you feel in your home. High humidity can make it feel warmer than it actually is. Using dehumidifiers in conjunction with your AC can help maintain a comfortable humidity level, allowing you to set your thermostat higher and save on energy costs.

Best practices for AC temperature energy savings

While there are no absolute “rules” that will universally cover everyone’s home and need for energy savings, a few guidelines can help provide a balance between comfort and savings.

During the summer, when outside temps are at their peak:

• Keep your thermostat at 78°F (26°C) when you're home.
• Set your AC fan to the "auto" rather than the "on" setting. Using the "on" setting can increase energy costs and make the AC work harder to maintain your desired temperature.
• Follow the 4-by-4 rule when you’re away: Raise your thermostat 4 degrees if you’ll be gone at least 4 hours.
• Use a programmable or smart thermostat for automatic adjustments.
   

More helpful summertime tips:

• Prevent your AC from working harder to cool by sealing any drafty windows and exterior doors with caulk and weatherstripping.
• Install ceiling fans and set the blades to spin counter-clockwise to circulate cool air.
• Close blinds and shades on sunny days to prevent heat buildup and get the most out of cool air coming from your AC.
• Consider the humidity levels in your home when setting your thermostat; look into the benefits of a dehumidifier.

AC energy-savings FAQs

• How often should I change my air filter?
  It's recommended to change your air filter every 90 days, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
  
  
• Can ceiling fans really help save energy?
  Yes, ceiling fans can make a room feel cooler, allowing you to set your thermostat higher and save energy.
  
  
• Is it more efficient to leave my AC on all day or turn it off when I'm not home?
  It's more efficient to increase the temperature when you're not home. Programmable and smart thermostats can automate this process for you.

Embracing efficiency for comfort and savings

Efficient AC use is about more than just the chance to save money. It's about ensuring your comfort and contributing to more sustainable energy for everyone. By understanding the basics of the cooling operation, maintaining your system and making smart choices about temperature settings, you can enjoy a cooler, more efficient home. Let's stay cool, responsibly.

*U.S. Department of Energy https://energy.gov/energysaver/thermostats