Using the correct thermostat settings during the summer in Livermore, CA is crucial to saving money and keeping your home comfortable. Even small changes in temperature can make a huge difference in how much energy the AC uses. With the right energy-efficient AC settings, the AC will last longer, perfrom better and even improve indoor air quality.
Let’s take a close look at what temp to set the thermostat in summer and how you can improve your AC’s overall performance.
The Ideal Summer Thermostat Temperature
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the best summer thermostat temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit when home and 85 degrees Fahrenheit when away. This will help the AC maintain balanced comfort without using excess energy, even during extremely hot weather.
When you’re having people over or spending time in the kitchen, cooler settings can help. Just remember to reset the thermostat once things cool down so that the system doesn’t overwork or waste energy. For every degree you lower the thermostat, you can expect a noticeable increase in energy use. If the humidity is unusually high, you may need to adjust the setting for better moisture control.
Tips for Maximizing Cooling Efficiency
Eagle Air HVAC tips can help you get the most out of your cooling system all summer long. Using ceiling fans is one of the easiest ways to boost the AC’s performance. Thanks to the breeze effect created by the spinning blades, you can set the thermostat higher so that the AC doesn’t run as often. This means less wear and tear and a longer-lasting cooling system. But you must make sure the blades rotate in a counterclockwise motion to push cool air downward.
It also helps to keep blinds and curtains closed during peak sun hours. By preventing the warmth from the sun from entering your home, the AC won’t kick on as much. Another smart tip is to seal air leaks around windows and doors using caulk or weather stripping. This keeps the conditioned air inside where it belongs and prevents hot outdoor air from sneaking in.
Programmable vs. Smart Thermostats
Deciding between a programmable versus a smart thermostat is a wise move as a homeowner. The right type can lead to huge energy savings on your heating and cooling costs. Programmable versions save energy by making sure the AC runs only when you need it to. Smart versions boost energy efficiency with programmable schedules, remote access, learning features and more. They even have automation options for occupancy sensing or weather-based adjustments. The best type for Livermore homes all depends on your lifestyle and energy goals. We can do an assessment of your home and its HVAC system to determine the best fit.
How Local Climate Affects Thermostat Settings
The local climate in Livermore affects thermostat settings in multiple ways. For starters, the average summer highs of around 82-87 degrees Fahrenheit mean the AC will need to run regularly to keep you cool. And due to the dry air that frequently lingers throughout the summer, you might need to adjust for indoor humidity levels. Many homeowners use a whole-home humidifier to add moisture back into the air, which helps the AC run more efficiently. It won’t have to work as hard because the humidifier will automatically balance the indoor air, making it feel cooler and more comfortable at a higher thermostat setting.
The right settings for the thermostat impact your system’s lifespan in many ways:
- Reduces unnecessary system cycling
- Maintains steady indoor temperatures
- Lessens wear on the compressor
- Improves overall energy efficiency
- Decreases demand during hottest parts of the day
Eagle Air Can Help Optimize Your Cooling
Eagle Air is ready to keep your home cool, comfortable and energy-efficient all summer. Our AC inspections and tune-ups work great for finding and fixing small issues before they turn into costly repairs. We’ll check the refrigerant level, inspect for clogged filters, wipe down all coils and more. We can even calibrate the thermostat and double-check its settings to ensure it maintains accurate temperature control. Our local expertise in Livermore’s climate conditions means you receive customized service that works best for your home.
Contact Eagle Air now to schedule an AC inspection for your house in Livermore.
