Saving on the power bill is a task we all set every year. As the temperatures start soaring or dipping, however, we tend to fiddle with the thermostat to set it to our comfort. As a result, our HVAC systems overwork to heat or cool our spaces. This is an obvious reason for power bills going up, and we all know it.

So, what can we do about it? The answer is to set it at the optimal HVAC temperatures to reduce the power bill. There are also other means to reduce the power bill, ranging from temperature adjustments to subtle lifestyle changes. Here’s a quick guide on how to find the optimal HVAC temperatures to reduce your power bill and other tips as compiled by our team of experts

1. The Optimal Temperature

The US Department of Energy recommends a temperature of 78 degrees in summer and 68 degrees in winter as the optimal HVAC temperatures to reduce your power bill. These optimum temperatures are calculated keeping in mind the difference in temperature with the external environment. Setting your thermometer to this temperature while you are at home can significantly reduce the power bill.

The US Department of Energy also recommends turning down the thermostat to a lower than required or turning up as per the weather when you plan to be away from home. As much as we love coming home to a pre-cooled or pre-heated home, it can make a major difference. Even a few degrees count. It is proven that each 7-8 degrees difference in temperature from the external environment can lead to an almost 10% difference in the power bill.

2. Bedtime temperature settings

You sleep best when your body is in the right thermal balance with your environment. During summers, the optimal HVAC temperature would be around 80 degrees with light clothes. Wear minimal clothing and use a fan to help you sleep better during summers while still saving on HVAC power bills.

3. Smart Thermostat

Investing in a smart thermostat is a viable option to reduce the power bill in the long run. Instead of having to adjust the temperature every time you go out or go to bed, the thermostat can be programmed to the optimal HVAC temperatures. Some smart thermometers also have remote control capabilities which give you better control over temperature.

4. Turning down a few degrees

HVAC systems, if used smartly, can save you a lot of money. One of the ways to do this is to tweak the thermostat at your home to test what temperatures your family can tolerate. Bringing it over time as close as possible to the optimum temperature ensures that you are doing your bit to save money. This is useful as for every degree you raise or lower, you can make a difference of 3-5% in the power bill. You can also take additional measures to reduce the dependency on HVAC to keep you cool or warm. For example, during summer, keeping the blinds drawn during the day, making small changes to your diet to stay more hydrated, wearing lighter clothes all help keep you cool without using one unit of additional power. Similarly, wearing warm clothes, covering the floor with rugs, using blankets while sleeping all help keep you warm without having to raise the HVAC temperature higher than optimal.

5. AC maintenance

Keeping your air conditioning system energy efficient is very important to keep a check on your power bill. A faulty AC unit, leaky duct, clogged filters are some of the issues you can bump into that can result in higher electricity consumption. Regular, annual service and maintenance of your AC can help keep it at its best. That way, it is easier to keep your temperature as well as power bill in check. 24 Seven HVAC is a reliable option for AC maintenance, servicing, repair, replacement, and more. With more than 35 years of experience in the field, 24 Seven HVAC has carved a niche for itself in this field.

Following the optimal HVAC temperature, as suggested by the US Department of Energy, can lead to a lighter power consumption while staying comfortable. For more information and advice on the optimal HVAC temperature to reduce your power bill, reach out to our team of experts at support@24sevenhvac.com