Setting Your Thermostat During A Heat Wave
It’s been a very hot summer so far, and in our area of PA, we are ready to see a few more heat waves before the summer is over. Heat waves aren’t a new phenomenon for us, but for lots of homeowners, it’s still something that they have questions about. One of the most common questions we hear is, “How should I set my thermostat during a heat wave?”
Our answer is: Set the thermostat at a reasonable temperature around 15 – 20 degrees lower than outside, and leave it be!
Some people think you should blast the AC and make it as cold as possible. We also hear people asking if they should move the temperature up and down depending on the time of day. In our opinion, it’s best to set the thermostat and keep the system running consistently.
We have been working in the PA suburbs outside of Philadelphia since 1953, ensuring homes and businesses in our area are comfortable all year round. If you are having trouble with your cooling system, give us a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online!
What Temperature Should You Set Your Thermostat At?
You should aim to have your thermostat set between 15-20 degrees cooler than it is outside. It’s very difficult for an air conditioning system to get it much cooler than that. So for example, if we are experiencing a heat wave that’s peaking around 98 degrees, having the thermostat set between 78-80 is ideal. The higher the temperature you are comfortable with, the easier it’s going to be for your AC to function.
Now, if the temperature is lower, you can lower the AC temperature as well. The key is to have it set at a temperature that’s achievable, while not overworking your system.
Why You Shouldn’t Move Your Temperature Up And Down
During a heat wave, it’s very tough for an AC to recover if the temperature gets too warm. You may think that lowering the temperature during the day and raising it at night is the best way to save energy and create optimal comfort. The truth is that this can end up using MORE energy, and also creating comfort issues. If we have 100 degree days, it’s going to take a lot of work for the AC to cool the space down if the temperature was raised.
We recommend picking a temperature and simply leaving the unit run. This will help eliminate humidity, and keep your space feeling comfortable.
Can Overworking An AC Cause Failure?
Yes, an overworked air conditioner will cause problems eventually. If the system is running too hard, it can cause your system to freeze over, or simply stop working the way it should. This is why you should make sure that you aren’t setting the temperature too low. If you have the AC set in the 60s on a 100 degree day, it could end up causing a problem with your HVAC unit.
Tips To Cool Your Home
So, now that you have an idea of what temperature you should set your thermostat at, here are a few tips to help you keep your home cool, and take a little stress off of your AC system.
Keep The Sun Out
During the day, keep the sun out of your home as much as possible. Keep the blinds drawn in order to keep the sun from streaming in, which creates heat in your home unnecessarily. This is an easy way to bring your home down by a few degrees.
Some homeowners will even plant trees and bushes strategically around the home to provide shade that keeps the inside cooler. We recommend using blinds and curtains to keep the sun out!
Run Appliances At Night
Lots of appliances around your home produce heat. Laundry machines, dishwashers, ovens (obviously), all produce heat that can bring the temperature in your home up by a few degrees. We encourage you to wait until the nighttime to use these appliances, and keep them off during the peak hours of the day.
Cooking outside using the grill is a great way to reduce the heat inside your home as well!
Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans sometimes go overlooked when you have an air conditioner, but the truth is they still provide some relief from the heat. Make sure that they are set to counterclockwise in order to create a downdraft, and provide you will cool air. In the winter, they should be set to clockwise. I know this seems simple, but it’s something a lot of people forget about!
Change Your Air Filter
The air filter in your HVAC system catches any particles and airborne irritants that flow through your system. Over time, your filter can get filled up and potentially cause airflow issues. Changing the filter regularly, once every 1-3 months, will keep the air flowing properly, and improve the indoor air quality of your home!
Air Conditioner Service From John Cipollone Inc.
If you live west of the city, in Delaware County, Montgomery County, or the Main Line, we can help you out with air conditioner service. Whether you need routine maintenance, an AC repair, or a brand new cooling system, our experts have you covered. We’ve been working in the area for over 70 years, keeping homes and businesses cool and comfortable summer after summer.
If you need some help with your cooling, give us a call at (610) 446-7877, or contact us online. We’re the air conditioner experts from Havertown, and would love to help you out!
