Energy-Smart Ways to Keep Cool this Summer

As the mercury rises this summer, you may be tempted to turn your thermostat down to chillier temperatures. But hold that thought! Lowering the thermostat can strain your air conditioner, consume more energy, and potentially contribute to grid instability during periods of high demand.

Source: CBC News/YouTube

Senior Fellow in the buildings program at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Jennifer Amann, advises against this tactic. She explains that dialing down your thermostat doesn’t cool your home faster. Doing so might increase your energy use and put extra strain on your air conditioner.

So how can you stay comfortable without stressing your system and racking up your energy bills? Simple tweaks like adjusting your thermostat a degree or two warmer can lead to energy savings of about 1%. And remember, your AC doesn’t cool your home faster just because you set it to a lower temperature.

A 2014 study at the University of Georgia found that people felt comfortable with indoor temperatures ranging from 71 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Thomas Lawrence, one of the co-authors of the study, suggests setting the thermostat to 76 or 77 degrees if you’re home all day.

What about when you’re away? Amann recommends setting your thermostat 5 to 10 degrees warmer than your comfort zone. Doing so for eight hours a day could lead to significant annual energy savings.

To keep your home cool, consider other tactics beyond your AC. Ceiling fans, for example, can make a significant difference to your comfort with very little energy consumption. Other tips include closing your blinds or shades during the hottest parts of the day, avoiding heat-generating appliances during peak hours, and strategically opening and closing windows to increase ventilation, especially at night.

So, this summer, let’s beat the heat the smart way: by saving energy and staying comfortable without overworking our air conditioners!

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• How to Cool a Space without Air Conditioning

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