Are you planning to go on vacation and wondering what to set your AC to while you’re away? It’s important to find the right balance between saving energy and keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. Here are a few tips to help you decide what temperature to set your AC at when you’re on vacation.
1. Consider the weather: The temperature outside will have an impact on how much you need to adjust your thermostat. If it’s going to be extremely hot or cold, you may need to make more significant adjustments.
2. Set the temperature higher: According to the U.S Department of Energy, setting your thermostat 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than your normal setting can save you up to 10% on cooling costs. So, if you usually keep your thermostat at 72 degrees, consider setting it between 78-82 degrees while you’re away.
3. Don’t turn off your AC completely: Turning off your AC entirely while on vacation isn’t recommended because it can cause humidity levels in your home to rise and lead to mold growth. Instead, adjust the temperature by a few degrees higher than usual.
4. Use a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day or week. This feature can come in handy when planning for vacation as you can set it higher during the day and lower at night.
The Benefits of Setting Your AC Temperature Higher While on Vacation
Setting your AC temperature higher while on vacation has several benefits:
- Saves energy: As mentioned earlier, adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees can lead to significant energy savings.
- Saves money: When using less energy, you’ll save money on cooling costs.
- Extends the lifespan of your AC: Running your AC less often can reduce wear and tear on the system, which can extend its lifespan.
- Helps the environment: Using less energy is better for the environment as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Conclusion
Setting your AC temperature higher while on vacation is a smart way to save energy and money. By following these tips, you can ensure that your home stays comfortable while you’re away and that you come back to lower energy bills. Remember to use a programmable thermostat, adjust the temperature based on the weather, and never turn off your AC entirely.