Phoenix, Arizona – As temperatures rise, the debate over how to set your thermostat heats up just as much as a scorching summer day. Last summer, a TikTok user from Phoenix known as @rainforestplumbingandac sparked a lively discussion with a suggestion on finding the perfect air conditioning setting.
According to the expert, adjusting your thermostat while you’re away at work can lead to cost savings. However, when you return home and lower the temperature, you end up spending that money right back. On the other hand, when going on a vacation for several days or weeks, setting your thermostat at a higher temperature can actually help you save money.
Maintaining a higher interior temperature closer to the outdoor temperature reduces the need for your air conditioner to run constantly. However, it is important to avoid letting the temperature inside your home become excessively high, as that can lead to increased humidity affecting items like drywall and food storage.
To maximize cost savings during a vacation, the recommendation is to set the thermostat 4 to 5 degrees higher than usual. Constantly adjusting the temperature every day forces the air conditioner to work harder, decreasing efficiency.
With record-breaking temperatures experienced last summer and no relief in sight for this year, air conditioning remains a hot topic for Americans and individuals worldwide. The increasing global temperatures have made air conditioning a necessity for billions of people, leading to a rise in air conditioner sales but also contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
In order to combat the effects of air conditioning on the environment, sustainable cooling solutions like heat pumps and smart devices are gaining popularity. Tips such as unplugging energy-consuming appliances, using curtains to block out sunlight, and upgrading insulation can also help reduce electricity usage and environmental impact.
Ultimately, the advice on how to set your thermostat varies depending on individual circumstances, home layout, and local climate. Each person’s unique situation may require a different approach to achieve optimal comfort and cost savings.