If you want to keep your home cool in the summer without placing too much stress on your AC unit, follow the 20-degree rule. This will not only keep you cool, but will also keep your AC working properly. However, you should also consider supplementing this simple rule with other ways to keep your home cool.
Air conditioners are designed to cool your home to 15 to 20 degrees less than the outside temperature
When choosing an air conditioner, keep in mind that most are designed to keep your home at no more than 15 to 20 degrees lower than the temperature outside. This difference is significant and helps ensure that your home is comfortable. However, it is important to note that if the temperature inside your home is above that threshold, you will most likely have to use your air conditioner much more frequently than necessary.
If you live in a hot area, turn down the temperature in rooms that are often warm. Also, minimize the use of appliances that produce heat until late in the evening. If you are cooking, be mindful of the heat produced. Turning down the oven and stove will help reduce the amount of heat inside your home.
Aside from saving money on energy bills, understanding how your air conditioner works can help prolong the life of your unit. It is best to set your thermostat to 20 degrees less than the outside temperature to avoid running it continuously. Using the 20-degree rule will also help your air conditioner run more efficiently.
If you leave the house during peak heat hours, keep your air conditioner running to a comfortable temperature. The optimal temperature is 75-80 degrees. Once you return, you can lower the thermostat to a comfortable level.
They are not designed for higher temperatures
Keeping the temperature inside your home between 15 and 20 degrees lower than the outside temperature can help reduce the stress on your air conditioner. If you set the thermostat at a higher temperature than you normally do, your air conditioner will be forced to run all day, not just during the cool hours. As a result, your home will not get as cool as you’d like. You will notice that your electric bill will reflect this constant usage.
Using dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air in your home will help reduce the stress on your AC. When used properly, dehumidifiers can also help keep your home’s humidity level at a healthy level. This simple trick can help reduce the stress on your air conditioning unit significantly.
Another simple way to reduce the stress on your air conditioner is to minimize its usage. It’s important to reduce the use of appliances, because these appliances can add heat and humidity to your home. Also, install ceiling fans to help circulate cool air and check that your attic insulation and caulking are tight.
If you’re having problems with your air conditioner, check for leaks. Leaky windows can be a sign that your air conditioner is struggling to keep up. If you suspect a leak, call Clear the Air. In addition, you can reduce heat by closing windows and turning off your oven during the day.
They are not designed for improperly sized ductwork
One of the most common causes of breakdowns in home air conditioning systems is excessive heat. When the temperature outside exceeds 90 degrees, your AC has to work extra hard to cool your house. To avoid this, you can install a ceiling fan in your home. It also helps to make sure that your attic is well-insulated and has good caulking.
During the summer months, the temperature in your home should be at least 20 degrees cooler than the temperature outside. For example, if the temperature is 94 degrees outside, the thermostat should be set at 74 degrees inside. This will reduce the stress on your air conditioning unit, which is already working extra hard to fight heat and humidity. This stress will reduce its lifespan. By following the 20-degree rule, you can ensure that your home’s air conditioning unit will last longer.
When the temperature outside is 90 degrees, your home’s air conditioner is designed to cool the home to at least 20 degrees cooler. But if you live in an area that is consistently eighty to ninety degrees, it can be up to 77 degrees inside.
In addition to changing your thermostat setting, you can also make changes around your house to reduce the stress on your AC. Try adding drapes to your windows during the day to reduce daytime heat gain. You may also want to consider installing a ceiling fan to improve your comfort level. You can also install a whole home dehumidifier to help keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
