Deciding how to set your home’s air conditioning can be tricky as fall approaches. Cooler mornings and evenings may tempt you to turn off the system for the season, but fluctuating temperatures mean you must still run your cooling system periodically. Finding the right balance for your thermostat is key to maintaining a comfortable home while avoiding unnecessary energy costs. In this guide, we’ll explore four practical tips to help you determine the best settings for your air conditioning during the fall months, keeping your home comfortable while reducing energy costs.
1. Continue to follow the Department of Energy’s Recommendations in the Fall
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that you should set your thermostat to 78°F while home during the summer and fall to reduce energy bills. On milder fall days, you may be tempted to turn your cooling system off to save money. However, shutting it off may lead to higher energy bills in the long run.
When you power down your cooling system, the indoor temperature can rise significantly during unexpected warm days. Once you turn the system back on, it has to work much harder to bring your home back down to a comfortable temperature, using more energy than it would have if it had been left running at a consistent setting. Keeping your thermostat set to 78°F ensures your home stays within a manageable range without large temperature swings that can strain your system and lead to higher utility costs.
2. Set a Schedule
A smart or programmable thermostat allows you to create an energy-efficient schedule for keeping your home comfortable during the autumn months. You can program it to run at a higher temperature during the daytime when you’re away at work or running errands, minimizing unnecessary energy use when the house is empty.
The thermostat automatically adjusts to a cooler, more comfortable setting when you’re home. The schedule ensures that your AC runs when you need it most while conserving energy during periods when cooling is unnecessary. This type of scheduling is particularly important in the fall when outdoor temperatures fluctuate widely. Without it, family members may adjust your thermostat several times a day to feel comfortable, leading to inefficient cooling.
Additionally, if you have a smart thermostat, many can adapt based on weather patterns and even provide recommendations to optimize your schedule for maximum efficiency. These features help ensure your home stays comfortable while controlling energy costs.
3. Run Your Ceiling Fans
Manufacturers design modern ceiling fans to use very little energy, making them a cost-effective supplement to your air conditioning during fall. By running them in a counter-clockwise direction, the fans push cool air downward, creating a wind-chill effect that makes living spaces feel cooler. Using your ceiling fans allows you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort, ultimately reducing cooling costs.
4. Open the Windows
When fall brings milder weather, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures by opening your windows is a simple way to give your air conditioner a break. The key is to monitor outdoor temperatures closely. As long as the outside temperature remains close to or below what’s set on your thermostat, your cooling system won’t need to turn on, allowing you to save energy.
At night, consider opening your windows once temperatures drop. This practice can keep your home comfortable and reduce the need for air conditioning. However, it’s essential to close the windows early in the morning if temperatures are expected to rise. Doing so ensures that your AC won’t need to work extra hard later in the day to cool down your home after it’s been heated by outdoor air.
Your Local HVAC Experts
At Honey's Air & Solar, we have been serving the residents of Modesto, CA and the surrounding areas since 2009. We install, repair, and maintain heating and cooling systems. We can also help with all your indoor air quality and water treatment needs, including installing whole-home air or water filtration systems. In addition, we are solar panel installation experts and can help you get federal and state tax credits to defer the cost if you choose this environmentally friendly option. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
