How Your Thermostat Setting Affects The Cost Of Air Conditioning

Your thermostat setting is a critical factor when determining how much it will cost to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. The lower your thermostat setting the higher your operating cost. A difference of only one degree (from 78 to 77) will increase the operating cost approximately 8 percent. The difference between a setting of 78 and 73 degrees is about 50 percent. In dollar terms, if the air conditioning portion of your electric bill normally costs you $30 a month with a thermostat setting of 78 degrees, lowering that setting to 73 degrees would cost $15 more.

Programmable thermostats (PT) can help you manage your costs by reducing operating costs while you are away. However, to see the benefits, you must utilize your PT properly. Be sure to read the manufacturer instructions and follow carefully. It also helps to install a PT that fits your lifestyle. If your routine varies from day-to-day be sure to use a 7-day PT. If your schedule during the week is the same but varies on the weekend, purchase a 5+2 model.

Managing your usage can help you stay cool when the bill comes because small changes can result in big savings over time.

Visit www.lcec.net for more energy savings tips and tools.