With Missouri seemingly experiencing a heat wave every other week, it's safe to say this year's summer will be one for the books.
Although temperatures across most of the state have been closer to seasonal averages lately, hot and humid weather is expected to return starting Saturday, July 25.
The National Weather Service predicts temperatures will reach anywhere from the mid-90s to around 100 degrees Fahrenheit beginning Sunday, July 26, with heat indices possibly reaching up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit in some parts.
With temperatures climbing, it begs the question: What's the ideal temperature for your air conditioner that won't break the bank?
Here's what to know.
What temperature should you set your thermostat to in the summer?
The best temperature to set your air conditioning is 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you wake
up, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star program.
Not many people follow this recommendation, though. A Consumer Reports survey found that the average temperature Americans keep their thermostats set to is about 71 degrees Fahrenheit. And while temperatures varied across regions, not a single respondent with central air conditioning indicated that they would set the temperature beyond 76 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.
Shop heat wave essentials on Amazon
What temperature should the thermostat be when I sleep during summer?
As temperatures ideally drop at night, Energy Star recommends people set their thermostats 4 degrees warmer when they go to bed. In this way, you can save money and rest comfortably.
Keep the house warmer when you're away
If you're away from home, you can avoid unnecessary energy usage by setting temperatures 7 degrees warmer, according to Energy Star.
Even 7 to 10 degrees for around 8 hours a day can save up to 10% off your annual cooling and heating costs.
Other summer energy tips
Even if you keep your thermostat in the upper‑70s, you can often feel more comfortable by using fans, blocking sunlight and reducing other heat sources in the home. Here are some tips:
- Close curtains and blinds. Keeping direct sunlight out of the house helps keep the inside from heating up.
- Start a fan club. Fans don't cool the air, but they do make you feel better as the moving air cools your skin and helps your body evaporate sweat.
- Keep vents clear. Blocking your vents blocks airflow, which prevents other rooms from cooling off.
- Check your insulation and weatherstripping. Check the weatherstripping around windows and doors, and make sure your attic is insulated to keep cool air in and hot air out.
- Keep your air conditioner maintained and healthy. Change your AC filter regularly, keep the area around your outside unit clear and keep the outdoor drain (if you have one) clear and unclogged.
More ways to save money on summer cooling bills
- Avoid the temptation to set your thermostat to a colder setting than normal when you enter a hot home. It won't cool the space any faster, but it can result in a higher bill.
- Run dishwasher with full loads only, and air dry dishes
- Use cold water when doing laundry
- Avoid using the oven unless necessary
- Turn off lights when not in use and unplug appliances even when turned off
- If the weather allows, open windows and turn off air conditioning at night to let cooler air in
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Missouri to see more 100+ degree days. This AC temp saves you the most.
