Turn thermostat up by 4 degrees in warm weather
Why This is Green
Adjusting your thermostat is one of the simplest and most effective actions you can take to protect the environment and reduce your energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save around 10 percent a year on your cooling and heating bills by simply adjusting your thermostat up or down 10° to 15° for eight hours.
To save energy in the summer—or other warm weather months—use your central air conditioning system to keep your house warmer than normal when you’re away. Then keep the thermostat at 78°F when you are at home and feeling the need to cool down. If you don’t have central air, you can do this manually room by room.
So the question becomes: how warm can you tolerate. Is 78°F too warm? Try for four degrees—or more—above what you usually set it at. Not only do you save energy, but also you reduce the release of greenhouse gases and you save non-renewable resources.
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How To
In most systems and A/C units, adjusting your thermostat should be pretty straightforward. The hard part is ensuring everyone in your home keeps the temperature up (children, visiting relatives, hot spouses)! Stock up on popsicles and fans as incentive.
If you have a programmable thermostat, consult the owner’s guide for help.
