Summer Cooling Tips: Thermostats, Ceiling Fans, and Air Filters
It can be challenging to keep your home cool in the summer, especially when temperatures are high and your HVAC system has to work harder to keep up. A few simple adjustments can help lower energy use and reduce strain on your cooling system while still keeping your home comfortable. To help you beat the heat, here are answers to some of the most common summer cooling questions.
Which way should a ceiling fan turn in summer?
In the summer, a ceiling fan should turn counterclockwise. This pushes air downward and creates a cooling breeze that can make a room feel more comfortable.
To check your fan’s direction, stand beneath it while it’s running. If you feel a steady breeze blowing downward, it is turning the right way for summer. If not, turn the fan off and use the directional switch on the motor housing to reverse the blade direction.
While ceiling fans do not actually lower the temperature in a room, they can help you feel cooler, which may allow you to rely less on your air conditioner. However, since fans do not actually lower a room’s temperature, turn them off when you leave a room to save energy.
How often should an air filter be changed?
Your AC is likely working overtime in the summer, which means your air filter can get dirty more quickly. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, make your AC work harder, and in some cases cause it to stop cooling properly or even freeze over. You can usually tell when a filter is dirty just by looking at it.
Check your air filter at least once a month, especially during summer. Replace or clean it based on the filter type and the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a window AC unit, be sure to check its filter too, since it can collect dust and debris just like a central system filter.
What should a thermostat be set to in summer?
The best thermostat setting is the temperature closest to the outdoor temperature that still feels comfortable. When the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is smaller, your air conditioner doesn't have to work as hard to keep your home cool.
Generally, a thermostat setting between 76°F and 80°F provides a good balance of comfort and energy efficiency. Of course, the ideal setting depends on how hot it is where you live.
At night, when outdoor temperatures are lower, you may be able to lower the thermostat, and when you are not home, raise it a few degrees. A programmable or smart thermostat can make this easier by automatically adjusting throughout the day and night.
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