Here’s Why You Should Stop Setting Your Thermostat At 72 : The Hearty Soul

Setting your thermostat at 72 degrees Fahrenheit may seem like the perfect balance of comfort and energy efficiency. However, experts suggest that this common practice might not be as beneficial as you think. Here’s why you should reconsider your thermostat settings and how making a few adjustments can lead to significant benefits for both your wallet and the environment.

Save on Energy Costs

One of the most compelling reasons to adjust your thermostat is the potential for energy savings. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), setting your thermostat just a single degree higher can help you save 6 percent on your cooling costs.¹ For example, if your cooling bill is usually $170, raising the temperature by just one degree can save you over $10 a month.

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Reduce Environmental Impact

Running your air conditioner at lower temperatures consumes a lot of energy, which can have a significant environmental impact. Air conditioning is an energy-intensive process, and the refrigerants used in these systems contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.² By setting your thermostat to a higher temperature, you can reduce your energy consumption and, consequently, your carbon footprint.

Transport Minister Tetsuo Saito explained, “We would like to speedily proceed with discussions on the matter” regarding Japan’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through innovative transportation solutions.³

Improve Health and Comfort

While 72 degrees might feel comfortable for some, it can be too cold for others, leading to disputes over thermostat settings. Physiologically, we each have our own optimal thermal comfort level. It comes down to a few key factors, according to Boris Kingma, a human thermal performance researcher at the Netherlands Institute of Applied Technology (TNO). Factors like the environment, a person’s metabolic rate, general physiology, age, and clothing all play a role in determining comfort levels.

Avoid Energy Leakage

Leaving your thermostat at a constant temperature can be inefficient due to heat energy leakage. Heat moves from a region of high concentration to a region of low concentration. The higher the temperature difference between inside and outside, the faster the heat loss. Maintaining a consistent temperature inside when it’s warmer outside can cause energy leakage, increasing your utility bill.

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The Most Efficient Way to Control Your Thermostat

To help you run your HVAC more efficiently and save money, consider following an eight-hour routine. Change your thermostat to a more efficient setting when you leave for work and set it back when you return. The Florida Public Service Commission recommends setting your thermostat to 65 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summer when you’re not home. Small adjustments like this can reduce your utility bill by up to 15%.

The Benefit of Programmable Thermostats

For an ideal solution to energy efficiency, opt for a programmable thermostat. These devices can automatically adjust your thermostat settings based on your routine, saving you more energy than manual adjustments. On average, those who use programmable thermostats save more than those who constantly micromanage their thermostat.

Conclusion

Adjusting your thermostat settings from the typical 72 degrees can lead to significant energy savings, reduced environmental impact, and improved comfort. By understanding the factors that influence thermal comfort and making small adjustments to your thermostat settings, you can enjoy a more efficient and sustainable way to stay comfortable year-round.

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