The One Thermostat Mistake That Could Cost You Money

Show of hands, who else fights with their family members over what temperature to keep the house thermostat at?!

In my household, I get cold easily but my boyfriend and my son get hot easily so it is a constant battle between keeping the thermostat at either 68 degrees or 72 degrees!

After weeks of triple-digit temperatures across the Borderland, many residents have been relying on their air conditioners around the clock just to stay comfortable. I'm one of them. But according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), I might be using a lot more electricity than necessary.

The DOE's Recommended Thermostat Settings

The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees while you're at home during the summer. *Gasps in Spanish*

While that may sound warm to many El Pasoans, energy experts say it's the ideal balance between comfort and efficiency.

Even better, adjusting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees higher for at least eight hours each day can reduce your annual cooling costs by up to 10 percent.

Here's the recommended daily schedule:

• Home during the day: 78°F
• Away from home: 82°F to 85°F
• Sleeping: 82°F for maximum efficiency, although many people find 72°F to 78°F more comfortable for sleeping.

If 78 degrees sounds too warm, experts recommend increasing your thermostat gradually by 1 degree at a time so your body has a chance to adjust.

Courtesy: Getty Images

More Ways to Stay Comfortable Without Cranking the AC

There are a few simple ways to help your home feel cooler while using less energy:

Use ceiling fans.
Fans create a wind-chill effect that can make a room feel about 4 degrees cooler. Just remember to turn them off when you leave the room since they cool people, not empty spaces.

Install a smart thermostat.
Programmable thermostats can automatically raise the temperature while you're away and cool your home before you return, helping lower energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

Don't completely turn off your AC when you're away for several days.
Instead, set it between 80 and 85 degrees. Running the system occasionally helps control humidity and can prevent musty odors or mold from developing inside your home.