As temperatures rise, the local HVAC experts at Peaden are offering advice on how to keep homes cool and energy-efficient during the summer months.
- Tony Hicks, Assistant GM and HVAC Service Manager at Peaden in Fort Walton Beach, recommends a balanced approach to thermostat settings. “It’s definitely ideal to bump the temperature up a little bit if no one’s going to be at the house for a while. That’s going to help save money,” Hicks said.
However, Hicks cautions against raising the temperature too high when leaving the house. “It’s easier for a system to maintain a temperature than have to drop it 10 degrees,” he explained. He suggests a six-degree swing, such as keeping the thermostat at 76 during the day and 70 at night.
Humidity control is another crucial factor in home comfort and maintenance. Hicks advises against setting the thermostat above 80 degrees in Florida, as it can lead to increased humidity and potential mildew growth.
- “Once that humidity creeps up, especially above 70%, that’s when you have a really high likelihood of mildew starting to build in the home,” he warned.
For remote homeowners or those with rental properties, Hicks strongly recommends WiFi thermostats. These devices allow users to adjust settings remotely and receive notifications about temperature changes in their homes. “It’s a huge tool that I would highly recommend any remote homeowner to have,” Hicks stated.
Regarding indoor humidity levels, Hicks suggests aiming for 50% to 60% humidity in a typical home with a properly sized air conditioner and good insulation. “Anytime it gets above 60 percent humidity, you’re going to feel the difference. It’s going to start feeling stickier, a little more uncomfortable,” he noted.
Peaden offers WiFi thermostat installation services, with technicians carrying various models in their vans for on-the-spot upgrades. The company can also order specific thermostats upon request.
As summer progresses, these expert tips can help homeowners maintain comfort while managing energy costs. Learn more
