The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Sunshine Protection Act, a legislative effort to make Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent year-round. If enacted, this change would eliminate the practice of adjusting clocks forward by one hour in March and backward in November, a ritual observed by most Americans.
The proposed legislation would result in lighter evenings but darker mornings. The specific effects on daylight hours could vary significantly depending on geographic location within the United States. Homeowners in southern states like Alabama, Florida, and Texas might experience more usable daylight in the evening, while those in northern states such as Maine, Michigan, and Wisconsin could face considerably later sunrises.
Beyond altering daily schedules, permanent DST could influence homeowners' energy consumption. With more daylight in the evenings, reliance on artificial indoor lighting may decrease, potentially leading to minor reductions in electricity usage. However, Brandon Young, CEO of Payless Power, suggests that any savings could be offset by increased heating and cooling demands. During darker, colder winter mornings, furnaces might need to work harder before sunrise, and in the summer, extended evening sunlight could increase indoor temperatures, prompting air conditioners to run longer during peak energy use periods.
The extended evening daylight could also have implications for home security. With more natural light available after typical working hours, opportunities for nighttime criminal activity might be reduced. For those considering selling their homes, the additional evening daylight could be beneficial, as more potential buyers tend to view properties in the evenings. The enhanced natural light could also improve the presentation of a home's exterior and curb appeal.
In anticipation of darker winter mornings under a permanent DST system, homeowners can adapt their smart home technologies. Experts suggest programming smart thermostats to preheat homes approximately 30 to 45 minutes before waking, rather than running all night. Utilizing zoned heating, where unused rooms are isolated, can further optimize energy efficiency. Smart shades can be employed to retain heat by closing at sunset, while smart bulbs with a gradual sunrise feature can help enhance alertness in the morning.
Adjusting to the time change can be challenging, with a significant portion of Americans reporting it takes days or even weeks to acclimate. Smart home devices can automate adjustments, easing the transition. Additionally, individuals utilizing time-of-use electricity pricing can schedule high-consumption appliances like dishwashers and laundry machines to run outside of peak hours, potentially leading to cost savings.