It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but you should know there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you're not even home.

The secret is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. This means establishing various temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

By trying a few of these schedules, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

Whenever you're at home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. For the most part, you probably have your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you'll keep cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Gone

If you're setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher for while they're gone.

For some homes, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 88 degrees while no one is home before you adjust it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to cool an empty house.

While Asleep

For a full night's rest during summer weather, you want a nice cool temperature. A great place to start is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. You won't have to worry about getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get warmer when no one is home. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, you can also count on lower utility bills since more efficient equipment requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is only a phone call away, so don't hesitate to reach out to local pros like [siteinfo field="name"] who can set you up for success
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in [targetlocation] can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. More efficient operation reduces strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are old and less effective, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and result in breakdowns.
  • Check your attic insulation: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside over the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your ductwork: A leak in the air ducts could increase your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can potentially allow harmful emissions from your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances to get into the atmosphere of your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can help with both these issues.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing leaky spots in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. It’s also important to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Taking the time to seal up any leaks now can help you save a lot in the long term.