It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

The key is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. This means establishing various temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.

If you're willing to make these adjustments, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you're home, you want comfortable temperatures. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house 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. With this adjustment, you'll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Gone

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it's extremely common to move the thermostat higher than normal.

Depending on the local climate or your home's location, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 88 degrees while no one is home before lowering it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning won't have to work constantly to cool an empty house.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night's sleep during the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There's less risk of getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get warmer when no one is around. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you have the ability to remotely access and change the temperature through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: Upgrading your HVAC system saves money right from the start. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, your utility bills will be lower because it 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: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in [targetlocation] can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are old and less effective, an AC unit has to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside during the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your air ducts: A leak in the air ducts could increase your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can affect equipment such as your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances to get into the atmosphere of your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing up other leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping helps keep things cooler during those hot summer days. Don't forget to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Making time to seal leaks now can help you save a lot over time.