Everyone’s always looking to save money on their 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 structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

If you’re willing to make these adjustments, you’ll be able to enjoy comfortable temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you’re home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. For the most part, you probably have your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures for when you’re in your home during the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Away

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.

If your home is in a shady spot in a cooler climate, 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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime to cool an empty house.

While Asleep

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want a temperature that’s nice and cool. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from 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 as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if 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 can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Temple/Belton home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Temple/Belton is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Temple/Belton can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: A regular schedule for cleaning or replacing the HVAC system’s air filter saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, air conditioners have to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, keeping 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 colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Check your air ducts: Leaky ductwork can raise your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can also lead to problems with your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances throughout your home. Watching for signs of leaks 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 keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. Don’t forget to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Devoting time and effort to sealing leaks now can help you save a lot in the long run.