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

The secret is your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. This means establishing various temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.

By trying a few of these schedules, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Here are some ways your thermostat doesn’t have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you’re home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. It’s only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer if you’re indoors to make the most of the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for when you’re in your home during the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you can stay cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Out of the House

When it comes to setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it’s extremely common to move 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 temperature as high as 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 provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night’s sleep during the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and home environment. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when the house is empty. 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 Eastland home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A high-efficiency 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 Eastland is a breeze for experienced professionals like J & J Air Conditioning.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Eastland can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice 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: A regular schedule for cleaning or replacing the HVAC system’s air filter saves money by improving airflow. When filters become clogged, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and result in breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside over the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) recommends that homes in the southern United States should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ventilation: A leak in the air ducts could increase your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can also lead to problems with your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances to get into the atmosphere of 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 up other leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. Don’t forget 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.