Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to keep costs down, even when you're out of the house.

It starts with 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 at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

If you're willing to make these adjustments, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Whenever you're at home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. It's only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to appreciate the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures for the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you'll avoid the worst of summer while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Gone

When it comes to setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, it's extremely common to move the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.

Depending on the local climate or your home's location, you can set the temperature as high as 88 degrees while no one is home and then lower it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees once you're home again. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to cool an empty house.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night's sleep during the summer, you want a nice cool temperature. 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: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and home environment. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get warmer when no one is home. With reliable brands like 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 whether you're at home or across the country.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: Upgrading your HVAC system saves money right from the start. With greater energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is a great way to beat the heat in the summer
  • 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. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by improving airflow. 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 result in breakdowns.
  • Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside during the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) recommends that homes in the southern United States should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Check your ductwork: Leaky ductwork can raise 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 address both concerns.
  • 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. 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.