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

The secret is your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

If you're willing to make these adjustments, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Here are some ways your thermostat doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

Whenever you're at home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer if you're indoors to make the most of the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Gone

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher than normal.

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 before you adjust it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees after you return. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There's less risk of getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and personal preferences. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when the house is empty. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures even when you aren’t home.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: A new HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is a breeze for experienced professionals like [siteinfo field="name"]
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with 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 keeping vents clear of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. 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.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: A regular schedule for cleaning or replacing the HVAC system's air filter saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, keeping 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 install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your air ducts: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can potentially allow harmful emissions from your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances throughout your home. Watching for signs of leaks and sealing them can address both concerns.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Finding and sealing any remaining leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. You should also 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 term.