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.

It starts with your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re asleep.

If you’re willing to make these adjustments, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Check out our guide on how your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. For the most part, you probably have 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 actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you’ll keep cool while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Away

When 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.

For some homes, 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. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold at some point overnight.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce 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 get a little warmer when no one is around. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Mobile home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature even when you aren’t home.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system saves money right from the start. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Mobile is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc who can set you up for success.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Mobile can have a significant impact on your utility bills. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on key parts 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 improving airflow. 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.
  • Check your attic insulation: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your air ducts: 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 fix both of those problems.
  • 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. 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.