It’s always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it turns out 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 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.

By trying a few of these schedules, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you’re home, you want comfortable temperatures. It’s only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for when you’re in your home during the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you’ll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Out of the House

When it comes to setting the temperature for whenever you’re gone, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher for while they’re gone.

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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning won’t have to work constantly to provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Sleeping

For a full night’s rest during summer weather, you want a temperature that’s nice and cool. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. You won’t have to worry about getting too hot or too cold while you’re trying to sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get a little warmer 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. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Safford home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature even when you aren’t home.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system saves money right from the start. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Safford is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Safford can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly 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 strain can reduce the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Check if you have enough insulation in the attic: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside through 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 colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect 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. Finding any leaks fast 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 keeps temperatures a little 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.