It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but you should know there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you're not even home.

The key is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re 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. Check out our guide on how your thermostat doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you're home, you want comfortable temperatures. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to make the most of the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you'll avoid the worst of summer while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Out of the House

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher for while they're gone.

For some homes, you can set the thermostat to temperatures as high as 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 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 when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and home environment. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is around. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you're at home or across the country.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is a breeze for experienced professionals like [siteinfo field="name"]
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in [targetlocation] can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller 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 a vital part of maintaining an 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 have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Check your ventilation: Leaky ductwork can raise your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can affect equipment such as your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances throughout your home. Watching for signs of leaks 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. 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 in the long term.