Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

The key is your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. You can create a number of automated 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. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want a nice range of pleasant 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 actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you can stay cool 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, it’s advantageous to set 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 and then lower it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees once you’re home again. This way, your air conditioning won’t have to work constantly to keep an empty house cool.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night’s sleep during the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A great place to start is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There’s less risk of getting too hot or too cold at some point overnight.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. It’ll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when the house is empty. With models like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Port Orchard home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Port Orchard is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Port Orchard can have a significant impact on your utility bills. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce 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 this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside during the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Review 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. Watching for signs of leaks and sealing them can help with both these issues.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing up other leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. It’s also important to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Taking the time to seal up any leaks now can help you save a lot in the long term.