We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it turns out 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. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.

If you’re willing to make these adjustments, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Check out our guide on how your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you’re home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. It’s only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to appreciate the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Gone

If you’re setting the temperature for whenever you’re gone, it’s extremely common to move the thermostat higher than normal.

If your home is located somewhere a little cooler, you can set the temperature as high as 88 degrees while no one is home before lowering 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

For a full night’s rest during summer weather, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A great place to start 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.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and home environment. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when no one is around. With models like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Florissant and St. Charles home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. With greater energy efficiency, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Florissant and St. Charles is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like B & B Heating & Cooling who can set you up for success.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Florissant and St. Charles can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of 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.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, lowering total energy use and eventually the total monthly bill.
  • 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 old and less effective, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and result in breakdowns.
  • Check if you have enough insulation in the attic: Insulation is one of the key components in 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 possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Check your ductwork: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can also lead to problems with your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances to get into the atmosphere of your home. Checking your ductwork for leaks and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Finding and sealing any remaining leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping helps keep things cooler during those hot summer days. You should also check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Making time to seal leaks now can help you save a lot over time.