We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to keep costs down, even when you’re out of the house.

It starts with your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. 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 can enjoy comfy temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you’re home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. For the most part, you probably have your thermostat lower in the summer if you’re indoors to appreciate the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for when you’re in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Out of the House

If you’re setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, the majority of homeowners will 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 before lowering it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning system isn’t working around the clock to cool an empty house.

While Sleeping

To enjoy a good night’s sleep during the summer, you want a nice cool temperature. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. They can lower the temperature while 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 have the ability to remotely access and change the temperature through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your Marshfield 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 high-efficiency 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 achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Marshfield is a breeze for experienced professionals like House of Heating Incorporated.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Marshfield 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, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. More efficient operation reduces strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, lowering total energy use and eventually the total monthly bill.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: A regular schedule for cleaning or replacing the HVAC system’s air filter saves money by improving airflow. When filters are old and less effective, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside during the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your ductwork: 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. Checking your ductwork for leaks and sealing them can help with both these issues.
  • 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. 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.