Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you're not even home.

The secret is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, 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 sleeping.

By trying a few of these schedules, you have more time to enjoy pleasant 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

Whenever you're at home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. For the most part, you probably have your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to make the most of the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures for when you're in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Away

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 when you or a family member return. 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 while you're trying to sleep.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on 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 warmer when the house is empty. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your Huntsville home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system can save money in the long run. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, you can also count on lower utility bills since more efficient equipment requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Huntsville is only a phone call away, so don't hesitate to reach out to local pros like All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc who can set you up for success.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Huntsville can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. 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 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) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ventilation: 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 throughout your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing up other leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping can help keep it cooler on 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 in the long term.