It’s always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to keep costs down, even when you’re out of the house.

The key is your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.

With a few simple adjustments, 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

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 you are in the house to make the most of the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for when you’re in your home during the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Gone

When setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher for while they’re gone.

Depending on the local climate or your home’s location, you can set the temperature as high as 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 cool an empty house.

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. You won’t have to worry about getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on 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, before allowing it to warm up when the house is empty. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Chadron home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures no matter where you are.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: A new HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. 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 Chadron is a breeze for experienced professionals like MPC Heating & Cooling.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Chadron can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by improving airflow. When filters become clogged, 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 one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, securing 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.
  • Review your ductwork: A leak in the air ducts could increase 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. Checking your ductwork for 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 keeps temperatures a little 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 run.