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

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

With a few simple adjustments, 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 comfortable temperatures. That’s why it’s best to set 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 usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Away

If you’re setting the temperature for whenever you’re gone, 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 temperatures 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 system isn’t working around the clock to cool an empty house.

While Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold while you’re trying to sleep.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Smart thermostat installation: 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 home environment. It’ll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get warmer when no one is home. With reliable brands like 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 Holdrege home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. 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 Holdrege 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 Holdrege 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 perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, lowering total energy use and eventually the total monthly bill.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters become clogged, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, securing 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 possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Check 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. 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 can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. You should also check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Devoting time and effort to sealing leaks now can help you save a lot over time.