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 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.

With a few simple adjustments, 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

When you’re home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. It’s only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Out of the House

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

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 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 keep an empty house cool.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night’s sleep during the summer, you want a temperature that’s nice and cool. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There’s less risk of getting too hot or too cold at some point overnight.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when the house is empty. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Norton 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 is another great option for long-term energy savings. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Norton is a breeze for experienced professionals like HCE Systems.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Norton can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • 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 helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are old and less effective, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten 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 through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your air ducts: A leak in the air ducts could increase 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. 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 helps keep things cooler during those hot summer days. Don’t forget 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 run.