It’s always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but you should know there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you’re not even home.

It starts with your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. This means establishing various 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. Here are some ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

Whenever you’re at 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 most energy-efficient temperatures for the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you’ll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Away

If you’re setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it’s extremely common to move the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.

Depending on the local climate or your home’s location, 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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime to provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping in 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 at some point overnight.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and home environment. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when no one is around. With models like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your West Jefferson home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in West Jefferson is a breeze for experienced professionals like West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc..
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in West Jefferson can have a significant impact on your utility bills. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • 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 are clogged with dirt and debris, an AC unit has to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside over 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 air ducts: Leaky ductwork can raise 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 address both concerns.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Finding and sealing any remaining 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 over time.