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

The key is your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.

By trying a few of these schedules, 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

Pretty much whenever you're home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer while inside 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. By adjusting things a few degrees, you'll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Out of the House

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it’s advantageous to 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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to keep an empty house cool.

While Asleep

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want a nice cool temperature. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There's less risk of getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. They can lower the temperature while 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 Columbia 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: Upgrading your HVAC system can save money in the long run. With greater energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Columbia is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Columbia 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 clearing ventilation of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. 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: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters become clogged, an AC unit has to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Check your attic insulation: 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) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ductwork: Leaky ductwork can raise your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can affect equipment such as your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances to get into the atmosphere of your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can help with both these issues.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Finding and sealing any remaining leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping helps keep things cooler during those hot summer days. It’s also important to 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 in the long run.