Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

It starts with your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re asleep.

By trying a few of these schedules, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want comfortable temperatures. 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 in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you’ll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Away

When it comes to setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.

If your home is in a shady spot in a cooler climate, 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 cool an empty house.

While Asleep

For a full night’s rest during summer weather, you want a nice cool temperature. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. You won’t have to worry about getting too hot or too cold at some point overnight.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. It’ll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to warm up when no one is around. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Moline 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 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 reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Moline is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like J.L. Brady Company LLC who can set you up for success.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Moline can have a significant impact on your utility bills. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: 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 the strain can reduce the system’s life span and lead to 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) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ductwork: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing 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. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can help with both these issues.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing leaky spots 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. Making time to seal leaks now can help you save a lot in the long run.