It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.
The key is your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, 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 asleep.
If you're willing to make these adjustments, you can enjoy comfy 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. For the most part, you probably have 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 usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you'll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.
While Gone
When it comes to setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, it’s advantageous to 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 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 Sleeping
When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want a nice cool temperature. You should try and keep things 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:
- Smart thermostat installation: Switching to 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 personal preferences. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get a little warmer when the house is empty. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your Moline home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
- Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. With greater 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 Moline is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
- Keep up with AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Moline can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. 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.. More efficient operation reduces strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
- 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 are clogged with dirt and debris, air conditioners have 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, keeping 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 possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
- Check your air ducts: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can also lead to problems with your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances throughout your home. Checking your ductwork for leaks 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 keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. It 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.