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.

The secret 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 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

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 when you’re in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you’ll keep cool while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Gone

When setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it’s advantageous to set 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 you adjust it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees once you’re home again. This way, your air conditioning won’t have to work constantly to keep an empty house cool.

While Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want a temperature that’s nice and cool. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold while you’re trying to sleep.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Smart thermostat installation: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when the house is empty. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your West Columbia home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: Upgrading your HVAC system can save money in the long run. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in West Columbia is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like Tri City Fuel & Heating who can set you up for success.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in West 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, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on the unit 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: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. 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 lead to breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: 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) 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.
  • Check your air ducts: 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. Checking your ductwork for leaks and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing up other leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. Don’t forget 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.