We all like saving money on our monthly 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 making the most out of your thermostat, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. 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’ll be able to enjoy comfortable temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Check out our guide on how your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Whenever you’re at home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to appreciate the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for when you’re in your home during the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Gone

When setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it’s extremely common to move the thermostat higher for while they’re gone.

If your home is located somewhere a little cooler, 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 when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning won’t have to work constantly to keep an empty house cool.

While Asleep

For a full night’s rest during summer weather, you want a temperature that’s nice and cool. 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:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when no one is home. 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 Hasbrouck Heights 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, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Hasbrouck Heights is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like ACE Solutions who can set you up for success.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Hasbrouck Heights can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact 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 during the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Review your air ducts: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can affect equipment such as 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: 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. Devoting time and effort to sealing leaks now can help you save a lot in the long run.