It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but you should know there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

The key is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. This means establishing various 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 also keeping more of your money. Here are some ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you're home, you want comfortable temperatures. For the most part, you probably have your thermostat lower in the summer if you're indoors to make the most of the cool air.

But the ideal temperature 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 can stay cool while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Gone

If you're 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.

For some homes, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 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 system isn't working around the clock to provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Asleep

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable 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 Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is home. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Phoenix home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures no matter where you are.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: Upgrading your HVAC system saves money right from the start. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, you can also count on lower utility bills since more efficient equipment requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Phoenix is a breeze for experienced professionals like Integrity AC & Heating LLC.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Phoenix can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning 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: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by improving airflow. When filters become clogged, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside over the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ventilation: 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 to get into the atmosphere of your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can address both concerns.
  • 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.