We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

The secret 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 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 keeping more money in your pocket. Check out our guide on how your thermostat doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

Whenever you're at home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. 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 the most energy-efficient temperatures for the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you'll keep cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Gone

When setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher for while they're gone.

Depending on the local climate or your home's location, you can set the thermostat to temperatures as high as 88 degrees while no one is home before you adjust 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 provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night's sleep during the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and home environment. 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 models like the Lennox iComfort, you have the ability to remotely access and change the temperature through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your Michigan City home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you're at home or across the country.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system saves money right from the start. With greater energy efficiency, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Michigan City is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Michigan City can have a significant impact on your utility bills. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, lowering total energy use and eventually the total monthly bill.
  • 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 become clogged, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
  • Check if you have enough insulation in the attic: 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) recommends that homes in the southern United States should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your ventilation: 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 fix both of those problems.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing leaky spots in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping keeps temperatures a little cooler on 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 term.