Setting Your Thermostat to Save Money in Summer

It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you're not even home.

It starts with 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.

If you're willing to make these 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

When you’re home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer if you're indoors to appreciate the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures for the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

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.

If your home is located somewhere a little cooler, 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 when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to cool an empty house.

While Asleep

For a full night's rest during summer weather, 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 while you're trying to sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

• Put in a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and home environment. It'll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is home. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you have the ability to remotely access and change the temperature through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature whether you're at home or across the country.
• Update your existing HVAC system: A high-efficiency 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 achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is only a phone call away, so don't hesitate to reach out to local pros like [siteinfo field="name"] who can set you up for success
• Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in [targetlocation] can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. 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 improving airflow. When filters are old and less effective, an AC unit has to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
• Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside during the 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 those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
• Inspect your air ducts: A leak in the air ducts could increase 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 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. Taking the time to seal up any leaks now can help you save a lot in the long term.