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 using automatic schedules, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.

By trying a few of these schedules, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

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

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you'll avoid the worst of summer while still keeping your energy bills low.

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 lowering 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 provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Asleep

For a full night's rest during summer weather, 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 when you are trying to get some rest.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to warm up when no one is around. With reliable brands 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 Heflin home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures no matter where you are.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. With greater energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Heflin is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Heflin can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of 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.. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce 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 improving airflow. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, an AC unit has to work harder, and the strain can reduce 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, securing 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 install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Check your ventilation: A leak in the air ducts could increase 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. Watching for signs of 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 can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. You should also 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 over time.