We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but you should know there’s a way to keep costs down, even when you're out of the house.

The key is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re asleep.

With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

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 inside to make the most of the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for when you're in your home during the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you'll avoid the worst of summer while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Out of the House

When it comes to setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher than normal.

If your home is in a shady spot in a cooler climate, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 88 degrees while no one is home and then lower 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 cool an empty house.

While Sleeping

For a full night's rest during summer weather, you want a nice cool temperature. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Install 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 warm up when the house is empty. With reliable brands like 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 Magnolia home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature whether you're at home or across the country.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system saves money right from the start. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Magnolia is a breeze for experienced professionals like JTech Mechanical.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Magnolia can have a significant impact on your utility bills. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters become clogged, an AC unit has to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Check if you have enough insulation in the attic: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your ductwork: 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. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can address both concerns.
  • 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.