It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it just so happens 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. 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 have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

Whenever you're at home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. For the most part, you probably have your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures for when you're in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you'll avoid the worst of summer while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Out of the House

If you're setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, 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 temperature as high as 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 system isn't working around the clock to keep an empty house cool.

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:

• Put in a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and home environment. It'll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when the house is empty. 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. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] 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. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] 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 [targetlocation] 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 run more efficiently. More efficient operation reduces strain on key parts 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 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.
• Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside during 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.
• Inspect 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 throughout your home. Watching for signs of leaks 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 can help keep it 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 run.