Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you’re not even home.

The secret is your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

If you’re willing to make these adjustments, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Check out our guide on how your thermostat doesn’t have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer if you’re indoors to make the most of the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for when you’re in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you can stay cool while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Away

When setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher for while they’re gone.

Depending on the local climate or your home’s location, you can set the temperature 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 won’t have to work constantly to cool an empty house.

While Sleeping

To enjoy a good night’s sleep during the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A great place to start is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There’s less risk of getting too hot or too cold while you’re trying to sleep.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get warmer when no one is around. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your Omaha home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system can save money in the long run. With greater energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Omaha is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like The Frazier Company who can set you up for success.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Omaha can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like 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.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • 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 are clogged with dirt and debris, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten 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 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 colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ductwork: 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. Finding any leaks fast 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 can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. Don’t forget 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 over time.