We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

It starts with your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

By trying a few of these schedules, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want comfortable temperatures. For the most part, you probably have 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 in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you can stay cool 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 advantageous to set the thermostat higher than normal.

If your home is in a shady spot in a cooler climate, 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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to keep an empty house cool.

While Sleeping

For a full night's rest during summer weather, you want a temperature that's nice and cool. 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 Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and home environment. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to warm up when no one is home. 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 Mobile 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. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Mobile is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Mobile can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and result in 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 through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) recommends that homes in the southern United States should install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 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. 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. You should also check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Making time to seal leaks now can help you save a lot in the long term.