We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you’re not even home.

It starts with 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.

With a few simple adjustments, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Here are some ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want comfortable temperatures. It’s only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer if you’re indoors to appreciate the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures 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 keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Out of the House

If you’re setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, the majority of homeowners will set 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 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 provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Asleep

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want a nice cool temperature. A good rule of thumb 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:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Trying 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 home environment. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is around. With models 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 Mission Viejo home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature even when you aren’t home.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system saves money right from the start. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, lower utility bills won’t be far behind since it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Mission Viejo is a breeze for experienced professionals like 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Mission Viejo can have a significant impact on your utility bills. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on key parts 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 helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and cause 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) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 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 to get into the atmosphere of your home. Checking your ductwork for leaks and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Finding and sealing any remaining leaks 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. Making time to seal leaks now can help you save a lot in the long run.