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

It starts with your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

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 doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you're home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. It's only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to appreciate the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for when you're in your home during the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Out of the House

If you're setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher than normal.

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 once you're home again. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to cool an empty house.

While Sleeping

For a full night's rest during summer weather, 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.

Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Trying 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 get a little warmer when no one is around. With reliable brands like 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 Greater Richmond home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures no matter where you are.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: A new HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. 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 Greater Richmond is only a phone call away, so don't hesitate to reach out to local pros like Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling who can set you up for success.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Greater Richmond can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. If you stay on top of cleaning key components like the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on the unit 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 improving airflow. 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 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 during the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) recommends that homes in the southern United States should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ventilation: Leaky ductwork can raise 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. 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 helps keep things cooler during those hot summer days. Don't forget to 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.