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.

The secret is your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. You can create a number of automated temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re asleep.

By trying a few of these schedules, 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

Whenever you're at home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. It's only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you can stay cool while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Away

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

Depending on the local climate or your home's location, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 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 unit won’t be working overtime to keep an empty house cool.

While Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. You won't have to worry about getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Put in a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and personal preferences. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is around. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Kankakee home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures even when you aren’t home.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: Upgrading your 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 reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Kankakee is a breeze for experienced professionals like Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Kankakee 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 keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: 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 the added strain may impact 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 during 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.
  • Check your ductwork: Leaky ductwork can raise your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can potentially allow harmful emissions from 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 help with both these issues.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing leaky spots 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 term.