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.

The secret is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. You can create a number of automated 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 be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

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

But the ideal temperature 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'll avoid the worst of summer while still lowering your monthly energy bill.

While Out of the House

If you're setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, it's extremely common to move the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.

If your home is located somewhere a little cooler, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 88 degrees while no one is home and then lower it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees after you return. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime to provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Asleep

For a full night's rest during summer weather, 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 Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and personal preferences. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get 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. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Brookfield home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures even when you aren’t home.
  • Update your existing HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system can save money in the long run. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Brookfield is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Schedule annual AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Brookfield 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, this can help your HVAC system perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by improving airflow. When filters are old and less effective, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: 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) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
  • Review your ductwork: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing 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. Checking your ductwork for leaks and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
  • 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. 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 over time.