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 learning more about its special features and settings, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. This means establishing various temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

If you’re willing to make these adjustments, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Take a look at a few 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 in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you’ll keep cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Away

If you’re setting the temperature for whenever you’re gone, it’s extremely common to move the thermostat higher for while they’re gone.

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 when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning won’t have to work constantly to cool an empty house.

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. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold at some point overnight.

Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get warmer when the house is empty. 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 Mount Pleasant home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
  • Update your existing 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 achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Mount Pleasant is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like Olde Towne Heating & Air who can set you up for success.
  • Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Mount Pleasant can have a big impact on your monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing air vents of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Replace your air filter regularly: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by improving airflow. When filters become clogged, an AC unit has to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
  • Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther 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 affect equipment such as 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 keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. Don’t forget to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Taking the time to seal up any leaks now can help you save a lot over time.