Setting Your Thermostat to Save Money in Summer

Everyone’s always looking to save money on their 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 learning more about its special features and settings, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re asleep.

If you’re willing to make these adjustments, you’ll be able to enjoy comfortable temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Check out our guide on how your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

Whenever you’re at home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. That’s why it’s best to set 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. With this adjustment, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Away

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.

Depending on the local climate or your home’s location, 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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime to cool an empty house.

While Sleeping

To enjoy a good night’s sleep during 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:

• Smart thermostat installation: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules 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. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Des Moines home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures no matter where you are.
• Upgrade your HVAC system: Upgrading your 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 reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Des Moines is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to reach out to local pros like Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling who can set you up for success.
• Schedule annual AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Des Moines can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of 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, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
• Replace your air filter regularly: Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters become clogged, air conditioners have to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
• Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: 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) recommends that homes in the southern United States should install at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
• Check your ductwork: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can potentially allow harmful emissions from your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances throughout your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can address both concerns.
• Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing leaky spots in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping can help keep it 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 in the long run.