Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but you should know there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

The key 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.

With a few simple adjustments, you'll be able to enjoy comfortable temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Check out our guide on how your thermostat doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:

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 you are in the house to appreciate the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for when you're in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you'll keep cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Gone

When it comes to setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher for while they're gone.

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 after you return. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to keep an empty house cool.

While Asleep

To enjoy a good night's sleep during 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 Ways to Use Less Energy:

  • Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. It'll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is around. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your South Beloit and Belvidere home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures even when you aren’t home.
  • Upgrade your HVAC system: A new 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 reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in South Beloit and Belvidere is a great way to beat the heat in the summer.
  • Keep up with AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in South Beloit and Belvidere can have a serious effect on your total 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 perform better during day-to-day use.. More efficient operation reduces strain on the unit 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 helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters become clogged, an AC unit has to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and result in breakdowns.
  • Check if you have enough insulation in the attic: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, keeping 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 states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your ductwork: 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 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: Finding and sealing any remaining leaks 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. Taking the time to seal up any leaks now can help you save a lot in the long run.