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 making the most out of your thermostat, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. 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 can enjoy comfy temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Check out our guide on how your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

Pretty much whenever you’re home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to make the most of the cool air.

But the most energy-efficient temperatures for when you’re in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you’ll avoid the worst of summer while still keeping your energy bills low.

While Out of the House

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

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 when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime to provide cooling for a bunch of empty rooms.

While Sleeping

For a full night’s rest during summer weather, you want a nice cool 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.

Additional Ways to Reduce 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 home environment. It’ll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, before allowing it to get a little warmer when no one is around. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Wausau home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you’re at home or across the country.
  • Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: A new HVAC system is another great option for long-term energy savings. With greater energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Wausau 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 Wausau can have a significant impact on your utility bills. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
  • Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters become clogged, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and lead to 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 states further north need 16-18 inches.
  • Inspect your air ducts: 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. Watching for signs of leaks and sealing them can address both concerns.
  • Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Finding and sealing any remaining 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. Making time to seal leaks now can help you save a lot over time.