We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but you should know 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 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 can save you money in the summer:
While at Home
Pretty much whenever you're home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. It's only natural to want your thermostat lower in the summer while you are in the house to appreciate the cool air.
But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for when you're in your home during the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you'll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.
While Gone
When setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher than normal.
For some homes, you can set the temperature as high as 88 degrees while no one is home before lowering it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees once you're home again. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime 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 great place to start is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.
Additional Ways to Reduce Energy Use:
- Smart thermostat installation: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and home environment. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when no one is around. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Long Island home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature whether you're at home or across the country.
- Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: Upgrading your HVAC system can save money in the long run. With greater energy efficiency, you can also count on lower utility bills since more efficient equipment requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Long Island is only a phone call away, so don't hesitate to reach out to local pros who can set you up for success.
- Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Investing in or ignoring regular air conditioning maintenance in Long Island 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, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on key parts and lowers operational costs, resulting in lower energy usage and subsequently, smaller bills.
- Clean or replace the air filter on a regular basis: A regular schedule for cleaning or replacing the HVAC system's air filter saves money by helping air flow efficiently through your air conditioner. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
- Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside over the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
- Review your ventilation: 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 throughout your home. Finding any leaks fast 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 helps keep things cooler during those 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 in the long run.