We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to keep costs down, even when you're out of the house.

It starts with your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.

With a few simple adjustments, you'll be able to enjoy comfortable temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:

While at Home

When you’re home, you want comfortable temperatures. 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 ideal temperature for when you're in your home during the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you'll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Gone

When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, it's extremely common to move 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 thermostat to temperatures as high as 88 degrees while no one is home before lowering 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 keep an empty house cool.

While Sleeping

When it comes to sleeping in the summer, you want a nice cool 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.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy:

• Put in a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs since it can plan your temperature adjustments according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. 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 [siteinfo field="msa"] 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, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is a breeze for experienced professionals like [siteinfo field="name"]
• Keep up with AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in [targetlocation] can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. With regular cleaning of the coils, checking for damage and keeping vents clear of dust and debris, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. More efficient operation reduces 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: 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 become clogged, air conditioners have to work harder, and the strain can reduce the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
• Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) suggests that homeowners living in southern climates should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
• Inspect your ventilation: A leak in the air ducts could increase 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. Watching for signs of leaks and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
• Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing up other leaks in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping can help keep it cooler on hot summer days. It’s also important 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.