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 learning more about its special features and settings, 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 can enjoy comfy temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Here are some ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:
While at Home
Whenever you're at home, you want comfortable temperatures. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer if you're indoors to make the most of the cool air.
But in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you'll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.
While Out of the House
When setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, it’s advantageous to set the thermostat higher for while they're gone.
For some homes, you can set the thermostat to temperatures 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 system isn't working around the clock to keep an empty house cool.
While Sleeping
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. There's less risk of getting too hot or too cold when you are trying to get some rest.
Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:
- Install a smart thermostat: Switching to a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs by automatically adjusting to your lifestyle and personal preferences. They can lower the temperature while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up when no one is home. With reliable brands like the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Planning smart thermostat installation in your Mankato area home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures whether you're at home or across the country.
- Update your existing 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 achieve comfortable temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Mankato area is a breeze for experienced professionals.
- Keep up with AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform regular air conditioning maintenance in Mankato area 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 perform better during day-to-day use.. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on the unit and lowers operational costs, leading to lower energy usage, which translates into lower energy bills.
- Replace your air filter regularly: 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, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
- Check your attic insulation: Insulation is one of the key components in any energy-efficient home, securing the hot air outside and the cool air inside through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in southern states should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
- Inspect your ductwork: A leak in the air ducts could increase 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 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 keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. Don't forget to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Devoting time and effort to sealing leaks now can help you save a lot in the long term.