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 key is your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. This means establishing various temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re asleep.
If you're willing to make these adjustments, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Here are some ways your thermostat can save you money in the summer:
While at Home
Pretty much whenever you're home, you want comfortable temperatures. For the most part, you probably have 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 the summer is actually around 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you'll keep cool while still keeping your energy bills low.
While Gone
When setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it's extremely common to move the thermostat higher than normal.
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 lowering it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees after you return. This way, your air conditioning won't have to work constantly to keep an empty house cool.
While Sleeping
For a full night's rest during summer weather, you want your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. You won't have to worry about getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.
Other Ways to Use Less Energy:
- Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer helps save money on energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and personal preferences. A smart thermostat manages the temperature if you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to warm up 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 Ballwin and St. Charles home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures no matter where you are.
- Replace current equipment with a newer HVAC system: Upgrading your HVAC system saves money right from the start. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Ballwin and St. Charles is a breeze for experienced professionals like Air Alliance Team.
- Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Ballwin and St. Charles 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. Increasing efficiency also limits strain on important or delicate components and lowers operational costs, lowering total energy use and eventually the total monthly bill.
- Replace your air filter regularly: Cleaning or replacing the air filter regularly saves money by keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, an AC unit has to work harder, and this greater strain could shorten the system’s life span and lead to breakdowns.
- Check your attic insulation: Insulation is a vital part of maintaining an energy-efficient home, securing 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 have at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while colder climates do better with 16-18 inches.
- Check your ventilation: Damage to the ventilation is capable of increasing your energy bills much more than 20 percent, plus it can also lead to problems with your water heater, clothes dryer and other appliances to get into the atmosphere of your home. Checking your ductwork for leaks and sealing them can help with both these issues.
- Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing up other 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.