Everyone’s always looking to save money on their utility bills, but it turns out there’s a way to lower energy use, even when you're not even home.
The key is your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, you can structure its daily schedule around your personal preferences. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re home, away or even when you’re asleep.
By trying a few of these schedules, you have more time to enjoy pleasant temperatures while also keeping more of your money. Here are some ways your thermostat doesn't have to use up all your summer spending money:
While at Home
Pretty much whenever you're home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. 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 in terms of energy efficiency, the best range for the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, you'll keep cool while still lowering your monthly energy bill.
While Out of the House
If you're setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.
For some homes, you can set the thermostat to higher temperatures like 88 degrees while no one is home and then lower it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees once you're home again. This way, your air conditioning system isn't working around the clock to keep an empty house cool.
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 when you are trying to get some rest.
Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:
- Put in a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs by automatically adjusting 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 the house is empty. 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 Albuquerque home is an effortless way to set the correct temperature no matter where you are.
- Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system can save money in the long run. By investing in a more energy-efficient system, you can also count on lower utility bills since more efficient equipment requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in Albuquerque 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: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Albuquerque can have a serious effect on your total monthly energy use. By regularly cleaning the coils, checking for damage and clearing ventilation of dust and debris, this can help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce strain on the unit 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 are clogged with dirt and debris, your air conditioner will have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
- Confirm your attic is sufficiently insulated: Insulation is a crucial component for any 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 those in northern U.S. states should have 16-18 inches.
- Review your air ducts: 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 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 helps keep things cooler during those hot summer days. You should also 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 over time.