We all like saving money on our monthly utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to do it when you aren’t even home.

It starts with your thermostat. By making the most out of your thermostat, 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 can enjoy comfy temperatures while keeping more money in your pocket. Take a look at a few ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:

While at Home

Whenever you're at home, you want to enjoy a comfortable temperature. That’s why it’s best to set your thermostat lower in the summer while inside to make the most of the cool air.

But the ideal temperature for when you're in your home during the summer is in fact anywhere between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you'll avoid the worst of summer while keeping your energy bill more manageable.

While Away

If you're setting the temperature for whenever you're gone, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher for while they're gone.

If your home is located somewhere a little cooler, 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 after you return. 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 your thermostat set at a comfortable temperature. A great place to start is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There's less risk of 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 as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and home environment. It'll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get warmer when no one is around. With models like the Lennox iComfort, you can adjust the temperature remotely through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Scheduling smart thermostat installation in your [siteinfo field="msa"] home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures even when you aren’t home.
• Update your existing HVAC system: A high-efficiency HVAC system saves money right from the start. With greater energy efficiency, lower utility bills won't be far behind since it requires less energy to reach your preferred temperatures. Air conditioning installation in [siteinfo field="msa"] is a great way to beat the heat in the summer
• Stay on top of routine AC maintenance: Hiring a skilled professional to perform 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.
• 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, 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, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside through summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) recommends that homes in the southern United States should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while those in northern U.S. states should have 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 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 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 over time.