
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.
The secret is your thermostat. By learning more about its special features and settings, you can help the thermostat plan for your preferred temperatures. That means you can have different temperature settings for when you’re at home, away or even when you’re sleeping.
By trying a few of these schedules, you can enjoy comfy temperatures while cutting down your energy bills. Here are some ways your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:
While at Home
Pretty much whenever you're home, you want a nice range of pleasant temperatures. 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 usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With this adjustment, you'll avoid the worst of summer while still keeping your energy bills low.
While Away
If you're setting the temperature for a vacation or other trip away from the house, it's extremely common to move the thermostat higher than you would if you were in the house.
For some homes, you can set the thermostat to temperatures as high as 88 degrees while no one is home before you adjust it back to the sweet spot of 78-80 degrees when you or a family member return. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t be working overtime to keep an empty house cool.
While Asleep
To enjoy a good night's sleep during the summer, you want a temperature that's nice and cool. A good rule of thumb is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. There's less risk of getting too hot or too cold while you're trying to sleep.
Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:
- Put in a smart thermostat: Using a smart thermostat in the summer is an excellent way to reduce energy costs