It's always nice when we manage to save money on our utility bills, but it just so happens there’s a way to keep costs down, even when you're out of the house.
It starts with your thermostat. By using automatic schedules, you can tailor the temperature to your needs. You can create a number of automated 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 keeping more money in your pocket. Check out our guide on how your thermostat can be a source of energy savings:
While at Home
When you’re home, you want comfortable 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 most energy-efficient temperatures for the summer is usually between 78 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting things a few degrees, you can stay cool while keeping your energy bill more manageable.
While Gone
When it comes to setting the temperature for when you are out of the house in summer, the majority of homeowners will set the thermostat higher than normal.
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 Sleeping
For a full night's rest during summer weather, you want a temperature that's nice and cool. You should try and keep things between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep you from getting too hot or too cold at some point overnight.
Other Strategies for Lowering Energy Use:
- Install a smart thermostat: Trying a smart thermostat in the summer can lower energy costs as it forms temperature schedules according to your lifestyle and idea of what comfortable is. It'll take care of making changes while you are home or sleeping, while allowing it to get warmer when the house is empty. Using reputed brands and models such as the Lennox iComfort, you are able to adjust settings and schedules through your smartphone, tablet or laptop. Requesting smart thermostat installation in your Delray Beach home can be the simplest strategy for maintaining comfortable, yet energy-efficient temperatures even when you aren’t home.
- Upgrade your HVAC system: A new HVAC system saves money right from the start. If a system boasts high energy efficiency, your utility bills will be lower because it requires less energy to heat and cool your home. Air conditioning installation in Delray Beach is only a phone call away, so don't hesitate to reach out to local pros like Kilbourne Heating & AC who can set you up for success.
- Keep up with AC maintenance: Whether or not you keep up with regular air conditioning maintenance in Delray Beach 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, you may notice your HVAC system run more efficiently. Higher energy efficiency will also reduce strain on key parts 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 keeping airflow as smooth and consistent as possible. When filters are clogged with dirt and debris, air conditioners have to work harder, and the added strain may impact the system’s life span and cause breakdowns.
- Verify your attic has enough insulation: Insulation is a crucial component for any energy-efficient home, keeping the hot air outside and the cool air inside over the summer. The North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) offers an official recommendation stating homeowners in souther states should possess at least 13-14 inches of insulation, while states further north need 16-18 inches.
- Inspect 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 throughout your home. Finding any leaks fast and sealing them can fix both of those problems.
- Seal all other leaky spots in your home: Sealing leaky spots in your home with caulk, foam sealant or weather-stripping keeps temperatures a little cooler on hot summer days. It’s also important to check for any gaps around windows, doors and even outdoor fixtures. Taking the time to seal up any leaks now can help you save a lot in the long term.