In the last few years, smart thermostats have become massively popular. These devices are more accurate and energy-efficient than traditional thermostats, and they allow you to adjust your home's temperature from anywhere.

Like with any new technology, it takes some time to figure out how to optimize your smart thermostat for the best results. There are lots of tips and tricks you can try to make your thermostat and air conditioner as effective as possible. Here are six ways you can make the most of your smart thermostat:

1. Carefully Choose Placement

The placement of your thermostat can have a major impact on its effectiveness. Your thermostat needs to be able to get a clear reading of your home's temperature. Install it in a location that does not receive direct sunlight and keep it away from temperature fluctuations resulting from drafts or heat sources. The ideal placement is an interior wall in the center of your home.

2. Keep the AC Unit Clean

Even the most advanced smart thermostats won't work efficiently if the AC unit is dirty. At the start of summer, you should schedule a tune-up, during which an HVAC technician will inspect and clean your air conditioner to keep it in good working condition.

Clear away any leaves, trash, or debris from around the outside condenser, making sure it's surrounded by at least two feet of open space. Clean any dirt and dust that has accumulated on the coils, which can affect your AC's airflow. Also, change the filter once a month to allow as much cool and clean air into your home as possible.

3. Optimize for Your Schedule

When programming your thermostat, carefully consider your and your family's schedule. Think about what time you usually leave and come home during the week as well as how much time you spend at home during the weekend.

However, avoid drastically changing your home's temperature while you're away. If you allow your home to get too hot when you're at work, your air conditioner will use up a lot of energy trying to cool it down again when you get home. Adjusting the temperature by just a few degrees can save energy without requiring your AC to overcompensate.

4. Take Advantage of Apps and Voice Controls

Voice control is the easiest way to adjust your smart thermostat. Many smart thermostats are compatible with either Google Home or Amazon Echo, so if you have one of these devices, you can adjust your home's temperature using only your voice.

If you don't have a voice control device, you can still easily adjust the thermostat from your smartphone. Your smart thermostat app allows you to control the thermostat even when you're away from home. If your schedule unexpectedly changes, you can use your phone to turn your AC on earlier or later than planned.

5. Use Occupancy Detection

Occupancy detection is one of the best features of a smart thermostat. It can use motion sensors to detect when someone is home so that it doesn't waste energy when the house is unoccupied. Some thermostats have an on-board sensor, and others use sensors that are placed around the home. The occupancy detection feature works best when the sensors are located in the highest-traffic areas.

6. Don't Cool Every Room

Smart thermostats have a zoning feature, which allows you to control the heating and cooling of individual rooms in your home (provided your HVAC system is zoned). Consider your daily routine when programming your smart thermostat. During the afternoon, you may want your living room or kitchen to cool down, but you may only need your bedroom to stay cool through the night. If you have a guest bedroom or other room that isn't frequently used, you can relax the settings on your thermostat to save energy.

Bottom line: A smart thermostat is a great way to carefully control your home's temperature. You can make sure you're getting the most out of it by customizing the programming to match your schedule and routine. If your AC unit is in good working condition and you've optimized your smart thermostat, you can save on your energy bill while enjoying comfortable temperatures in your home. For all of your cooling needs this summer, rely on Kern Heating & Cooling Co.. To schedule your appointment, call (847) 383-0350.