The Best Way to Use Programmable Thermostats and Keep Utility Bills Down
Programmable thermostats are designed to change home temperatures at different times of the day and night. In this way, you can automatically enjoy comfortable temperatures while at home and save energy while you’re away or sleeping. Use these helpful operating and installation tips to get the most out of your device.
Installation
Thermostat readings may be influenced by the installation location in the home. Install the thermostat on an interior wall away from direct sunlight. Make sure supply outlets are several feet away. You should also avoid installing the thermostat near an exterior access door, including to the garage.
If you use a heat pump for home heating and cooling, make sure the thermostat you install is heat-pump compatible with an intelligent recovery function. This function heats the home to temperature incrementally so that the backup electric resistance heating elements aren’t activated.
Energy-Saving Settings
You can adjust the programmable thermostat to switch to energy-saving settings when you leave for the day and when you go to sleep at night. Set the temperature 7 to 12 degrees up/down from your normal comfort temperature for energy savings throughout the year.
Comfort Settings
Decide upon reasonable comfort temperatures for your household so you avoid using the “hold” feature to manually override programs. Energy Star suggests 78 degrees for the cooling months and 68 degrees for the heating months. However, there are other indoor environmental factors that affect comfort, such as ventilation and indoor humidity, that are specific to your home. Whichever temperature settings you choose, the key to successfully enjoying home comfort and energy savings is consistency.
Smart Features
More advanced programmable thermostats, or smart thermostats, offer advanced features, such as remote access from your smartphone or work computer, communication with utilities for energy prices and link multiple home-comfort systems together for total home comfort control. Work with your HVAC professional for best results.
For more information bout programmable thermostats, or if you would like more information about purchasing the right device for your home, contact Air Experts today.
