Programmable Thermostats Save Money

According to Energy Star, the average household spends about $2,000 annually on utility bills.  Almost half of this amount comes from heating and cooling your home.  Installing a programmable thermostat is an inexpensive and simple way to save money on your heating and cooling expense.  On average a properly installed programmable thermostat can save you $180 per year.

The key to a programmable thermostat is to maintain specific temperature settings according to your family’s schedule that allow for savings without sacrificing comfort.  A heating and cooling specialist can help you establish a program that automatically reduces heating and cooling in your home when you are not at home and do not need as much heating or cooling.  Example schedules include:

7 day - provides a schedule that is similar every day of the week

5+2 day - provides a setting for weekdays and another for weekends

5-1-1 day - one schedule for weekdays, and one for Saturdays and Sundays

These automatic settings not only help eliminate unneccessary heating and cooling, but are also very convenient.  Imagine your home’s temperature automatically adjusting to your liking before you go to bed at night and then again before you return home from school or work.  When you are away, the temperature will adjust to reduce the amount of heating or cooling to save energy.  A couple of things to remember:

1. Properly setting your thermostat is the key to energy savings - programmable thermostats have many complex settings and features, maximize its potential by allowing  a professional to set your thermostat properly.
2. Make sure your thermostat is installed properly by a professional to ensure accurate settings and saving potential - when installing a programmable thermostat, there are proper guidelines to consider for safety and proper operation.  It is best to contact an HVAC professional to install your thermostat.
3. Choose the right thermostat for you and your family - there are many types of programmable thermostats, talk to your heating and cooling professional for advice on which model is for you.