Everyone looks for ways to save money, and a programmable thermostat is a hassle-free way for Fairview, NC residents to save on energy costs every year. Yet, in a 2011 study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, nearly 90 percent of respondents rarely or never programmed their thermostats. The study revealed that most persons did not know how to correctly use these thermostats. Learning about the latest advancements in programmable thermostats, and how to use them can help you to be more energy efficient and save on energy costs.
Types of Programmable Thermostats
A 7-day programmable thermostat lets you set a different cooling or heating schedule every day of the week. For people with a more traditional schedule, a 5-1-1 programmable thermostat lets you set one heating and cooling schedule for Monday through Friday and a different schedule for Saturday and Sunday.
Another option is the 5-2 thermostat. Similar to the 5-1-1 programmable thermostat, the 5-2 thermostat allows you to set one schedule for Monday through Friday, however Saturday and Sunday share the same heating or cooling schedule. The one-week programmable thermostat allows you to set one heating and cooling schedule that is repeated every day for the entire week.
Apart from conveniently heating and cooling your home, another great advantage of these thermostats is their affordability. You will be able to find a selection of thermostats under one hundred dollars.
Programming Option Times
For effective operation you will need to adjust the thermostat based on your household’s schedule. Programming will take into consideration your daily wake, leave, return, and sleep times. To get the most out of your thermostat and keep your house comfortable you should program settings based on these times, and so that temperatures in your home will always be comfortable.
Saving You Money in the Winter and Summer Months
During the colder months, when you are home and awake, you should set your programmable thermostat to 68 degrees. Then, when you are either out of the house or asleep, you should lower the set temperature by 10 to 15 degrees. During the summer, your thermostat should be set to at least 78 degrees except for when you are sleeping or away, when it can be set a bit higher.
Your air conditioner should be shut off when you are away for extended periods. When temperatures outside are comfortable, especially during the periods in between seasons, it is a good idea to resist using the HVAC system as much as possible, to realize even more savings.
Capabilities
Programmable thermostats have many features designed to make HVAC management and home comfort more simple:
- Users are able to view detailed usage reports, and are able to compare energy consumption over time.
- Vacation programming enables you to manage the system when you are away for longer periods, and program it so temperatures in the house are just right when you return.
- Modern thermostats are designed to provide reminders for routine maintenance from your HVAC tech or reminders for simple maintenance tasks that you can undertake such as changing or cleaning your air filter.
- Smart thermostats that are WiFi-enabled, allow you to make updates or system checks using your Apple® and Android™ smartphones or tablet, remotely. Some thermostats can even “learn” habits and respond accordingly.
- Sensors that can automatically adjust to changing schedules will get the system going, for example, if you return home earlier than planned.
- Mobile apps thermostat apps also allow you to view various reports of heating and cooling costs so that you can compare your usage over different periods. This will help users to better understand how their behaviors affect consumption, and therefore how they can make adjustments for even more energy savings. Homeowners also have access to expert suggestions and tips on using the thermostat. Mobile apps also provide a timely updates on a variety of useful information including the humidity, temperature, and thermostat settings inside the house.
Gentry Service Group is an authorized dealer of Carrier products, including the new Côr™ programmable thermostat. If you are interested in learning more about the latest advancements in programmable thermostat technology, contact us at (828) 581-4045. Our NATE-certified technicians are experienced in the installation and servicing of various types of thermostats and HVAC systems. Give us a call today!
Image provided by Shutterstock
