On the surface, the thermostat in your Clyde, NC, home may seem simple. However, there are plenty of mistakes you can make with it that affect your comfort and operating costs. Here are four common thermostat mistakes to try and avoid.
Turning Up the Thermostat to Speed Up Heating
It’s a common misconception that heating systems warm rooms faster when you raise the thermostat. Unfortunately, that’s not true, and turning it up won’t speed up the heating process. To avoid wasting energy, set your thermostat to the desired temperature and wait.
Turning Off Your HVAC System While Away
Many people believe that leaving their HVAC systems on while they go out, is a waste of money. However, it takes far less energy to maintain your home’s temperature than to raise or lower it. So, if you plan to be away from home for a while, consider lowering the thermostat a bit instead.
Not Using a Programmable Thermostat
If you’ve got an old thermostat that won’t let you set heating and cooling schedules, it’s time to evaluate whether an upgrade is necessary. A programmable thermostat lets your HVAC system work as efficiently as possible to meet your comfort needs. Plus, it can learn from your behavior and make changes as necessary.
Setting Your Thermostat Too Low or High
Although it’s tempting to try maintaining the perfect indoor temperature, it’s an unrealistic goal. During the cooler months, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day. In the summer, you should aim for a temperature of 78 degrees, using fans to improve your comfort.
The worst thing you can do with your thermostat or HVAC system is neglecting it. The best way to keep everything working well is to commit to regular HVAC maintenance each year. Call Gentry Service Group today and ask about our maintenance plans right away!
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