Can programmable thermostats save energy? It’s a common question. The short answer is yes, they can. According to ENERGY STAR, the average homeowner can save around $180 per year with a programmable thermostat. Read on to learn more from Tim Kyle Electric, electrician in Cockeysville, MD.
Programmable Thermostats
You should choose a thermostat that is compatible with your system and has the right type of scheduling options that meet your needs. For example, do you need multiple schedules, or do you only need a couple of them? When you install your thermostat, choose a location on an interior wall, away from drafts, vents, doors, and windows. Make sure your thermostat is easy to reach and not blocked by any furniture. If you decide to do the installation yourself, make sure your system is turned off along with the circuit breaker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the installation. If you don’t feel you’re up to doing the installation yourself, contact a professional to do the installation for you.
Once the thermostat is installed, program it to conform to your family’s schedule, not the factory default settings. Set for the times you’re at home, asleep, when you go to or come home from work. If you work from home, you should set it to what hours you’re working. It’ll take a few days and some adjustments to synchronize to your schedule. Ultimately you will want to:
- Use the energy saving extended time settings and set points for when you’re out for the day, at work, traveling, or sleeping.
- Avoid temperature swings and constantly changing temperatures.
- Override the pre-programmed temperature settings or you’ll end up using more energy.
- Adjust your thermostat to lower the heat or air conditioning 60 minutes before you go to bed and 30 minutes before you wake up.
- Set your vacation or hold settings at a constant, efficient temperature if you’re going to be away for more than two days.
- Change your batteries annually to avoid any interruptions in your thermostat’s programming.
If you have a heat pump, electric heat, radiant floor heating, or steam heat, a programmable thermostat may not be suitable for your system. Check with your HVAC contractor.
Need an Electrician in Cockeysville?
If you need an electrician in the Cockeysville area, contact Tim Kyle Electric. Our residential electrical services will take all of the stress out of powering your home. Let our experts work with you on any project and we guarantee that you’ll be satisfied with the process from start to finish!