Benefits of a Programmable Thermostat

In ”Ways to Save Energy in the Summer”, we talked about the benefits of regulating the temperature of your house during different times of the day. For example, letting your temperature run higher while you’re at work during the day will save energy and money. 

Studies have shown that by adjusting your thermostat for eight hours a day by seven to ten degrees Fahrenheit, you can save up to 10% on your energy bills. Since the average annual energy bill is about $2,000, that’s an annual savings of $200.

Types

Recommended Energy Efficient thermostats:

• 7-day models. Mass Save offers rebates for this model. These programmable thermostats offer the most flexibility, allowing you to adjust your temperature from day-to-day. They are best, of course, if your schedule usually changes on a daily basis.

• Wireless Enabled models. These programmable thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature in your home remotely from anywhere via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Many of them come with available rebates and incentives.

Installation & Maintenance

Installation and maintenance for an Energy Efficient thermostat is easy and straightforward.

• Be sure to install the thermostat away from heat sources: heating or cooling vents, direct sunlight, and heat-generating appliances.
• Check your thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly. If it requires batteries, change them regularly.

Uses & Tips

Most energy efficient thermostats only allow for four settings throughout the day. This lets you to set one temperature for the day (while you’re at work or home), one for night while you’re sleeping, and one for your waking hours in the morning and evening.

Although the thermostats allow for four temperature schedules, try to set the temperature periods for long periods of time: eight hours at night, eight hours during the day. This will help regulate the temperature.

When you go on vacation, set the thermostat at one constant temperature (every model should allow for this) to save on the energy required to raise or lower the temperature in the house.

Avoid overriding settings. These changes will cost you money as the system adjusts for your desired temperatures. Pick a schedule and stick to it.

Using an energy efficient thermostat is just one way to maximize your HVAC’s efficiency. To learn more to get out of your unit, read the articles, “How to Change Your HVAC Filter” and “7 Ways to Optimize Air Flow.”