Why switch to a programmable unit?
One of the easiest ways to save money on your home heating and cooling bill is with a programmable thermostat. In fact, they have nearly become the standard in most homes. If used efficiently, a programmable thermostat can save you up to $200 per year.
What are the available options?
There are many different types of programmable thermostats, so it’s a good idea to find the one that most suits your lifestyle. Some allow you to choose options for weekdays versus weekends, others alert you when the filter needs to be replaced, and some are wi-fi enabled to allow customization from smartphones, tablets, or other devices. Most programmable thermostats on the market allow you to manually override the settings.
What should I consider when choosing a unit?
Decide how important the bells and whistles are. Many programmable thermostats have engaging, interactive displays that are actually fun to use. Considering Wi-Fi enabled systems, think about how convenient and efficient it would be to control your climate from your smartphone or tablet. For example, if you know you’re going to be home in an hour, you can change your thermostat setting before your return trip. You finish up work or errands, walk in the door, and your house is comfortable.
How can I get the most out of my programmable thermostat?
Now that you’ve chosen your thermostat, how can you get the most out of it? What are your priorities? For many people, it’s important to avoid throwing money out the window, and doing a good turn for the environment is a nice bonus. Start by taking a look at a typical day in your house to determine the best time to reduce your energy consumption. Typically, eight hours of lowering the heat or raising the temperature of the air conditioning by one degree can shave 1% off of your bill. It’s suggested that this occur at night when you are sleeping or during periods of the day that the home is unoccupied.
Once you know the schedule that will be ideal for you, your next step is to set the programming. Even if your technician set it up for you, take control of your schedule by familiarizing yourself with the unit. Think of it as setting an alarm clock, and find the location of your settings. Your thermostat will store your saved settings, and some even allow you to set different times for seven days of the week.
Notice the difference between your weekday and weekend consumption. Even if you choose a thermostat that does not allow that option, you can manually program the week and then change it on the weekend, changing it back the following week. This sounds complicated but it’s really easy!
Programmable thermostats are the way to go. Although they seem more expensive up front, programmable thermostats will save you money in the long run. The benefits? They save you money, optimize your energy usage, increase your home’s efficiency, and ensure that the climate in your home is consistent. Contact A-1 American for all your thermostat and air conditioning solutions.
A-1 American serves your Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We now offer financing as low as $99 per month. Call us today at 757-425-2400.