People can reduce energy costs in many ways, from adding insulation and sealing ducts to regularly replacing air filters. Many people also use a programmable home thermostat to try to minimize their heating and cooling costs. This device allows homeowners to better manage and control their heating and cooling system, adjusting it to better match their daily needs. However, researchers show that when programmable thermostats are used improperly, they can actually cost more of your energy dollars. This is why it’s so important to use them correctly.
Avoid Overriding
Programmable thermostats work best when you leave them alone, with whatever schedule you’ve set for them. It’s important to keep this in mind if you want to get the most out of your thermostat.
- Try to avoid overriding the program settings too often. Pick a daily and weekly program and stick with it.
- Don’t try to rapidly get your home hot or cooler by pushing the settings to the max. Your home will not reach the temperature you’re aiming at any more quickly, but you will waste money
When You’re Away or Asleep
Minimize your HVAC system’s workload by using energy-saving setbacks when you’re away at work or school or asleep at night. Consistently setting lower (or higher, depending on the season) temperatures when you’re not at home can accumulate long-term energy savings. Make sure you use the setbacks for at least eight-hour blocks of time for maximum effect.
Positioning
A poor location when installing your programmable thermostat can have a significant impact on your energy usage. You can get inaccurate readings, which will in turn cause the system to operate inefficiently. Don’t install your programmable thermostat in drafty areas or direct sunlight. Positions near skylights, windows or doors are all poor spots.
A programmable thermostat can save you money if you use it correctly. Please contact us at LBA Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing for experienced service in all home systems for your Kansas City area home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Kansas City, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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