The programmable thermostat has been a fantastic evolution in the way we can set the temperature in our homes. As with any advanced technology, there is usually a learning curve, and it can be easy to overlook certain features. Many people, are using their programmable thermostats incorrectly or not taking advantage of their flexibility. Next time you set your thermostat here are a few point to remember to get the most out of your system.
Leaving the Heating on all Day?
Some people set their thermostat to between 70ºF and 72ºF and then leave home for the day. When they return later they then adjust the temperature based on how cool or warm they feel. The belief is that this places less strain upon the system and it is easier to remember your settings. This is an old fashioned way of heating your home and very uneconomical. The home is heated when empty, at additional cost offering no benefit to the homeowner. Then upon returning, there is a period of discomfort as the home could be either too hot or too cold. The programmable thermostat was designed to replace this methodology entirely.
Getting Comfortable with Programming:
A better way to use your thermostat is to get comfortable with the programming aspects of your unit. Consider the schedule of your family, when the last person leaves the home and what time the first person coming home arrives. Set the thermostat to turn off around half an hour after the last person leaves the home and turn back on half an hour before the first person returns. This means that the person coming home should be entering a home that is pre warmed or cooled as necessary.
What Temperature Should be Set?
If your system takes a while to heat or cool your home, the programmable thermostat should be set at a temperature differential of 3ºF to 5ºF above the comfort zone. If your system works quickly, this temperature differential could be increased to 7ºF up to even 12ºF. This would mean that when you leave the house, the programmable thermostat will increase the temperature during the summer weather and lower it during the winter. This is how the system prevents cycling the HVAC system when no-one is home to save you money on your energy bills.
While You Were Sleeping:
Your programmable thermostat can also be useful for avoiding unnecessary heating or cooling at night. Most of us stay firmly tucked up and warm when asleep so heating the home too much is a waste of energy. Set the thermostat to bring the home up to a comfortable temperature half an hour before you wake for a comfortable start to the day.
Consider Size and Insulation Levels:
Many people, fail to understand that the size of their homes and the levels of insulation are vitally important considerations for heating and cooling. The best programmable thermostat in the world is useless if it is connected to an HVAC system that is too large or small for the home. A lack of adequate insulation will make the home feel colder, and it will take longer to heat up to a comfortable level. These kinds of problems will also make the HVAC system less efficient and lead to higher energy bills.