How to Save Money with Your Programmable Thermostat

DO PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS REALLY SAVE MONEY?

That's a question many homeowners want an answer to. The short reply is yes, but the savings are only realized if the homeowner properly uses the programmable features. That answer may seem obvious. However, one study found 40 percent of programmable thermostat owners never programmed the thermostat. Here are the keys to saving money with a programmable thermostat. 

WHY PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS ARE USEFUL

In theory, a programmable thermostat is not required to achieve savings for your energy bill. A homeowner could get the same savings by manually adjusting the thermostat several times every day. However, the reality is some homeowners forget. Other homeowners stop manually adjusting it because they do not like waking up to an uncomfortable temperature. A programmable thermostat eliminates homeowner forgetfulness and prevents the occupants from experiencing uncomfortable temperatures.

PROGRAM YOUR THERMOSTAT WHEN THE SEASON STARTS

You can program your thermostat at the start each season so you don't have to remember to adjust it daily. During the cooler months, program your thermostat for no higher than 68 degrees during the hours you're usually at home and awake. According to the Department of Energy, setting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees lower than its regular temperature for eight hours a day reduces your utility bill by 10 percent. At the start of the season, program your thermostat to lower temperature by that much at bedtime and when you depart for work. Also, you can program your thermostat to raise the temperature about an hour before you wake up or get home so that you don't have to experience uncomfortable temperatures.

You need to program your thermostat again when it's time to start cooling your home for summer. To save on your utility bill, use the same ideas as the winter with your awake and at home temperature no higher than 78 degrees. Of course, during summer you want to program the thermostat to raise the temperature about 7 degrees when you're at work or asleep. 

Our experienced and professional technicians can help you with all of your heating and cooling needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

-A R Engh Team