Programmable thermostats are excellent devices to save energy and enjoy carefree comfort – if they are used correctly. Read on to learn how to save money with a programmable thermostat using practical settings and installation tips.
Thermostat Compatibility
Programmable thermostats are available with a plethora of features and designs to serve any homeowner’s needs. The programmable thermostat you select should be compatible with your home comfort systems, lifestyle and budget. Following are some of the features and options to consider:
- Select a model that serves your household’s schedule. Programming options include 5+2-day models with one workweek and one weekend program, 7-day models for programming for each day of the week, and 5+1+1 for the same program during the week, a different one on Saturday, and a different one on Sunday.
- If you cool and heat your Central Florida home with a heat pump, make sure your new thermostat offers Smart Recovery. This feature brings your home to temperature during the heating months without activating the backup electric resistance heating element.
- Ask your HVAC professional which WiFi thermostats are compatible with your comfort systems. If you are upgrading your heat pump or AC, consider the advanced features WiFi programmable thermostats offer, such as remote access via a smartphone app or online computer, total indoor environmental control, management and monitoring, and automatic temperature adjustments based on outside temperature and humidity.
How to Save Money With a Programmable Thermostat
Of course, in order to save money with your new programmable thermostat, it must be installed and used correctly. Here are a few tips:
- Install the thermostat on an inner wall, in a central area, out of direct sunlight and away from drafts and air vents.
- Program working and sleeping hours for energy-saving settings. Start with moderate programmed temperature changes. Increase the temperature variance (e.g. 4 to 10 degrees) as desired once you are accustomed to using the new thermostat.
- Try to avoid the using the “override” or “hold” feature to manually change the temperature. This is another reason to start with moderate temperature changes, and adjust for savings without sacrificing too much comfort.
For more information about how to save money with a programmable thermostat in your Florida home, please contact SSI today.
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