Top Tips to Optimize Your Programmable Thermostat
Posted on September 30, 2018
A programmable thermostat is an indispensable unit that can help you in the management of your utility bills. By tailoring your air conditioning, you can enjoy both a quality indoor environment while at the same time saving on energy. A programmable thermostat allows you to define the times and the temperatures that you want your ac to run at. This is particularly helpful when you are away either on a vacation or just for a short time.
Programmable Thermostats Features
There are three main types of programmable thermostats. The choice is yours depending on your needs and preferences. Each of the thermostats has its own unique benefits that you need to consider before purchasing and installing. These thermostats have also been recommended by the Energy Star Program.
7-Day Programmable Thermostat Models
This type of thermostat is an excellent choice if your ac schedule changes from one day to the next. They are very flexible and will give you the ability to set different programs for each and every day. Usually, it gives you four temperature periods per day.
5+2-Day Programmable Thermostats Models
These models are set in such a manner that you can have a schedule for weekdays and for weekends. This is important if you prefer a different environment at weekends to allow you and your family to relax indoors.
5-1-1 Programmable Thermostats Models
Slightly different from the 5+2-Day model, the 5-1-1-Day thermostat lets you maintain a schedule for the 5 weekdays from Monday to Friday and different schedules to cover Saturday and Sunday. Again, this gives you an extra flexibility.
The onus is on you to determine the settings at which you are most comfortable. Generally, every degree that you lower or raise in the thermostat will save you about 2% on your energy bill.
Optimizing Your Programmable Thermostat
To get the most out of your thermostat, there are certain guidelines that you can follow. Below is a discussion of some of them.
Thermostat Installation
When installing your programmable thermostat, ensure that it is positioned away from registers, heating or cooling vents, open doorways, heat-generating electronics or appliances, and direct sunlight.
Set Long Periods of Constant Temperature – To benefit from the optimal performance of your programmable thermostat, ensure that you set it at constant temperatures for a long duration. You can take advantage of the nights when you are sleeping or during the day while you are away at work.
Avoid Settings Override
There is always a temptation to override your settings. While this may be possible with programmable thermostats, it is not always economical. Settings override cost you money.
Install a Thermostat for Every Zone
If your house has a zoned air conditioning system, consider installing a programmable thermostat for every zone. This will enable you to reap benefits arising from controlled energy savings in certain parts of the house that are rarely used.
Benefits of Programmable Thermostats
The popularity of programmable thermostats stems from the fact that they carry lots of benefits. These benefits compared to the purchase and installation costs are significant. Some of the tangible benefits accrued to homeowners include:
Enhanced Indoor Comfort
Through pre-set temperatures, these thermostats guarantee you and your family convenience and comfort. Compared to manual thermostats where the button has to be pressed each and every time, this is an absolute game changer.
Energy Savings
The investment made in programmable thermostats can be recouped within the first year of operation through reduced energy bills. When used properly, this thermostat can save you up to $150 annually.
Customization
As opposed to manual thermostats, programmable thermostats are highly customization. You can set them at different schedules depending on your unique needs and preferences. There are schedules for the weekday and the weekends. When you are away on vacation, it is advisable to keep your thermostat at a constant temperature.
With the ongoing innovations and developments in the thermostat niche, more is still to come especially on the programming aspect. If you want to save energy while enjoying a customized indoor environment, programmable thermostats are the best.