Do Programmable Thermostats Really Benefit Me?

Do Programmable Thermostats Really Benefit Me?

If you’re still using a manual thermostat, you may be wondering whether it’s time to switch to a programmable variety. Programmable thermostats have a number of features and benefits that can help you save money on your utility bills and also experience increased comfort at home.

Preset Solutions for Heating and Cooling

A programmable thermostat allows you to set your heating and cooling for a specific temperature instead of having to manually change the setting. To shave money of your utility bill, have a “setback” period for at least eight hours each day. If you set your thermostat back just one degree for eight hours, you can shave 1 percent from your heating and cooling bill. Each additional setback back will save 1 percent more. Many people have their thermostats set to decrease by 10 degrees at night or at work, which lowers their expenses.

Increased Comfort

The ability to program your thermostat means you can set it to begin heating or cooling your home before you get there, or before you wake up in the morning. With this convenience, you don’t have to wait uncomfortably for your home to reach the ideal temperature. It’ll also save you money, as it prevents you from having to leave the HVAC unit on all day and night.

Different Options

Programmable thermostats often have digital displays that are user friendly. They make it easy to preset certain temperatures for certain times of the day. Some also let you select different temperatures for weekends. Other options include:

  • Wi-Fi capabilities, to change the settings from any mobile device
  • Air filter alerts, so you don’t forget to change it
  • Manual overrides, which lets you manually change the setting any time without changing the preset program

When Programmable Thermostats Don’t Save You Money

While programmable thermostats are extremely convenient, in order to take advantage of the convenience and save money on your energy bill, you’ll have to be proactive about using it. For example, having a programmable thermostat and not setting it to reduce heating or cooling at specific times of the day will result in either the same energy usage, or even increased usage. If you’re unsure how to use your programmable thermostat, contact your HVAC technician or service representative. These thermostats have the potential to make your life easier, as long as you know how to take advantage of their features.

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