Regardless of the temperatures outside, your household can be comfortable year-round when the thermostat is properly set. As technology continues to improve, HVAC systems respond with digital control panels and advanced temperature sensors. Currently, you can use your AC thermostat to save money when you know how to program it. Take a look at the clever strategies possible today, and you’ll see your electrical bill dramatically drop.
Cold, Weekday Settings
When winter’s chill sets in, you might automatically turn the heater up. However, your home doesn’t have to be warm and toasty when everyone is at school or work. To save money during the winter weekdays, set the thermostat to 56 degrees Fahrenheit. The home has some warmth to it in order to keep everything from freezing without conditioned air circulating inside. When everyone returns home, the thermostat can be set at a higher temperature. This low, 56-degree F. temperature can save a family hundreds of dollars throughout the year because most households are empty for about eight hours each weekday. That’s a long time period for money savings with the right thermostat setting.
A Full Household on Cold Nights
Dinnertime and the early evening hours should be warm in your home, so turn the thermostat to 68 degrees F. during this time. The temperature change is a small one so that the HVAC system doesn’t work too hard to warm the space back up. If anyone is chilly, they can always wear a sweater or cuddle under a blanket as they watch television. As everyone goes to sleep, the thermostat should be turned down to the upper 50s again. There’s no need to keep the home really warm when everyone is in bed and under thick blankets.
Summertime Programming
Ideally, you should use the same thermostat strategy during the summer. When everyone is at home and the exterior temperatures are rising, the thermostat should be set to 78 degrees F. This temperature may seem high, but you can counteract any discomfort with ceiling and desk fans. Fans will always used less energy than the HVAC system and save you money. As everyone leaves for the day, set the thermostat for the mid-80s. The home won’t be too warm when everyone returns. The HVAC system doesn’t work as hard to cool the home with no one inside, and money savings are the result.
Learning Thermostats
If you have an AC thermostat that’s 10 years or older, consider a small investment in a learning model. Many thermostat models today have microprocessors that actually “learn” about your favorite temperature settings. If you diligently lower the temperature around 8 a.m. each weekday as you leave for work, the system notes this in their programming. One morning, however, you may forget to set the thermostat. In response, the system automatically sets itself for your favorite temperature. This helpful response can save you a lot of money over time. At some point, you may rarely set the system because it’s learned all of your preferred settings.
Remote-Access Systems
If you want more control over your energy use, look for remote-access systems. Your AC thermostat can have WiFi connectivity. When you’re at work or school, you can log into your account through an Internet connection. Turn the thermostat up or down whenever the weather changes drastically outside. Controlling your system from any location allows you to save on energy costs. You don’t have to worry if you forgot to turn off the AC, and arrive home to either frigid or hot conditions. Simply log in and access the system’s current power level. With the swipe of a finger, you’re always in control.
Calling your trusted HVAC company on a regular basis can help you save money too. These technicians can explain the latest programming options and service the system simultaneously. A well-maintained system combined with the right programming will increase the AC components’ lifespans and keep you comfortable every day of the year.