Programmable Thermostats- Saving Energy

You can, indeed save energy costs with programmable thermostats. However, there are several things to be aware of in order to realize those savings.

Energy Facts

Energy Star estimates that about 45% of a home’s entire energy usage is used by your HVAC equipment. By National average, that can be $2100- $2500 per year, often more. A significant portion of this energy is spent in heating or cooling unoccupied areas.

Consider reducing your HVAC energy consumption during hours you are sleeping or away from home. It is estimated you can save 1% for every 1 degree you lower or raise the temperature setting. Lowering by each degree in the Winter and raising by each degree in the Summer can add up. By adjusting 10 degrees, you can potentially realize a 10% in savings during those times.

It can be difficult to achieve these savings. Much depends on how you use your thermostats when you are home or awake. These thermostats work best when set for the desired temperatures during specific times of the day and then left alone. Bumping up or bumping down the temperature can actually use more energy.

Ideal Settings

Ideally you need to set the Programmable Thermostat at energy saving temperatures.

In the Winter:
• 68 degrees for occupied areas or occupied times
• 58- 60 degrees during unoccupied areas or times In the Summer:
• 78 degrees during occupation
• 82- 85 degrees during unoccupied areas or times

By committing to these settings you are more likely to realize these savings. Anytime the thermostat is manually adjusted, the energy savings are impacted and you are less likely to save energy.

Types of Programmable Thermostats

There are many types of programmable thermostats with constantly evolving technology. A standard programmable thermostat can range from a simple LED device to complex Digital device depending on your preference. There are “Smart” programmable thermostats which can be wirelessly remote controlled. They can even “Learn” your preferences and be used in conjunction with your smart phone.

Air Doctor Heating and Air can assist you if you have any questions.