Should I consider adding a programmable thermostat?

Benefits of programmable thermostats

Adding a programmable thermostat offers valuable benefits to homeowners. Maximize your energy savings by setting one temperature for periods where your home is occupied and your family is awake, and program a setback for when your family is gone or asleep. Setting your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees from your preferred temperature for periods of eight or more hours will help you shave as much as 10 percent off your heating and cooling costs each year.

Other benefits include:

• Programmable thermostats make saving energy nearly effortless: Program temperature schedules for both heating and cooling, and your thermostat will make adjustments on its own. You’ll never have to fret about forgetting to adjust your thermostat before leaving the house again, wasting energy heating or cooling an empty home all day or while you’re gone on vacation.
• Save energy while keeping your home comfortable: Saving energy doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. Program energy-saving setbacks during times when your comfort won’t be affected, such as when you’re gone or sleeping. Schedule temperature setbacks to end 15 minutes before you wake or return home and your home will return to your preferred occupied temperatures promptly.

Types of programmable thermostats

There are multiple types of programmable thermostats available, designed to meet your scheduling needs. Most thermostats allow for 4 temperature changes per day, though it will vary by the model. Types of programmable thermostats include:

• 7 day models give you the ability to set temperature schedules for every day of the week. This is the most flexible programmable thermostat option, ideal for households which have busy and varying schedules.
• 5-1-1 day models allow homeowners to set a temperature schedule which will apply to every weekday, and set individual schedules for Saturday and Sunday. This type of programmable thermostat is a good option for households with consistent schedules through the work or school week with various activities on the weekends.
• 5-2 day models utilize one set of temperature schedules for the work or school week, and another which applies to the weekend. 5-2 day models are perfect for families with consistent schedules during the week and on the weekends.
• 1 week models allow homeowners to program a temperature schedule which will apply for every day of the week. This type of programmable thermostat is perfect for households where someone is always home, such as a stay-at-home parent or those working from home.

Programmable thermostats offer a hold or vacation feature which you can use to temporarily deviate from programmed schedules, but it is recommended that they not be used often, as these features will disrupt expected energy savings.

Is a programmable thermostat compatible with my system?

Programmable thermostats are available for use with all types of HVAC systems, including central heat and air units as well as geothermal heating and cooling. They can be used with equipment manufactured by all brands, including Trane, Rheem, Bryant, and Carrier. Your HVAC contractor will assist you in choosing a new programmable thermostat that provides the features you desire and is compatible with your system.

For friendly and professional advice on the sales, service and maintenance of HVAC equipment; contact Parkers Heating and Cooling today or call us at 615-355-9137.