In recent years, programmable thermostats have gained popularity. Switching from a standard manual thermostat to a programmable one allows you to select a comfortable temperature. The ability to set your thermostat according to the specific needs of your lifestyle increases your home comfort level.
For example, if you sleep better when it is cooler, a programmable thermostat will help you sleep better. After being set, it will automatically adjust the setting to a cooler temperature during the times you would normally be asleep. You can also set the thermostat to adjust the indoor temperature to make your home warmer when you wake up.
The addition of a programmable thermostat to your home’s heating and air conditioning system is a simple project that many homeowners choose to do on their own. However, a local HVAC technician can help with installation of your new programmable thermostat. More importantly, he or she can help you choose the most efficient model for your lifestyle and your HVAC unit.
Why You Should Have a Programmable Thermostat Installed in Your Home
If you haven’t made the switch to a programmable thermostat, here are a few of the many benefits.
#1 – Saving Money
With energy costs rising all across the country, consumers are always looking for ways to money on their utility bills. The best way to reduce your energy costs is to reduce your energy use. One easy way to do this is by using a programmable thermostat.
Programmable thermostats give you the ability to adjust the temperature in your home to meet your comfort needs. By creating a schedule that works with your family’s routine, a programmable thermostat enables you to keep the indoor temperature cooler or warmer, depending on the season, during the hours that your family is away.
Energy experts say every degree you raise or lower your thermostat, you can save up to two percent on your utility costs. Over time a programmable thermostat can offer significant savings.
#2 – Less Need for Adjustments
Homeowners with programmable thermostats need to make fewer adjustments to their home’s thermostat. A manual thermostat requires regular adjustment when you leave or arrive home. It also must be adjusted before you go to bed and again when you get up in the morning.
With a programmable thermostat, you simply take the time to set the desired temperatures for specific times of day. You only have to set it once and then forget about it. You never have to worry about forgetting to adjust your thermostat when you leave the house. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts it for you at the preselected time.
#3 – Improved Energy Efficiency
If your home is energy efficient, your major appliances will suffer less wear and tear. For those who are concerned about draining valuable limited resources, increased energy efficiency is a top priority. If you want to decrease your carbon footprint, but want to remain comfortable, a programmable thermostat helps curb energy waste.
#4 – Extending the Life of Your HVAC Unit
With an older system, replacing your manual thermostat with a programmable one can help your system do its job more efficiently. By reducing the units total workload, you can extend the life of an outdated system. However, you should check with a heating and cooling professional to make sure you aren’t putting your home or family at risk with an old system that isn’t functioning properly.
If you have a new HVAC unit, a programmable thermostat can help keep your new purchase in tip top condition.
#5 – You Get to Use Cool High-Tech Tools
Many of today’s programmable thermostats come with a variety of high-tech options. Some of these options include the ability to remotely interface using your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. With these features, you can easily access your home’s thermostat from the comfort of your own couch or anywhere in the world.
#6 – Establishing Zone Heating and Cooling
Programmable thermostats also enable you to create multiple climate zones within your home’s interior. By placing programmable controls in different zones of your home, you can customize the temperature within those zones to meet the individual comfort needs of household members. For example, you may choose to lower the programmed wintertime temperature for areas of your home that receive less traffic. Likewise, you can set a warmer temperature in the zones where your family spends most of its time.
By investing a small amount of time and money into installing a programmable thermostat, you benefit by raising your level of home comfort while lowering your energy costs. By adding this convenient device to your home, you’ll be doing the planet, your wallet, and your family a favor.