Your programmable thermostat can help you save on your energy costs, but are you getting the most efficient use out of it? Here are some tips you can use to make sure you’re getting the most savings by using the right programmable thermostat settings.

  • Some programmable thermostats require batteries, but not all units indicate when the batteries need to be replaced. Don’t forget to check and change yearly.
  • If your home has multiple heating and cooling zones, you will need a programmable setback thermostat for each zone.
  • Although many people do this, cranking the unit up to an unreasonably high temperature will not heat your house faster, nor will it cool down your house faster by setting it on an unreasonably low temperature. If you’re going to override the programmed setting (see next tip), put the override temperature where you want your comfort level, rather than unnaturally high or low.
  • Try to stick to the programming. If you constantly override it to temporarily heat or cool an area, you will waste energy and defeat the purpose of the programmable thermostat.
  • Try to have the programmable thermostat’s energy-saving settings remain at a constant temperature for long stretches of time for maximum savings. For example, you may have eight hours during the day when the home is unoccupied, and eight hours while you sleep.
  • Programmable thermostats may have two types of hold settings: a vacation hold and a temporary hold. The vacation hold should be used when you plan to be away for more than two or three days. Setting this at a constant and energy-saving temperature instead of the comfort setting will save you money while you’re away.

Another important tip for efficiency is to maintain your HVAC equipment by having it serviced twice yearly by qualified service technicians. At Comfort Systems, we offer an easy-to-use maintenance program with discounted parts and labor. This will ensure your cooling or heating system is operating at the best possible efficiency, and help your equipment last longer.

Please contact us at Comfort Systems if you have any questions on programmable thermostat settings, or any other home comfort issues. We have been serving Wichita and the surrounding area since 1996.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Wichita, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about programmable thermostats and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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