The thermostat is a critical part of the HVAC system that warms your home in winter and cools it during the summer. But its importance is too often overlooked, and homeowners simply change its settings up and down according to their comfort whims. This can mean a great deal of energy going to waste, especially during the cold months when the heating system puts in an enormous amount of work. When you use some planning—along with an upgrade to newer thermostat technology—you can make your thermostat work to help you conserve energy while still providing the cozy warmth your family needs during this season.
First, consider upgrading your thermostat
Thermostats do not get better with age! This is true of any appliance, but homeowners often seem to forget about it when it comes to a thermostat. If your home’s thermostat is more than a decade old, or it’s a manual or no-frills digital model, then you’re missing out on many potential energy savings. Call our technicians and ask about the many newer thermostat models available. In particular, consider a “smart” thermostat, which optimizes heating (and cooling) by designing its own programming based on your history of settings. Plus, you can remotely control these thermostats using a Wi-Fi connection or smart phone.
Next, keep a steady, lower setting on the thermostat
What is the ideal temperature during winter that will save energy and still keep you warm? The U.S. Department of Energy advises setting the thermostat to 68°F during the day when the household is awake. This temperature will be comfortable for most people, and it will prevent the rapid heat loss that comes from setting the temperature too high. During the night or periods when no one is home, program the thermostat for a temperature setback of 8° to 10°. This should shave off 5% to 15% from your seasonal heating bills.
Call Malek Heating & Cooling in Evanston, IL for all your home heating needs this winter!