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Programmable Thermostats Work Best When Programmed Properly
Following a few simple guidelines while your programmable thermostat will not only save you energy, but it can also be convenient for minimizing or maximizing the temperature difference and set point factor for your home.
Managing energy-saving set points
Your programmable thermostat will work best if you keep it dialed back to its energy-saving set points for at least an eight-hour time frame. Pick a window of time when you're not home or when you won't be uncomfortable with a temperature difference. Choosing a comfortable set point temperature that you can live with makes your thermostat's job much easier, and you’ll get more out of it.
Programming comfort settings and avoiding consistent overrides
Most programmable thermostats have two override settings. When applying the set point temperature on your programmable thermostat, only use the hold, permanent or vacation setting if you're planning on being out of your home for an extended period of time. For temporary daily adjustments, use the temporary override button. Leaving the hold or permanent setting at a constant temperature when you're out of the home will burn through more energy than the temporary override option.
Even though your programmable thermostat will allow you to temporarily override the temperature to make it warmer or cooler in your home without erasing the preset settings, it doesn't mean you should make it a habit. By constantly using the hold button or fluctuating the heat or air conditioning for temporary adjustments, you’ll actually use more energy. Using the hold feature should be limited to short-term adjustments.
Balancing out heating and cooling zones
If your home only has one main thermostat for whole-house temperature adjustment and you have multiple heating and cooling needs, it’s a good idea to have a setback thermostat for each zone. A zoning system will balance out the overall temperature in your home and maximize energy savings throughout.
For more expert advice on your programmable thermostat or to request an HVAC service in the Greater Cincinnati area, contact Apollo Home Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
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