During the summer, a majority of homeowners are caught in a tedious struggle with the thermostat. On one side of the spectrum is trying to keep the thermostat set as high as possible in an effort to save on utility costs. But then again, it sure is nice to feel cool when the temperature outside consistently reaches scorching levels.
In many ways, thermostat issues are a year-round struggle because energy efficiency and comfort are best addressed in cold weather as well. A good way to reduce heating and cooling bills but also feel cool throughout the summer is with a programmable thermostat—an inexpensive, easy-to-implement accessory that brings with it multiple benefits. Here are a few listed below.
FEWER UTILITY COSTS
One of the largest wastes of energy is when the air conditioner is set low at times when it’s not necessary like when people are off to work, outside or when they are sleeping. A majority people are diligent about switching the A/C off when they leave for long stretches of time, but a programmable thermostat removes any risk of forgetfulness and automatically adjusts to a milder temperature at off-peak times.
MORE COMFORTABLE
Of course one of the annoying things about turning the air conditioner off for the day when you leave is that you come home to a hot and muggy house. A programmable thermostat can be directed to reduce the temperature in the house about 30 minutes before you reach home so that you come home to a cool, pleasant environment.
CONVENIENCE
Programmable thermostats really are a “set it and forget it” appliance as many of them have options for either 7-day (different times for each day), 5 + 2 (weekday and weekend settings) and 5-1-1 (weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays) schedules. Additionally, with the touchscreen technology thermostats are pretty easy to set up and they can be installed seamlessly by a certified HVAC technician. Modern programmable thermostats can even be controlled using your smartphone and provide complete control over your home comfort wherever you are, day or night.
AFFORDABLE
The simplest programmable thermostats sell for close to $20 and usually require no more than an hour of labor to be installed. In addition, whatever the initial investment is can be replenished rather promptly with the 10%30% reduction in energy bills that the programmable thermostats can achieve.
If anything, the installation of a programmable thermostat is the first direction in optimizing the efficiency of a home. Projects that follow may be sealing up any gaps around doors, upgrading windows and beefing up wall insulation. It’s not impossible to save 50% from what you’re paying in heating and cooling bills now and all that is lost profits the more time that’s wasted.
So basically, if you don’t already have one, buy a programmable thermostat today!
Some popular thermostats to choose from: