How to Save Money With a Programmable Thermostat

Are we doing our part to save our planet earth? There are many different ways we can save money and live green. The EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) suggests using a programmable thermostat in our homes. We can conserve energy and keep our homes comfortable at the same time.

You can save five to 15 percent a year by setting your programmable thermostat, and sticking to that program.

It is estimated that you can save as much as one percent of your heating expenses per degree that you turn your temperature down while you are away from home or asleep.

Of course, every family has their own special needs, so you must take them into consideration. But if you know you will all be away from your home consistently during certain hours, you can program your thermostat to be lower during that time.

Most people sleep better when it is a little cooler, so you can program your heater to be a little lower during that time.

Seasons

During the summer months, you may be tempted to jack up the air conditioning, but it is best to set it at a comfortable temperature all summer instead of yo-yo programming. You should try to avoid changing the settings on your heater and air conditioning settings, as that can end up costing you more, because it makes the system work harder.

Make a Plan

Depending on your family's schedule, you should make a plan which best suits your needs. Set your specifications and try not to deviate from it. Keeping the temperature in your home steady and comfortable is the ultimate goal. You can set your heater to be between 68-72 during the day and 60-68 at night. You could also set your air conditioner to do the same although the temperatures would be in the upper 70s during the day and lower 70s during the night.

Teach Your Family Members

Making a plan and sticking to it only works if you have informed all members of your family what your intentions are. If they know that you are trying to conserve energy and save money, they are more likely to cooperate. If they are cold or hot, they can make adjustments in the clothing they wear. If you set your thermostat to cater to the family general needs, there is no reason why different members of the family should override the settings.

Maintenance

Oftentimes there are good intentions, but if the heater and cooler in the home are not maintained, it is difficult to reach the optimal benefits. You should regularly replace the batteries on your programmable thermostat. Also it is good to schedule in time to clean the vents and ducts. Also be sure to replace filters regularly.

Window Treatments

You can use window treatments, such as lined drapes or window films to keep the temperature in your home consistent. Over time, these will be very beneficial to your comfort and savings.

Your Thermostat Manual

Keep your manual in a safe place so you can refer to it often. It has valuable information about settings and maintenance.