Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Things To Remember When Choosing Thermostat Settings

By Jennie Sandoval


With the cost of utility on the rise, everyone is looking for ways to cut down on expenses. Part of your bill would include the expenses for heating and cooling. This could be a significant portion of the total. Though you may want to reduce your usage, these systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. What you can do is to get the thermostat settings right.

What you will need to do to get this right would be to observe your own routine. Take note of what your regular day is like, paying attention to when you leave the house and when you return. Determine if you follow the same routine for the whole week. Note if there are any changes to this schedule on certain days.

The steps to programming your device can differ. For some it will be as easy as adjusting a lever while others have more sophisticated input systems. The latter option can be confusing for many so it would be best if you read your manual first. If you have lost your copy, try going to the manufacturers website for more information.

The area where you place your thermostat can make a difference. This is one thing that you should look for in the manual. This device can be affected with exposure to sources of heat like if it is placed under direct sunlight. Moreover, make sure that your house is properly insulated to increase energy efficiency.

The temperature that needs to be maintained changes with time. Expect to reprogram the device when a season is over. There is no rule with how cold or warm you should set your device to but it should definitely be a temperature that you feel comfortable with. There may also be changes in your routine so adjust the device accordingly.

When it is summer, you should set the house to a warmer temperature when nobody is at home. Then program the device for a cooler temperature shortly before you arrive. This way, your home will be cool and comfortable when you get home. The same thing applies for the cold months. Keep it cool when no one is around and then warm it before your arrival.

You may be setting your system to the highest levels so that you can become more comfortable. However, what homeowners should know is that one degree is a big difference. Imagine how much it can save in one day and if you do this everyday then it could mean a significant amount of savings. Lower the temperature gradually so you can adjust to the temperature.

There are so many heating and cooling systems available. There are also a lot of programmable devices that are being sold in the market. Because there are so many kinds, it is necessary to check the compatibility of the device to the installed system. Some of these heating systems, such as those with heat pumps, will only be compatible with certain models.

The right thermostat settings will go a long way to reducing your utility bills. Though the rates have increased with time, you can do something to help decrease the payments. Establish the times you are in your home so you can set the temperatures accordingly. Lowering the temperature to your limit will also increase your savings.




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