If there’s one thing that all homeowners can relate to, it’s the desire to save money on their winter heating bills. Fortunately, there are numerous options available that you can implement to enhance the operating efficiency of your heater. Below, we’ll dive into more detail about how a programmable thermostat may be your best option.
Why Does Heating Efficiency Really Matter?
Before we jump into what programmable thermostats are and how you can use them to optimize your heating system’s operating efficiency, let’s first explore why efficiency matters. The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that homeowners spend approximately 40% of their total home energy usage on heating costs. With heating accounting for such a large portion of your annual budget, it’s essential to be mindful of your heating system’s efficiency.
An inefficient heater will cost more to operate and can lead to a shorter lifespan, as well as decreased home comfort. The more efficient you can make your heating system, the less energy it will consume to keep your family comfortable throughout the winter season. The less energy it uses, the lower your heating bills will be for the year. One of the easiest places to start boosting the efficiency of your heating system is by upgrading your thermostat.
What Is a Programmable Thermostat?
A programmable thermostat is a unique device that allows you to schedule your home’s heating settings in advance. Unlike traditional dial thermostats, which require manual adjustments whenever you want to change the temperature, a programmable thermostat allows for a customized heating schedule that automatically adjusts throughout the day to meet your specific needs.
For example, one of the easiest ways to reduce the runtime of your heating system is to set the temperature lower during the overnight hours when you’re asleep. Most people sleep better in colder temperatures, which is a win-win when it comes to your sleep environment and your heating bills. Even better, you can turn the temperature down when you’re away at work so your heating system isn’t running continuously to keep your home comfortable when no one is there to benefit from the heat it produces.
While a programmable thermostat may seem like a small device compared to your heat pump or furnace, it’s actually a very powerful tool. It can completely transform the way your heating system operates and eliminate wasted energy. As a homeowner, you can appreciate the reduction in heating bills while still living in a comfortable and cozy environment.
Must-Have Thermostat Features
There’s no lack of programmable thermostats on the market today. When you search for one for your home, you’ll come across several different types of models. Below, we’ll discuss some key features you’ll want to ensure your new programmable thermostat has so that you can optimize your energy savings over the coming decade.
Multiple Schedule Options
Programmable thermostats can be designed to accept daily, weekly, or weekend/weekday settings. If you’re looking for ultimate customization, choosing a programmable thermostat that offers daily settings can be more expensive upfront but it can lead to greater long-term energy savings. However, simply selecting a thermostat that allows you to set different temperatures for weekdays compared to weekends can make a significant difference in lowering your utility bills throughout the winter.
Adaptive Learning
Another great feature to consider is adaptive learning technology. This technology monitors the different changes you make to your thermostat. Whenever it detects the same changes occurring repeatedly, it will automatically adjust your thermostat’s settings. For example, let’s say that you turn the temperature down three degrees at 8 PM just before you go to bed.
It may only take two nights of you turning that down for the adaptive learning technology in your programmable thermostat to take over and change your settings so that the temperature automatically decreases on the third night. Adaptive learning technology can help catch patterns in your normal interactions with your thermostat and optimize them for optimal comfort and automation.
Remote Access
One other key feature to look out for when purchasing a programmable thermostat is remote accessibility. These are very common with many Wi-Fi programmable thermostats and smart thermostats. Remote access simply means that you can change your thermostat settings from the convenience of your smartphone or other device, anywhere you have internet connectivity. This means that you can adjust your settings to keep the temperature lower if you plan on eating dinner out before returning home from work.
Tips on Using Programmable Thermostats Effectively
Installing a programmable thermostat for your heating system is the first step in optimizing your energy savings by enhancing your heater’s operating performance. To ensure the highest possible operating efficiency, you need to program your thermostat correctly. Below, we provide some helpful advice on how to ensure your thermostat settings are set up for optimal system performance.
Use Nighttime Setbacks
Probably the most straightforward strategy you can implement to ensure energy savings with your new programmable thermostat is using nighttime setbacks. Aim to lower the temperature by seven to 10 degrees during the overnight hours. Many homeowners find that using a comforter is all they need to stay cozy and warm at a lower temperature during the overnight hours. Since most homeowners spend eight or more hours asleep every night, this can lead to significant energy savings over time.
Optimize Work Hours
Another key strategy for optimizing HVAC performance while reducing energy costs is to take advantage of your work hours. Set the temperature down by as much as 10 degrees during times you know you’ll be at work. In fact, anytime your house is empty is the perfect time to turn the temperature down, so your heating system doesn’t run as often. Setting the temperature lower for eight or more hours when you’re away from home can have a significant impact on your energy bills.
Use in Modern HVAC Systems
There’s no doubt that programmable thermostats are at the center of the energy efficiency revolution for residential HVAC systems. Many newer heating systems already come with wireless technology that seamlessly pairs the unit to a programmable or smart thermostat. Many models offer advanced features, such as diagnostic feedback, humidity management, and variable speed controls, which are great for maximizing comfort and optimizing overall system performance.
A Smart Choice for All Homeowners
Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat is a smart choice for any homeowner. Those who are hesitant about using these devices due to their complexity should be aware that they come with user-friendly interfaces, making them easy to operate. These thermostats are highly affordable for the average homeowner, and you may find that your local utility company offers a rebate if you provide proof of purchase for one of these devices.
Expert Heating Maintenance Service
Elite Heating & Air Conditioning Services offers expert heating maintenance service for the San Diego, CA community. We can also assist with all your heating repair, new installation, and replacement needs.
Contact Elite Heating & Air Conditioning Services today to schedule your next heating service consultation with one of our knowledgeable HVAC technicians.
