How Programmable Thermostats Can Help Wilmington Residents Save Energy

As a Wilmington resident, you know that keeping your home comfortable during the hot summer months can lead to high energy bills. One simple way to reduce your energy usage and save money is by installing a programmable thermostat. Revolutionary Air, a trusted HVAC contractor serving Wilmington for over 10 years, explains how these smart devices can help you optimize your home’s heating and cooling.

What is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat is a device that allows you to set automatic temperature adjustments based on your schedule and preferences. Unlike a traditional thermostat that maintains one constant temperature, a programmable model lets you set different temperatures for different times of day and days of the week.

For example, you can program the thermostat to raise the temperature when you’re away at work during the day, then lower it again just before you return home. You can also set different schedules for weekdays and weekends to match your routine.

How Does a Programmable Thermostat Save Energy?

The key to saving energy with a programmable thermostat is reducing your HVAC usage when you don’t need it. By setting the temperature higher in the summer (or lower in the winter) during times when you’re away or asleep, you can avoid wasting energy on unnecessary heating and cooling.

The Department of Energy estimates that you can save as much as 10% a year on your heating and cooling costs by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting. For a typical Wilmington household, that could mean savings of $100 or more over the course of a year.

Types of Programmable Thermostats

There are several different types of programmable thermostats available to suit different needs and lifestyles:

1. 7-day models: These thermostats let you set a different schedule for each day of the week. They offer the most flexibility and are best for households with varying daily routines.
2. 5+2-day models: With these thermostats, you can set one schedule for weekdays and a separate schedule for weekends. They’re a good choice if your routine is the same Monday through Friday but differs on Saturday and Sunday.
3. 5-1-1 models: These let you set one schedule for weekdays, one for Saturdays, and one for Sundays. They offer a bit more flexibility than 5+2-day models.
4. 1-week models: These thermostats let you set one schedule that repeats every day of the week. They’re best for households that maintain the same routine daily.

Features to Look for in a Programmable Thermostat

When shopping for a programmable thermostat, look for the following features to maximize your energy savings and convenience:

• Energy Star certification: Thermostats that earn the Energy Star label have been independently certified to save energy without sacrificing performance or features.
• Compatibility with your HVAC system: Make sure the thermostat you choose is compatible with your heating and cooling equipment. Some models are designed for single-stage systems, while others can control multi-stage or heat pump systems.
• Intuitive interface: Look for a thermostat with a clear, easy-to-read display and simple controls. The best models offer on-screen prompts to guide you through programming.
• Wi-Fi capability: A Wi-Fi enabled thermostat lets you monitor and control your HVAC system remotely from your smartphone or tablet. Some models even allow you to track your energy usage over time.
• Vacation hold feature: This lets you set a constant, efficient temperature for extended periods when you’re away from home, overriding your regular programming.

Tips for Getting the Most Savings from Your Programmable Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat is a great first step toward energy savings, but to get the best results, follow these tips:

1. Set your “comfort” and “setback” temperatures carefully: In the summer, aim for a comfort temperature of around 78°F when you’re home and a setback temperature of 85°F when you’re away. In winter, try a comfort temperature of 68°F and a setback of 60°F.
2. Program long setback periods: The longer your HVAC system runs at the setback temperature, the more energy you’ll save. Try to set back the temperature for at least 8 hours a day, such as during the workday or overnight.
3. Avoid cranking temperatures to extremes: Setting your thermostat to a very low temperature in summer or a very high temperature in winter won’t cool or heat your home any faster – it will just make your HVAC system work harder and use more energy.
4. Use your thermostat’s vacation hold feature: If you’ll be away from home for an extended period, set your thermostat to an efficient temperature and activate the vacation hold. No need to heat or cool an empty house!
5. Change your HVAC system’s air filter regularly: A dirty filter can make your heating and cooling system work harder and use more energy, undermining your thermostat’s efficiency. Check the filter monthly and change it at least every 3 months.

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you’re handy with basic electrical work, installing a programmable thermostat can be a simple DIY project. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Turn off power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove your old thermostat’s faceplate and unscrew the mounting plate from the wall.
3. Take a photo of the existing wiring for reference. Disconnect the wires and label them according to the old thermostat’s terminals.
4. Feed the wires through the new thermostat’s mounting plate and screw the plate to the wall.
5. Connect the wires to the corresponding terminals on the new thermostat, using your reference photo as a guide.
6. Snap the new thermostat’s faceplate onto the mounting plate and restore power to your HVAC system.
7. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set your temperature schedule and preferences.

If you’re not comfortable working with wiring, or if you encounter any issues during installation, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Revolutionary Air’s expert technicians can safely install your new programmable thermostat and ensure it’s properly calibrated to your HVAC system.

Pros and Cons of Programmable Thermostats

Pros

1. Significant energy savings: By automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re away or asleep, programmable thermostats can reduce your HVAC energy usage by up to 10%, leading to lower utility bills.
2. Convenient temperature control: With a programmable thermostat, you don’t have to remember to manually adjust the temperature every time you leave the house or go to bed. Set your schedule once, and the thermostat takes care of the rest.
3. Customizable settings: Most programmable thermostats offer multiple schedule options to fit different household routines. You can fine-tune your temperature settings to maximize comfort and efficiency.
4. Compatible with most HVAC systems: Programmable thermostats work with the majority of heating and cooling systems, including furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps.
5. Better for the environment: By reducing your energy usage, programmable thermostats help lower your home’s carbon footprint and conserve natural resources.

Cons

1. Initial cost: While programmable thermostats are relatively affordable, they do require an upfront investment. Basic models start around $20, while more advanced Wi-Fi enabled designs can cost $200 or more.
2. Learning curve: Some people may find programming a thermostat intimidating or confusing at first. However, most models come with clear instructions and on-screen prompts to simplify the process.
3. Potential for user error: If you don’t set your temperature schedules correctly or override them too frequently, you may not see the full energy savings. It’s important to program your thermostat carefully and stick to your settings as much as possible.
4. Not suitable for all households: Programmable thermostats work best for people who are away from home on a regular schedule. If your daily routine is highly variable or you spend most of your time at home, you may not see as much benefit.
5. Requires regular battery changes: Most programmable thermostats are battery-powered, and the batteries will need to be replaced every 1-2 years. If the batteries die, your thermostat will stop working and your HVAC system may shut off unexpectedly.

Despite these potential drawbacks, programmable thermostats are an excellent way for most Wilmington households to reduce their energy usage and save money on heating and cooling costs. By installing one and following best practices for programming and maintenance, you can enjoy a more comfortable home and lower utility bills year-round.

If you’re interested in upgrading to a programmable thermostat, Revolutionary Air can help. Our experienced technicians will help you select the best model for your needs, provide expert HVAC installation, and show you how to get the most out of your new thermostat’s features. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your appointment.