If your home is like most, it has a central heating and cooling system that is operated by a thermostat. You probably interact with your thermostat at least once a day, but are you sure you’re using it in the most effectively? Here are a few common mistakes HVAC contractors notice homeowners often make with their thermostats that ultimately result in high energy costs. 

3 Ways You Might Be Using Your Thermostat Wrong

1. Turn It Up or Down More Than Necessary

The role of a thermostat is to notify the central heating and cooling system of the correct temperature requested in order to make the home comfortable. Turning it up or down extra degrees will not help the temperature within the space adjust more quickly to your preferred comfort level. Rather, this action will only make your HVAC system run longer than necessary, increasing your energy bill in the process. Instead of using your thermostat to overwork the system, find alternatives to help you stay comfortable, like adding or losing extra layers of clothing. 

2. Ignore Outside Temperature Fluctuations

While it might seem like a thermostat should always be kept at a set temperature, this can actually cause your central heating and cooling system to work harder than necessary. For instance, during winter you might have the urge to keep the temperature set at a consistently higher temperature. However, you can save energy by lowering the thermostat during the day to take advantage of the natural heat from the sun instead. Use a programmable thermostat to automatically lower or raise the temperature in a way that corresponds with the time of day. 

3. Program It to Run the System All Day

Chances are, you are not home all day every day. During these absences, there is no reason to have your system continuously heating or cooling your home. In fact, you can actually save 10 percent a year on your energy bill by raising or lowering the thermostat seven degrees to 10 degrees for up to eight hours a day. Ideal times to make these temperature adjustments would be while you’re at work for the day or in bed at night.

Another mistake homeowners commonly make is holding on to a thermostat that’s past its prime. If yours hasn’t been updated in over a decade, and you suspect this could be affecting how your central heating and cooling system operates, contact Prestige Air Heating & Cooling, LLC in Woodland Park, NJ. For nearly 15 years, this HVAC contractor has provided a comprehensive range of HVAC repair, maintenance, and installation services to the Bergen County area. For more information on their services, visit their website or call (973) 500-4040.