Your thermostat can be a useful energy-saving tool, or it can compromise your system’s efficiency—it all depends on how you use it. Working with an HVAC contractor can keep your central heating and air functioning as efficiently as possible, but it will be up to you to manage the thermostat use on a daily basis. Know what to do, and what common mistakes to avoid, to keep your home comfortable with minimal energy consumption.

Do:

Program it.

Program your thermostat to adjust throughout the day. During warmer weather, set the thermostat to drop 10 to 15 degrees while you’re gone for the day and when you’re asleep at night. Program the temperature to start rising 30 minutes before you leave and start cooling again 30 minutes before you return. Do the opposite during cooler weather.

Upgrade it.

Smart thermostats are a step up from programmable thermostats. They will memorize your habits and preferred comfort settings, then automatically make energy-saving adjustments. This is convenient since you will not need to change your settings, and it will know how to save as much energy as possible while keeping you comfortable. Ask your HVAC contractor about this option at your next service appointment.

Don’t:

Crank it.

Many people turn the thermostat way up or down when the temperature is uncomfortable. However, doing this won’t make your home cool down or heat up any quicker. It will only waste energy by getting your home to an uncomfortable temperature, which you’ll then need to compensate for by adjusting the thermostat again. Instead, set it to a reasonable temperature to begin with.

Compromise its location.

Your thermostat needs to be able to get an accurate temperature reading. It should be in an area away from vents, heat-producing appliances, or windows where it may sit in sunlight. If it doesn’t get an accurate reading, then your system will continuously turn on and off to try to reach the right temperature. This is called short-cycling, and it wastes a lot of energy.

When you’re ready to upgrade your thermostat, contact the HVAC contractors at Alleghany Highlands Mechanical Inc. in Covington, VA. These experts can help you maximize your system’s efficiency, and their comprehensive heating and cooling services are designed to keep you comfortable in a way that’s affordable and environmentally friendly. They are also available around the clock for emergency residential HVAC repairs. Learn more on their website and call (540) 965-0767 to schedule an appointment.