A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust and manage the usage of your HVAC equipment based on predetermined settings. Many modern thermostats come with programmable options, but a recent study found that most homeowners who have these types of thermostats are unsure how to use them. Use this quick guide to learn more about how to use these devices and their benefits.

What Homeowners Should Know About Programmable Thermostats

How They Work

Like a traditional thermostat, programmable varieties give you control over when the HVAC system comes on, as well as the temperature levels inside the home. While a traditional model turns on the heating and cooling system when the home’s interior hits a certain temperature, a programmable thermostat also lets you determine what times of day the system turns on.

A programmable thermostat utilizes digital technology. It contains a thermistor, which is a type of resistor containing metals that respond to temperature changes. A microcontroller inside the thermostat registers and translates changes in the thermistor to provide a temperature reading on the screen. When it is read by the HVAC system, the preprogrammed settings determine if the heat or air conditioning needs to kick on or stay off.

How to Use Them

To get the most out of your thermostat, program the household wake and sleep times, as well as the times of day when the last family member leaves in the morning and the first arrives home after the workday. Many people like to set the system to turn on 10 or 15 minutes earlier so the home will be sufficiently warm or cool when they wake up, arrive home from work, or turn in for the night.

The Department of Energy recommends programming the temperature to around 68 degrees when people are home and awake during the winter months. Lower it ten degrees when you’re gone for the day or sleeping. In summer, program the thermostat to 78 degrees, and raise it several degrees for those times when you're not at home. Different models come with different setting instructions, so consult the owner's manual for step by step guidance.

The Benefits

A programmable thermostat is an excellent way to custom design comfort levels inside the home. It can also lower the cost of energy bills because the HVAC system will not run indefinitely throughout the day, constantly cycling on and off.

There is also a lot of flexibility that comes with a programmable thermostat. For instance, you can program different days of the week with separate settings based on your schedule, and Wi-Fi enabled devices allow for remote temperature control from cellphone apps.

When you're ready to purchase a programmable thermostat, turn to Dousman LP Gas. This family-owned and -operated business provides HVAC repairs, installations, and sales to customers throughout Dousman, WI. They also offer propane gas delivery and tank installations. Call (262) 965-2679 or visit their website to request a quote.