The Department of Energy recommends advanced thermostat control for all homes because it can reduce annual heating costs by up to 8% through scheduling alone. Smart thermostats often have additional features that can help you save even more. Let’s explore the top tips that will help you improve those savings and the overall performance of your heating system.
Update Your Thermostat Firmware and Software
The modern thermostat is essentially a mini computer with firmware to regulate the main control board and software to facilitate scheduling and other advanced features. Many thermostat manufacturers continue to refine that software over time. If your thermostat supports automatic updating, enabling that feature will ensure the device is always current. Otherwise, we recommend checking for updates monthly and installing them as needed.
Reassess Your Winter Schedule
Much of the savings a smart thermostat provides is through scheduling. Consider all the money you can save by dropping your temperature setting just a few degrees while you’re sleeping or away at work. A common mistake homeowners make is not updating their thermostat schedule. If your thermostat has a learning mode, enable it. Otherwise, early fall is an excellent time to look at the programming and adjust it as necessary.
Ensure You Get an Accurate Reading
Your thermostat should be centrally located and free of obstructions. Avoid clutter around it, and never run appliances near it. Prevent direct sunlight reaching it as well. If that’s difficult to do, ask an HVAC technician to move the thermostat to a better location.
Take Advantage of Advanced Features
Many smart thermostats have energy-saving features beyond just scheduling that can save you money, improve the system’s energy efficiency, and prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Some thermostats have geofencing that can eliminate the need for a strict schedule. Vacation mode, which you can activate remotely, can make a big difference when away from home for extended periods. Some smart devices also have a rate awareness mode that lets the thermostat automatically adjust by several degrees during periods of peak energy rates.
Schedule Fall Heating Maintenance
HVAC experts recommend scheduling a heating tune-up annually in the fall before needing to run your heating systems. During that appointment, a technician will clean your thermostat, including the contacts under the faceplate. Your technician will also evaluate the temperature reading and calibrate the thermostat if necessary.
Avoid Big Temperature Changes
The highest energy usage and most wear and tear occur when a heating system is achieving a temperature setting. That’s why scheduling should only adjust your temperature by 2 to 3 degrees. Bigger transitions can actually undermine any savings you would have otherwise gained.
For heating installation and replacement or smart thermostat advice in Baton Rouge, LA, call HVAC Essentials today, or contact us online.