Programmable Thermostats | Air Conditioning Installation
Programmable Thermostat | Air Conditioning Installation
If you are looking for ways to save money on your heating and air conditioning energy bill, a programmable thermostat will provide energy savings. Whether you need a new thermostat with a new heating and air conditioning installation, are looking for ways to save on energy costs, or simply would like a new reliable thermostat for an existing HVAC system, there’s an option just right for you.
Remembering to adjust the thermostat is often overlooked. Oversleeping and rushing off to work, receiving a phone call just as you are preparing to leave, helping a child find the misplaced homework, all of these can lead you to forget to adjust the thermostat.
If this sounds like your household, your home and budget will benefit from a programmable thermostat. You can adjust the time the heating or air-conditioning will cut on according to a pre-set programmed schedule. Once set, the thermostat will repeat multiple daily settings that can be manually overridden without affecting the rest of the daily or weekly program. When installed in conjunction with a new, energy efficient heating and air conditioning installation the savings can be significant.
Until recently, programmable thermostats were not recommended for heat pumps. Those who wanted the energy efficiency of a heat pump were required to install a conventional mechanical or non-programmable thermostat when a new heating and air conditioning installation was provided. In its cooling mode, a heat pump operates similar to an air conditioner, so turning up the thermostat will save energy and money. However, when a heat pump is in heating mode, setting back the thermostat can cause the unit’s energy efficiency to be reduced. Maintaining a moderate setting is the most cost-effective practice, and previously was the heat pump owner’s only realistic option.
Thankfully, this is changing with the introduction of programmable thermostats designed especially for the heat pump, maintaining their cost-effectiveness for heating. The newly designed thermostats typically utilize special algorithms to minimize the use of backup electric resistance heat systems. Those who have wanted the energy efficiency of a heat pump and the convenience of a programmable thermostat, can now have both when they combine a new heating and air conditioning installation with a programmable thermostat for heat pumps.
When selecting a thermostat you will have to ensure it is compatible with your heating and air conditioning system. Programmable thermostats can be installed at any time, but when providing a new heating and air conditioning installation installing a programmable thermostat may be especially beneficial.
Thermostat Types
Learning Thermostat
- Learning thermostats are programmable, but don’t require you to actually program them. They learn as you use them based on your preferences and create a schedule. They adjust the temperature when you’re away, guide you to energy-efficient settings and provide monthly energy reports. Learning thermostats connect to your home Wi-Fi network and can be monitored, set and remotely managed over Wi-Fi from a computer, smartphone or tablet. They are rapidly gaining popularity with new heating and air conditioning installation.
Remote Energy Management
- A remote energy management thermostat enables you to set, program and monitor your heating and cooling system from a computer, smartphone or tablet. The thermostat connects through an optional hub to your home broadband network, allowing you to access it over Wi-Fi from any location.
Programmable
- A programmable thermostat efficiently controls your system. The thermostat automatically controls temperature based on the schedule you provide. A growing number of homeowners are taking advantage of the benefits of programmable thermostats when updating or replacing with a new heating and air conditioning installation.
Programmable Thermostat Day Options
7-Day: This option enables you to program a pre-set schedule for each day, typically offering up to four adjustments per day for each day of the week. This thermostat provides an excellent choice for families with busy schedules.
5-1-1 Day: This thermostat enables you to set one program for the weekdays and different programs for Saturday and Sunday. This thermostat can be programmed for up to four adjustments.
5-2 Day: This thermostat enables you to program up to four adjustments with separate settings for the weekdays and the weekend.
1 Week: This thermostat enables you to program up to four adjustments for the entire week.
Digital Non-Programmable: The digital non-programmable thermostat is simple to operate, economical and provides an excellent choice for those who prefer manual operation with a digital LCD readout.
Mechanical: A mechanical or manual thermostat allows you to control the temperature setting manually. These are best for people who are home often and prefer a fixed tem-perature.
The thermostat’s location can affect its performance and efficiency. For proper operation, the thermostat should be located on an interior wall away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, skylights, appliances and windows. Don’t place furniture or other furnishings in front of or below your thermostat to avoid inefficient operation of the system. This includes heat producing appliances, such as a TV for example. The thermostat should be conveniently located for programming. Familiarize yourself by reading the manufacturer’s homeowners guide or instructions.
Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers certified HVAC technicians with the expertise for superior service for all of your HVAC needs. If you’re interested in having a programmable thermostat installed in your home for your existing HVAC system, or in conjunction with a new heating and air conditioning installation give us a call. Thanks for visiting Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning.
