According to the United Sates Environmental Protection Agency, proper use of a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 a year in energy costs.  That’s not too shabby, and considering energy costs seem to go up every year, one can assume that the dollar amount that you save will go up every year.

The the catch?  Reread the first sentence.

Note that it says “proper use” will yield a cost savings.  Just plugging a programmable thermostat onto your wall won’t yield any benefits if you use it the same as a traditional thermostat.  Here are the keys to proper use of a programmable thermostat as lined out by the EPA:

• Install your thermostat away from registers, appliances, lighting, doorways, fireplaces, skylights and windows, and areas that receive direct sunlight or drafts.  Interior walls are best.
• Keep the thermostat set at energy saving temperatures for long periods of time, such as during the day when no one is home and at bedtime.
• Set the “hold” button at a constant energy-saving temperature when going away for the weekend or on vacation.
• Resist the urge to override the pre-programmed settings.  Every time you do, you use more energy and may end up paying more on your energy bill.
• Use a programmable thermostat for each zone of your house if you have multiple heating and cooling zones.  This will help you maximize comfort, convenience, and energy savings throughout the house.
• Change your batteries each year if your programmable thermostat runs on batteries.  Some units will indicate when batteries  must be changed.

If you already have a programmable thermostat and you’re not following the above guidelines … start now!  If you’re in a house without a programmable thermostat and you’re interested in getting one, give us a call.  We can have one put in today and you’ll start saving money right away!

To read more about how to efficiently heat and cool your home check out this guide written by the EPA – http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/publications/pubdocs/HeatingCoolingGuide%20FINAL_9-4-09.pdf