Changing the Factory Settings
Your programmable thermostat is installed with the default factory settings. If you don’t change these settings, you’ll have to turn on your AC the old-fashioned way: manually.
This is risky. Have you ever forgot to turn the thermostat down or off before leaving for the day? You just wasted a lot of money needlessly cooling an unoccupied house.
That’s why you should use the thermostat settings to create a schedule around your everyday routine, taking into account your wake time, sleep time, and typical work week.
When to Use 5-1-1 Programming
The 5-1-1 setting assumes that you maintain the same schedule five days of the week but still gives you plenty of flexibility on the two days over the weekend. This will allow you to set up one schedule for Saturday when you may want to get up early to take care of tasks around the house and another for Sunday when you may prefer to sleep in longer. This system is ideal for many families with regular jobs.
When to Use 5-2 Programming
The 5-2 option gives you one setting for your five workdays and another setting schedule for the two days of the weekend. Keep in mind that your settings for both Saturday and Sunday will be the same in this case.
When to Use 7-Day Programming
If your schedule is highly irregular, a 7-day programming option will work the best for you. This allows you to set different temperatures and times for every day of the week and will result in your highest level of comfort and cost savings. Not all thermostats have a 7-day programming setting. If yours doesn’t, you might consider upgrading.
Best Temperature Settings for Cost Savings
Your programmable thermostat can save you up to $180 a year in heating and cooling costs. However, to save that much money, you’ll really have to dial in the most cost-effective temperatures.
- The temperature for saving money while you are at home is 78 degrees.
- When you plan to be away from home for more than four hours, turn the thermostat up to 82 degrees or higher. (In fact, you can probably stick with 82 degrees for your sleep schedule setting.)
- Adjust settings to have the air conditioner turn off 30 minutes before you leave home.
- Adjust settings to have the air conditioner turn on 30 minutes before you arrive home.
By finding ways to live with a higher indoor temperature, allowing your home to stay warmer while you’re away, and taking full advantage of all the features that your programmable thermostat offers, you can stay comfortable and save plenty of money during the warmest months of the year.
Contact RR Electric Heating & Air today to find out more about the benefits of a programmable thermostat or to schedule an appointment to have one installed in your home. To schedule your appointment, call.
