subject: Programmable Thermostats for the Home [print this page] At times, it isn't easy being greenAt times, it isn't easy being green. Sometimes, it is rather easy. Reducing the temperature in the home by just a few degrees will cut 10 percent off heating bills. This contributes to an average saving a few hundred dollars a year and reduces harmful carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global warming.
Of course, just how low the thermostat is set is a matter of personal choice. What some consider comfortably cool, others will find a bit too chilly. In the winter, start by reducing the temperature by one degree for a week and wearing another layer of clothes. If the home is still comfortable, try dropping the temperature another degree the next week.
A little planning goes a long way. The thermostat can be used at different times throughout the week to save energy and cut greenhouse gases. If the house is empty during the day, turn down the thermostat in the winter and up in the summer. Do the same if everyone is going out in the evening.
There is a common misconception that programming the thermostat for only a few hours is not worthwhile because more energy is then needed to get the home back up to the desired temperature. The truth is that turning the thermostat down will save money and fuel because the central heating will not have to keep the home as warm while no one is home. It will use less energy overall.
When going away for a weekend or on holiday, lower the thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. That will save energy without the risk of returning to frozen water pipes. A bonus is that a little extra will be saved on the refrigerator and freezer, as they will not need to work so hard to stay cool.
The thermostat can be shifted a few degrees overnight and then back to the desired temperature again in the morning. This can cut between five and 10 percent off heating bills. Try to delay an hour or two before turning the thermostat back up in the morning to save even more. The number of people in a home can affect the temperature too, as each person is the equivalent of a 175-watt heater. When entertaining, turn the thermostat down as a large group of people will warm up the home without the heating.
It is easy to forget to turn the thermostat up and down when leading a busy life, so it is wise to invest in a programmable thermostat, which will allow different temperatures to be set throughout the day. Also consider thermostatic radiator valves, which allow the temperature in individual rooms to be controlled. If rooms are not in use, adjust the temperature to save energy.
Make sure the home is properly insulated, so that heat is not being wasted, and when opening windows for some fresh air in the spring, remember to turn down the thermostat.
