No matter what time of year it is, it always seems like your utility bills are too high. In the summer when the AC is constantly running you’re facing high electric bills. In the winter, it’s often the natural gas bill that takes it turn to run high. Wondering if there’s anything you can do to get those bills down, and reduce your carbon footprint there as well?
There absolutely is. Learn how the right thermostat can vastly improve your energy efficiency, and discover where to go to get a better, more efficient thermostat installed in your home.
TYPES OF THERMOSTAT
Your thermostat is the central control for your HVAC system. It regulates the way your furnace and air conditioner distribute heat in your house. There are three different general types of thermostat and they will have a direct effect on your energy consumption.
Manual thermostats are the simplest and most time-honored type. They also tend to be the least energy efficient. You move the needle, and your HVAC system works to hold that temperature.
Programmable thermostats are sophisticated units that allow you to create a schedule and have custom settings for every day of the week. You can then reduce energy use when you’re not home, and only use it when you are. This can create a great savings on your energy bills.
Smart thermostats, finally, are wi-fi enabled. This means that you can access and control them from your remote computer, tablet or smartphone. They’re the most high-tech ones out there, and are proven to improve energy efficiency.
YOUR THERMOSTAT AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The first step in choosing the right control for your home is to know the kind of HVAC system you have. Check the voltage of your system, whether it’s a 24v low-voltage system, or a 110v-240v high voltage, direct line system. You might also have a 24 millivolt gas or oil furnace. Each has specific requirements for thermostat and energy efficiency concerns.
It’s also important to know if you have a stage one unit that is either on or off, or a stage two unit that has multi-speed settings. Most thermostats have labels to let you know if your system works with stage one, stage two, direct line, zoned HVAC or other requirements.
CALLING IN THE PROFESSIONALS
If all of these requirements seem confusing for you, you’re not alone. Not everyone is able to determine the specific needs of their system and choose the right equipment for the best relationship between thermostat and energy efficiency. That’s why professional HVAC companies like LEGACY are here.
Whatever kind of HVAC system you have, we can work with you to get the maximum efficiency to drive down your utility bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and keep you comfortable at all times. For more information, give us a call today!
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