A programmable thermostat is one of the best investments for your home.  Spending a small amount of money can lead to significant energy and cost savings. 

But how should you program your thermostat to get the most bang for your buck?

Creating a heating schedule based on your family’s routine is the first step to enjoying the benefits of a programmable thermostat.  Why pay to heat the home when no one’s there?  If the house is empty for several hours a day, set the heat to run at a lower temperature.  You can program the heat to climb shortly before you return home.

Consistency in the level of heating also provides savings.  Instead of waiting until it gets extremely cold, a programmable thermostat allows you to heat your home at a consistent level throughout differing outside temperatures.  Your home stays at the same comfortable temperature, without your furnace having to work overtime when the temperature drops.

Creating a comfortable sleeping environment without having to manually adjust your thermostat every night is also a benefit.  Program your thermostat to lower the heat before you go to bed, and schedule it to heat up shortly before you wake up.  Not only will this make your night’s sleep more pleasant, but you will also save on heating costs throughout the night.

Programmable thermostats can help maintain optimal temperatures in all parts of your home if you utilize different climate zones.  Different areas in your home heat or cool differently.  By placing thermostats in each of those areas, you can program the ideal temperature for the area and avoid overheating (and hence overpaying).

You may even be able to program your thermostat from your smartphone.  The newer versions of programmable thermostats sync using Wi-Fi with your devices so you’re able to control the temperature from wherever you’re at…in the house, running errands, or even on vacation!  If you’re traveling and discover the weather at home is unseasonably warm or cold, you can adjust the temperature inside your home and avoid overpaying on your utility bill.

Programmable thermostats not only give you more control over the comfort level in your home but can also lower the cost of your monthly energy bill.