During the cold months in the Woodbridge, Virginia, area, you might be tempted to crank up the heat to stay warm. Not only will that increase your utility bills, it may also compromise your comfort. Save energy and keep warm all winter by taking advantage of these four ways to make the most of your smart thermostat.
Dial Back the Heat During the Day
When you first set your programmable or smart thermostat, consider your family’s schedule. If everyone is generally away from home during the day for school or work, dial back the heat while everyone is out. For meaningful savings on your heating bill, turn down the heat by 10 to 15 degrees for at least eight hours.
Bundle Up at Night
At night, use a similar strategy. Decrease the overall temperature by as much as 15 degrees overnight, and set your thermostat to 56 degrees. Your family will stay warm as long as you dress appropriately and bundle up with adequate blankets. For optimal comfort, be sure to program the thermostat to return your home to a comfortable 68 degrees shortly before the family awakens.
Heat Only the Rooms You Use
If your family tends to congregate in only a few rooms, you can save even more energy by heating only the rooms you use most. Instead of closing off air vents, install zoning systems for your existing HVAC unit. Program the appropriate thermostat according to activity level for each zone, and maximize your energy savings. Another very effective alternative is to use space heaters. Space heaters provide effective heating, and allow you to save energy by heating only the areas needed.
Use Manual Mode Sparingly
With a smart thermostat, you’ll want to rely on programming as much as possible to maintain a comfortable temperature and save energy. Adjust the temperature remotely only when necessary. However, if you notice you use manual mode frequently, consider modifying the temperature settings to improve your comfort level.
Ready to take the plunge and install a programmable thermostat in your Woodbridge home? Contact Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning today at 703-491-2771 to learn more about how we can optimize your heating system.
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