Choosing a programmable thermostat can reduce your heating and cooling costs by almost 10 percent a year, Energy Star says.
Summer days in Charlottesville get hot. But you can enjoy returning home to a delightfully cool home after work without spending money to run your air conditioner all day.
A programmable thermostat lets you schedule your HVAC system to turn off when you leave for the day and restart just in time to cool the house for your arrival. No more wasting money to cool an empty house!
If you’re ready for the savings and comfort of a programmable thermostat, here’s what to consider.
What type of heating/cooling system do you currently have?
How much scheduling flexibility do you need?
What level of technology are you comfortable with?
Will you use Wi-Fi or remote programming functions?
Can I install a programmable thermostat on my own?
How do I schedule an appointment with Fitch Services in Charlottesville, Va.?
What type of heating/cooling system do you currently have?
Some systems require specially designed programmable thermostats, so it’s critical to be sure you’re choosing a model that pairs with your current heating/cooling units. Considerations may include: the type of heating/cooling system, one- or two-stage systems, voltage, and existing wiring.
How much scheduling flexibility do you need?
When choosing a programable thermostat, you can select from models that offer a 7-day program (a different schedule each day of the week) and 5-2 or 5-1-1 models that provide weekday-weekend schedules. If everyone is out of the house for weekday work hours, a 5-2 or 5-1-1 model may be fine; if everyone is coming and going at different times every day of the week, it’s probably best to go with a 7-day option.
What level of technology are you comfortable with?
Do you want to set the schedule, or let the device ‘learn’ your schedule? There are ‘smart’ devices available that follow a schedule that they learn based on your actual use and preferences. Some of these even pair with your phone and location — allowing them to automatically adjust the temperature when you leave the house!
Will you use Wi-Fi or remote programming functions?
Several models on the market today allow you to adjust the temperature or the schedule from your phone. Some models work with smart-home technologies such as Amazon Echo or Google Home, so you can tell your smart device to adjust the temperature without ever leaving the couch!
Can I install a programmable thermostat on my own?
Depending on the type of heating and cooling system you have, it can be tricky to install a programmable thermostat. Save yourself the hassle and headache by contacting Fitch Services to take care of the installation for you! We’ll also help you choose a programmable thermostat that will work with your current HVAC system and provide the scheduling flexibility you require.
How do I schedule an appointment with Fitch Services in Charlottesville, Va.?
Now’s the time to call us so you can start taking advantage of your new programmable thermostat right away — and all year long.
Call (434) 296-9980 or use our contact form to schedule a convenient appointment with one of our licensed, bonded, and insured technicians.