Choosing a Programmable Thermostat

Choosing a programmable thermostat depends on your budget, your current style of house, and how much control you want to give the device. Find out what you need to know and what kinds are available below and definitely would be better than choosing an electric space heater.

Most homes have a manual adjusting thermostat where you move a lever to a certain temperature and if the temperature in the house rises or falls above or below the setting, then the furnace or air conditioner kicks on to reach that initial setting. One downside is that homeowners tend to raise or lower the setting based on how their body feels. This could possibly raise your electric or gas bill because the amount of time your furnace stays on can decrease if you choose a programmable thermostat.

Programmable thermostats adjust temperatures for you. You “program” the device the first time and let the microprocessors and sensors do all the work. Keeping heating and cooling at adequate levels reduce the need for humidifiers or dehumidifiers.

Some types of thermostats range from $25-$75 if you want basic programming functions or advanced functions.

• Electromagnetic thermostats are excellent for first-timers. If your schedule doesn’t change much during the week this type fits those who may not need to change the settings every day. The electromagnetic thermostats work with most types of heating and cooling systems. Some of the controls are still manual, like turning the automatic fan on and off and if you want the thermostat to turn on the heat or the cool air when necessary.
• Digital thermostats can be harder to program than other types, but they offer more control of scheduling if you are on the go at different times during the day or week. These types of thermostats have an display where you can monitor everything from the time, the temperature, and why it may turn on (night, day, afternoon, etc.) ‘’’NOTE: make sure you learn how to program the device before you fully install it because you may not be saving money if you’re not setting it right and keep up with it.
• Hybrid thermostats are useful if you aren’t sure what type of heating or cooling system you have. Because they are a hybrid of the electromagnetic and digital thermostats, they work with almost all types of systems. Hybrids typically are on the higher end of the price scale.

Fancier devices include:

• Occupancy thermostats are simple in that you press a button to turn activate the device and then a button to tell the unit how long you want it on. This type is good for rooms that are unoccupied for long periods of time or if there will be crowds of people in the room for long period of time.
• Light-sensing thermostats have a photocell embedded inside which tells it to lower comfort settings if the lights decrease and raise the comfort settings if an increase in lighting is detected. Choosing a programmable thermostat with light sensing technology will mainly be determined by your budget. These units can go for $200-$300, but offer better chances at lowering your heating bill. You will find light sensing thermostats in offices and buildings.

Some questions to ask yourself so you have the knowledge you need before heading to the hardware store.

1. Will a programmable thermostat be compatible with your electric wiring?
2. Can you install it yourself? Spending a few dollars to have a professional install it may save you headaches in the long run.
3. Will the thermostat be placed in a convenient location as well as away from atmospheric conditions that might turn it on accidentally? You don’t want a thermostat placed near doors or windows.
4. Depending on who is in your household, will everyone be able to program the unit if needed? If you have many people going in and out due to vastly varying schedules ensuring everyone can program it will help keep your cost reasonable. Choosing a programmable thermostat that even a 6-year-old can use will be invaluable.

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