There are a lot of conflicting messages about how to keep your energy bill low while strategically using your thermostat. Heating and cooling your home is your largest energy usage and keeping your bill under control requires knowing how to work with the thermostat to keep your home comfortable while protecting your wallet from large, unexpected expenditures. Here are some of the myths and facts about using your thermostat.
Myth: Lower Temps Cool Quicker
If your home feels too warm, cranking the thermostat down won't cool it faster. The same is true in the opposite direction. Turning the thermostat up to 90 degrees won't heat your home any faster. It will, however, cause your bill to increase quickly.
Myth: Constant Adjustments Are Okay
The biggest problem is that constant adjustments to a thermostat creates high energy bills. Manual thermostats aren't meant to be moved from higher to lower temperatures multiple times. In fact, the purpose of a thermostat is to keep the home at a constant temperature. Changing it often limits its effectiveness. If you feel that you need to adjust the thermostat more often, using a programmable thermostat will help you keep the energy bill down.
Myth: Any Thermostat Will Do
If you do decide to change your manual thermostat for a programmable one, it's important that you get one that works with your HVAC system. Not all thermostats work well with all HVAC systems. Consulting with a professional about your needs and knowing the specs of your system can help you find the right thermostat. If you notice that your home isn't comfortable, or your HVAC isn't working the way it should, it may be that the thermostat isn't right for the system.
Fact: A Few Degrees Warmer
Chances are you won't feel a difference in comfort level if you keep your house a few degrees warmer in the summer and a few degrees cooler in the winter. However, your energy usage will significantly decrease and your bills will too.
Fact: DIY Solutions Aren't Recommended
Unless you're an expert in HVAC systems, you shouldn't work on your home's HVAC. When you work on the HVAC system as an amateur, you may miss some important guidelines and information that professionals have at their fingertips. You could also void the warranty on your system and the parts you install. In the end, there's a good chance that you doing the job yourself could actually end up costing more in the long run. Calling someone who knows heating repair in Pittsburgh, PA, ensures that you get the right repair at the right time. They can keep your HVAC running efficiently. For help with your HVAC, contact Stahl Plumbing, and schedule an appointment.