Thermostat Settings Explained
Thermostat settings have an impact on your energy consumption and comfort. Therefore, it’s advisable to understand the different modes and configurations. Here is an outline of your thermostat’s ideal settings for heating and cooling.
Heating and Cooling Modes
Typically, a forced-air system thermostat will have one switch with “off”, heating, and cooling modes. When you switch to cool, the air conditioner will only run when interior temperatures are above the thermostat’s settings.
Similarly, when you choose heat, the furnace will only run when temperatures fall below the desired level. The thermostat has connections that can signal the compressor and blower fan to activate.
The mechanism of the heating and air conditioning unit will vary depending on the system, but most devices will have the basic settings for heating and cooling. If your system is not responding, you can change the thermostat’s batteries and restart. Call Nacogdoches Sheet Metal, Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LTD. technicians in Nacogdoches for assistance if it still won’t respond.
The Auto Setting
Other than the heating and cooling modes, the other is the auto setting. It signals the thermostat to change from heating to cooling, and vice versa, automatically. It also keeps the blower fan running depending on the temperature requirements of the room.
Professional HVAC technicians suggest settings of 71 and 78-degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature drops below 71 degrees, the furnace will start heating, and when the temperature goes over 78 degrees, the air conditioner will blow cool air into the room.
The settings you choose will typically depend on your personal preferences. When you’re sleeping, you can turn it down lower to save energy. You could adjust the settings to run between 65 and 75 degrees before you sleep.
Programmable Thermostat for Optimum Home Comfort
Modern thermostats have programmable capabilities. That means you can choose from a wide range of modes. You can also let the device adjust the settings, depending on the weather or your daily routine. Through a Wi-Fi connection, you can check or change configurations from a remote location.
But the primary reason for using a smart thermostat is to optimize comfort and manage power consumption. A programmable thermostat is more precise at regulating temperatures, which cuts down on energy use.
Humidity Control and the Capabilities of Programmable Thermostats
Some programmable thermostats have a built-in humidity control configuration. According to the EPA, indoor humidity levels should be between 30% and 50%. Beyond 55%, your home could succumb to mold, mildew, or other microbial infestations.
In Nacogdoches, humidity is 69% on average but can rise to 90% in the blistering summer. High moisture levels can make your AC work harder to maintain comfort in your home. A dehumidifier boosts the efficiency of your AC, reduces energy consumption, and keeps the interior cool.
Thermostat Location and Its Impact on Temperature Readings
Your thermostat detects interior temperatures to signal the HVAC unit to heat or cool. If the reading on the thermostat is incorrect, it will affect the response of your system. The device can generate inaccurate values due to ambient sources of heat indoors.
During installation, it’s essential to choose a suitable location to avoid influences from external heat sources. The thermostat should not be in direct sunlight because the sun may cause it to read a higher temperature than the rest of the living spaces. The ideal location is away from an exterior wall and closer to the center of the house. Avoid placing it near windows, above air vents, or in hallways.
Thermostat Settings and Your System’s Efficiency
According to the Department of Energy, you can cut down your energy consumption by 10% by lowering the thermostat settings. Reducing it by 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day can yield up to 15% savings.
Therefore, it’s advisable to lower the settings while you’re away from home. An even better approach is to use a smart thermostat that you can track from a portable device. Some systems can generate energy usage reports to help you manage power consumption better. Routine maintenance of your system is also crucial for optimal performance.
Nacogdoches Sheet Metal, Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LTD. is a Lennox Premier Dealer offering a wide range of heating and cooling services in Nacogdoches. Our NATE-certified team has vast experience with different models and brands of equipment. You can trust our staff for dependable air duct cleaning, furnace replacement, and indoor air quality solutions. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about our top-rated services in Nacogdoches.