Misusing your thermostat can overwork your system, leaving you in need of heating repair. Let’s debunk some common myths about HVAC thermostats that homeowners in Elmore, AL, can benefit from.
Myth 1: The Higher You Raise the Temperature, the Faster the House Will Heat Up
Cranking your unit to a super-high 90 degrees will not heat your home any faster. However, it’ll increase your bill faster. Air conditioners and heaters expel the same amount of conditioned air, regardless of the thermostat setting.
The determining factor is not how low or high you set the thermostat, but how long it takes to reach the set temperature. You shouldn’t close your vents to heat up the room faster because it will upset the balance of your system and cause pressure problems.
Myth 2: You Can Place Your Thermostat Anywhere in the House
The immediate environment can significantly affect thermostat readings. Therefore, when replacing an existing thermostat or installing a new one, place it away from heat-generating appliances and vents. Ideally, your thermostat should be in a central location that requires optimal comfort control.
Myth 3: Adjusting the Temperature Will Increase Your Bill
This is a common assumption, convincing homeowners that adjusting the temperature will make the system work harder and increase the energy bill. The truth is that during cold weather, turning your thermostat down by up to 10 degrees while people are sleeping and maintaining it at 68 degrees when people are awake and at home can save energy.
Myth 4: If Your House Isn’t Stabilizing to a Comfortable Temperature, the Thermostat Is Broken
More often than not, the thermostat isn’t to blame when your home isn’t heating to the desired temperature. Instead, there could be a problem with your ductwork or the issue could be with the cooling or heating system. Other possible contributors include:
- Gaps in the doors or window.s
- Dirt or dust within the thermostat.
- Incorrect thermostat settings.
Myth 5: No Home Requires More Than One Thermostat
Perhaps surprisingly, this is false—even smaller homes can have multiple thermostats. For example, homeowners can set up thermostats in upstairs bedrooms and downstairs living spaces. Therefore, the size of your home does not determine how many thermostats you need.
Myth 6: Changing Your Thermostat A Degree or Two Doesn’t Affect Your Wallet
Moving your thermostat from lower to higher temperatures numerous times limits their effectiveness. It can also increase your bill when it consumes more energy to reach your desired temperature.
You can use a programmable thermostat if you feel the need to adjust the thermostat more often. It will lower your energy bill, but only when you use it correctly.
Ensure you program the thermostat based on the current season and your schedule. During winter months you should set your thermostat to at least 10 degrees at night when everyone is sleeping. Program it to 68 for the hours you’re awake at home.
Myth 7: Turning Off Your HVAC System When You Are Not Home Will Reduce Your Energy Bill
Switching off your unit completely and then switching it back on means it will work harder to warm your home to a comfortable level. The result is high energy consumption, which translates to higher utility bills.
Most importantly, watch out for signs that your thermostat needs servicing. Thermostats are like everything else mechanical; they need replacement. Perhaps yours is old and needs an update or may be malfunctioning. Temperature swings throughout your home are indicators that you need to replace your thermostat promptly.
Air Conditioning by Luquire has been a trusted HVAC service provider in Elmore, AL, for decades. Contact us today to schedule your next HVAC service.
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