The change in seasons is one of the primary reasons many residents invest in a new HVAC system, including those in Bluffton, SC. It can be hot or cold, depending on the time of year. Cost-conscious homeowners can further reduce energy consumption by using thermostats. In this post, we’ll debunk the most common thermostat myths and state the facts behind them.
It Doesn’t Matter Where You Place Your Thermostat
Thermostats are highly sensitive to ambient temperatures. They sense even the slightest shift, sending signals to the air conditioner to correct and maintain preferred settings. Hence why the location has a significant influence on the performance of your AC.
It’s paramount that your thermostat is away from direct sunlight, heat-generating appliances, supply ducts, etc. These areas are likely to create false readings and trigger incorrect temperature adjustments.
If you install your thermostat behind a door, furniture, or bookshelves, it can also cause inaccurate readings. Typically, these areas block air circulation and lead to ghost readings. Place this device in an area where air naturally circulates.
If you’re using a smart thermostat, ensure you place it within range of Wi-Fi. It will be easier for your thermostat to adjust accordingly based on real-time readings.
The wrong placement can make your HVAC system run longer or insufficiently. Consequently, it increases wear and tear, uneven cooling, heating, and energy waste. You might also be faced with a replacement sooner than expected.
You Don’t Need More Than One Thermostat
Having more than one thermostat helps improve your home’s heating and cooling efficiency. If some areas aren’t comfortable, purchase an additional thermostat.
Different rooms in your home serve different purposes and have additional heating and cooling requirements. For example, perhaps a cooler temperature is something you prefer while working from home, while you like to sleep in a warmer environment .
Subdividing different areas of your home into zones will help you control and optimize comfort. Each zone requires a separate thermostat for customized settings and significant savings. Hence, it’s a myth that one thermostat is sufficient for all your home’s needs.
Cranking Helps to Achieve Desired Temperatures Faster
There’s an intriguing temptation of cranking the thermostat lower or higher upon entry into a hot or chilly home. Yet, modern HVAC systems evenly cool and heat homes at a consistent rate.
Typically, no matter the settings, your HVAC system will operate at a constant speed and generate the same amount of heat or coolness. Cranking the thermostat to an extreme temperature consumes more energy without meeting your desired comfort requirements. As a rule of thumb, set it to your preferred level and wait for the system to achieve the desired settings.
Your Thermostat Is Faulty If Temperatures Don’t Stabilize
Many people assume they have a malfunctioning thermostat when temperatures fail to stabilize. While a faulty thermostat can cause this anomaly, it’s not always responsible.
Improper insulation, leaky ducts, and tiny cracks in your home could be the reason for temperature fluctuations. Before you make a wrong move, schedule a visit with a qualified HVAC company. An experienced technician will perform a thorough inspection to determine the actual cause of the leaks.
Installing a Programmable Thermostat Means Automatic Savings
It’s not necessarily true that installing a programmable thermostat will bring automatic energy savings. However, it will reduce the load on your system, lessen the need for emergency repairs and prolong its lifespan. Turning the temperature back 7-10 degrees for a few hours a day can save you up to 10% annually on heating and cooling bills.
There’s no doubt that thermostats are essential for more control, savings, and better home comfort. Our Byrd Heating and Air Conditioning team specializes in temperature control systems for every room in your home. All you need to do is reach out and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation. A team member will drop by and give you plenty of information on customized home heating and cooling solutions.
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