How does a Programmable Thermostat Work?

A programmable thermostat precisely controls the two systems in your home that use the most energy, your heating system and air conditioner. A programmable thermostat, when properly configured, can save money and energy when heating and cooling your home.

Modern digital thermostats offer a variety of extra features, such as voice command activation and access via a smartphone or other Internet-connected device. However, a basic, no-frills programmable digital thermostat generally costs $50 or under at your local home improvement store. With this small investment, you can save energy during both the heating and cooling seasons, saving you money as well.

The Inner Workings of a Digital Thermostat

The programmable digital thermostat measures room temperature with a resistor known as a “thermistor.” The resistance of the metals in the thermistor change with ambient temperature changes. The digital thermostat utilizes a microcontroller to translate the resistance change into a digital temperature reading that is displayed on the thermometer’s screen.

Programming the Digital Thermostat

Most programmable thermostats support programming the device for a full seven-day week. You can program the device to keep your home at a certain temperature during the day, and another setting at night. This functionality is useful for setting the heat setting a bit higher in the day, and then turning down the heat during the night, when the household is sleeping. The device can be programmed to warm up the house just before everyone wakes up in the morning.

Digital thermostats are also handy for saving on air conditioning costs in the summer. Program the thermostat to raise the temperature to 84 or 85 degrees during the day, when everyone is at work or school. Set the thermostat to cool the living area down just before everyone arrives home in the evening.

Homeowners who use digital thermostats can analyze the habits of the household to effectively program the device to save money and energy. Consider the family’s routine to identify times when the temperature can be set to conserve energy without sacrificing comfort.

Going on Vacation? Save Money While You’re Having Fun

These thermostats may also be programmed to save money and energy when the home will be vacant over an extended period of time. Simply program the device to keep the home at a temperature that will conserve energy and money.

When used properly, digital thermostats can save hundreds of dollars in annual energy costs. If you have questions about digital thermostats, your local heating and air conditioning specialist will be happy to offer answers.

Need Help With Your Digital Thermostat?

Call All Temp Co Air Conditioning and Heating if you need assistance selecting, installing or programming your digital thermostat. We provide Concord NC residents and businesses with comprehensive HVAC sales and service. We take pride in our community service and provide total customer satisfaction for our friends and neighbors. Please give us a call for more information.