Replace a Money Eating Thermostat

by George Karonis

Your old thermostat probably isn’t working too efficiently. If you want to save money on your energy bills, one of the simplest and easiest things you can do is to replace the thermostat. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a new thermostat can reduce your energy bills by as much as 15%. By purchasing an Energy Star rated programmable thermostat, you may be able to save even more money.

How to Replace a Thermostat

  1. Choose a thermostat that is compatible with your home’s HVAC system. By reading the thermostat packaging, you can find one that will work with the type of system you have.
  1. Turn off the power source for your thermostat. This reduces the likelihood of electrocution. Find the circuit breaker or control panel in your home and switch off the power to the thermostat.
  1. Remove the cover of the old thermostat. You may have to unscrew the cover or simply snap it off, depending on the unit. Then slide the unit away from the mounting plate. If there is a wall plate, unscrew it as well. At this point you will see exposed wires.
  1. Take a picture of the wiring so you know how the old thermostat was connected. Then carefully disconnect the wires.
  1. Attach the new mounting plate to the wall and pull all the wires through the plate. Then screw the plate to the wall. Everything you need should be in the packaging.
  1. Connect the wires to the new thermostat using the picture you took as a guide.
  1. Slide the new thermostat onto the mounting plate and make sure it’s securely in place.
  1. Turn the power back on and check if the thermostat is working.

Tips for Saving Money in the Summer

Keep the thermostat at the energy saving temperature settings for at least eight hours each day to maximize efficiency.

Use your programmable thermostat to raise the indoor temperature several degrees when you are out of the house or asleep.

Install a whole house fan to circulate cool air so you can reduce your cooling costs.

Use a programmable thermostat for every heating and cooling zone you have in your house to maximize efficiency.

Don’t put the thermostat at very low temperatures such as 35 degrees to cool the house faster. It won’t work

By replacing your old thermostat with a programmable unit, you can make your home more comfortable while also reducing your energy bills.

Sources
http://www.homeselfe.com/how-to-replace-a-thermostat-thats-losing-you-money/

http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2011/03/21/do-programmable-thermostats-really-save-money/

https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_cooling/programmable_thermostats/proper_use_guidelines

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