During the frigid winter months, heating bills in many homes go through the roof. This winter will be no exception as the U.S. Department of Energy predicts increases in energy prices. Luckily, there are ways homeowners can rein in heating costs.
By properly setting a programmable thermostat, homeowners can reap significant energy savings. However, recent Honeywell research indicates nearly 70 percent of homeowners who own programmable thermostats find them too difficult to operate, and they lose out on energy-saving benefits.
To eliminate this challenge and enhance homeowners’ opportunities for lower energy bills, Honeywell developed a programmable thermostat called Vision that uses touch-screen technology, similar to the technology used in ATMs, to prompt homeowners through the programming process, making programming nearly effortless.
To take full advantage of the energy-saving benefits of programmable thermostats, homeowners should turn their thermostats back 10 to 15 percent for eight hours, while away at work or sleeping at night. This can result in savings of up to 10 percent on annual energy bills.
“Our customers love the Vision series of thermostats; they are easy to use and can be removed from the wall for convenient programming,” says David Kahn of Kahn Air Conditioning, a California-based company that provides heating and cooling solutions to homeowners. “Our customers really appreciate that the Vision thermostats automatically adjust for daylight savings.”
In addition to using a programmable thermostat, follow these U.S. Department of Energy tips for saving energy dollars during the cold winter months:
• Use a programmable thermostat to pre-set lower temperatures when you're sleeping or at work.
• Keep your window coverings open during the day and closed at night.
• Test your home for air leaks, particularly at doors and windows to prevent heated air from escaping. Weatherize those that are leaky.
• Install tight-fitting, insulating window shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.
