7-Day Programmable Thermostats

Posted by Kelly Smith Jul 20, 2008

I wrote an article some time ago about troubleshooting and tuning up your thermostat. Proper operation is always important. But sometimes you can do much better than just having proper operation. I always say that lowering energy bills isn't one big thing, it's a grab bag of a lot of little things.

Menu-Driven Touch Screens

Installing a 7-day programmable thermostat is a prime example. Using the menu-driven touch screen makes it a snap to control your central air conditioner and heater, four periods a day, seven days a week. Different days, different settings.

The ones I looked at were Honeywell thermostats. For one thing, that's the kind I have and it's operated flawlessly for over ten years. Secondly, they're the leader in the industry. Can't argue with success.

Thermostat Pricing

One thing, they ain't cheap. But at $120 or so they're still a bargain. You'll be saving on your utility bills beginning right away, and from here on out you'll be money ahead.

Cheaper models are available. Hunter makes one without all the bells and whistles for around half of what the Honeywell runs.

Look for the Energy Star

Ah yes, you knew it was coming. If you want to save money in the long run, it's got to be Energy Star appliances. Whether you buy into the global warming thing and spend your spare time camping out in the tree tops or not, saving money is still saving money.

And What'll you do with all that extra cash? As Tim Allen would say, "More tools, more tools!"