Programming your thermostat can significantly cut energy bills while maintaining home comfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get the most out of your thermostat, whether it’s programmable or smart.

1. Understand Your Schedule

• Thermostat Types:
• Daily (7-day): Different settings for each day of the week.
• Weekly: Same schedule every day.
• Weekday/Weekend (5/2 or 5/1/1): Separate settings for weekdays and weekends.
• Preparation: Write down your family’s routine—when you wake up, leave, return home, and go to bed each day.

2. Select Temperature Settings

• Identify temperature "set points" for:
• Home: When people are active in the house.
• Away: When the house is empty.
• Sleep: Nighttime.
• Energy Star Recommendations:
• Adjust temperatures 7–10°F higher or lower than the “home” setting depending on the season:
  • Winter (heating): Keep “home” at 68°F, lower for “away” and “sleep.”
  • Summer (cooling): Set your air conditioning as high as is comfortable, higher when away.

3. Build the Schedule in the Thermostat

• For Programmable Thermostats:
• Check the manual for accessing the scheduling feature (search online if misplaced).
• Program each day’s schedule: Input time and temperature for each period (e.g., “home,” “away,” “sleep”).
• Example Day:
  • 6:30 a.m. (Home): 68°F
  • 9:00 a.m. (Away): 60°F
  • 5:00 p.m. (Home): 68°F
  • 10:00 p.m. (Sleep): 60°F

• Copy schedules across multiple days if allowed.

• For Smart Thermostats:

• Use the app’s schedule builder to input times and temperatures.
• Adjust as needed for season changes.

4. Activate the Schedule

• Look for an "Enable Schedule" button to activate the settings.
• If your thermostat displays "Hold", press the button to deactivate the current hold and let the schedule take over.

Benefits of Proper Programming

• Savings: Adjusting by just 7–10°F for 8 hours/day can save up to 10% on annual energy bills.
• Convenience: Smart thermostats automate comfort based on your schedule and preferences.

Top Picks for Thermostats

• Programmable Thermostats: Offer 7-day programming for up to four temperature changes daily. More flexible than 5/2 or 5/1/1 models.
• Smart Thermostats: Learn your habits via motion sensors and geo-fencing for precise, automated adjustments. Great models are available for under $200.

With a well-programmed thermostat, you’re set to enjoy lower bills and a more efficient, comfortable home!

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