Have you fallen for these myths regarding that oh so little, but oh so important instrument called the thermostat? Let's look at some thermostat myths that many think could save money and energy, but are most likely doing the opposite.
Myth: Adjusting your thermostat at night or when you are away does not save money or energy in the long run.
False! The longer your thermostat stays at an adjusted rate the more savings for you. Heating and cooling cost depends mostly on the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature. When you adjust the temperature down in the winter or up in the summer, you reduce this temperature difference. A programmable thermostat is a huge help in this area allowing you to easily set sleep, wake and away times.
Myth: The higher you set the thermostat for heat or the lower you set it for air conditioning, the faster your house will reach this temperature. F
alse! Setting your air to 50° or your heat to 90° will not get you to your desired temperature any faster. Heat pumps and air conditioners deliver heat or conditioned air at the same rate regardless of the thermostat setting. By setting an extreme temperature, you are likely to overshoot your ideal temperature which will make your system work harder in the long run.
Myth: The location of your thermostat is not important.
False! Thermostats are absolutely affected by the surroundings. Thermostats should be placed away from doorways, windows, direct sunlight, drafty areas, appliances, vents, registers and the kitchen. All of these areas can affect the accuracy of the reading by showing the room as being colder or warmer than it actually is. The ideal placement for a thermostat is on an interior wall in the areas of your home where you and your family spend the most time.