A smart thermostat with the Energy Star label could save anywhere from 8% to 20% on heating and cooling costs. However, you need to utilize all of its features to get maximum value.

Use the following smart thermostat tips to get more bang for your buck.

Set a Schedule

Right after installation, program your thermostat based on the season, your typical work week, and bedtime. This is easily done using the online interface or touch screen display.

For optimal results, program three or four reset periods lasting six or eight hours. Consider the best temperature for a good night’s sleep and the hours when no one is at home. You may have to tweak the controls a bit at first, but the thermostat will start to track your schedule and self-adjust accordingly.

Don’t Tamper With it Too Much

Break the habit of manually adjusting the thermostat. Again, it’s called “smart” because it’s designed to adjust automatically to your lifestyle and routines. If you constantly fiddle with the temperature when you’re too hot or too cold, you’ll confuse the poor thing. Allow it a learning curve.

Also, the system will cycle on and off more often. That not only wastes energy and money, but it shortens the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.

If you frequently find yourself uncomfortable, adjust the schedule rather than the temperature.

Take Advantage of Remote Access

Remote access distinguishes smart thermostats from traditional ones, and it may be their most popular feature. Just connect the thermostat to a router or wireless gateway, and download the remote access app.

Here are some of the benefits:

If you’re going to be out longer than you thought, you can adjust the temperature to save energy and reset it to the desired temperature when you’re on your way home.
Are thermostat wars common at your house? Remotely lockout interfering family members.
You can receive alerts to unusual temperature fluctuations. A window accidentally left open, for example, might trigger an alert. That both wastes energy and potentially attracts burglars.

You’ll also get alerts when your heating or cooling system malfunctions.

Get Regular Reports

Smart thermostats collect data on your system’s performance as well as your own. You can track and compare your heating and cooling behaviors from week to week or over longer periods. The energy history will expose bad habits that are costing you money.

Trust us. Your investment in a smart thermostat will start paying off right away. To learn more, call AWS Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at (516) 217-2196.