Here on the First Coast we experience a longer summer and a short, but definite winter, so making the most of our HVAC systems to minimize energy bills is essential year-round. Consumer Reports estimates that for every degree you raise the thermostat in the summer or lower it in the winter, your energy bill will decrease by two percent. Using a programmable thermostat is the best way to optimize the efficiency of your HVAC system and save some money in the process.

Know Your HVAC Needs:

Do you work outside of your home weekdays? Is your weekend schedule different from your weekdays? Programmable thermostats can usually store multiple-day settings so that it runs less on the days you're out of the house for hours or when you're asleep. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star program suggests one of three models: 7-day, 5+2-day or 5+1+1-day. You can store different HVAC schedules for weekdays and Saturdays and Sundays.

Increase Your Thermostat's Efficiency:

• When installing the thermostat, keep it away from vents, open doorways and appliances that create heat. This prevents it from accounting for drafts and HVAC cycling which can result in "ghost readings."
• Don't override the settings because your energy bill will increase the more you do.
• Does your house have zoned air conditioning? If so, install a programmable thermostat in every zone for better control.
• If your thermostat has batteries, change them at least once a year.

Programmable thermostats are one of the most efficient ways to make use of your HVAC system, keep your house cool and cut your energy bills. To learn more about how you can install a programmable thermostat in your home, call David Gray Heating & Air at (904) 467-0784 or visit us at davidgrayheatingandair.com