(NAPSA)—Programmable thermostats can help homeowners conserve energy and reduceutility costs but only if they are selected, installed and used properly. To help realize the potential savings that come with this technology, it’s a good idea to keep the following tips in mind: Thermostat Basics Narrow your search to a thermostat that’s compatible with the heating and cooling system installed in your home. Choose one that will work for those whouse it. Some havetraditional push buttons while more advanced models feature intuitive touch screens for quick and clear navigation. *Consider a Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat, such as the Luxaire Acclimate” Residential Communicating Control, which will allow you to control the temperature in your home, even when you’re away. Programming Options Choose from four standard models, each of which offers a dis- tinctive schedulingstyle: 7-day programming: a flexible option that meets the heating/ cooling needs of homeowners with erratic schedules by allowing them to set seven different schedules 5-1-1 programming: allows you to set one heating/cooling schedule for the week and two different plans for Saturday and Sunday 5-2 programming: same as 51-1 except Saturday and Sunday have the same plan 1-week programming: allows you to set one heating/cooling plan that will be repeated daily for the entire week. Set energy-saving tempera- ture levels based on the habits in your household. Standard models offer four daily temperature changes, although models offering six or more settings are available. Consider programmingthe ther- mostat for a comfortable temperature when you wake up, an energy-saving temperature for when you’re at work, a comfortable temperature when you’re home and another for when you’re asleep. Ideally, a temperature change should remain at that temperature for at least eight hours to take full advantage of potential energy savings. Installation and Usage Tips *Install the thermostat on an interior wall, away from drafts and supply registers, heat-generating appliances, skylights, fireplaces, windowsand doorways. *Follow the manufacturer’s directions for installation, or ask your heating, ventilation and airconditioning (HVAC) contractor to do the installation. Think about using multiple thermostats to take advantage of zoned heating and cooling and Maximize energy savings. * Use the permanent “hold”set- ting to save energy when you are on vacation or to override preprogrammed settings. However, consider changing your settings when you find you’re using the hold feature too often. *Change the batteries in the thermostat annually. Some thermostats offer prompts for this as well as changing filters and scheduling maintenance for your heating/cooling system. To learn more about programmable thermostats and their potential impact on energy sav- ings, visit www.luxaire.com, orfollow on YouTube and @Luxaire HVAC on Twitter.
