Your home’s thermostat, now called a controller, is the brains of your comfort system. Modern controllers (thermostats) provide countless bits of information to help you achieve ultimate comfort. Many controllers work with smart phones to give you real time control over your home’s comfort. Lifestyle Comfort Solutions suggests ways to keep your thermostat, or controller, working efficiently.
Try a 2 Degree Offset
If you have two thermostats, or a modern model with more than one zone setting, set the temperatures to a 2 degree off-set. For example, downstairs at 72 degrees, and upstairs at 74 degrees. A two degree offset helps with uneven temperatures.
Keep Air Filters Clean
Controlling debris building up on your filters aids air flow. Controlling debris protects against overheating and continual shut off. The most common cause of HVAC breakdown is a dirty filter. While your thermostat may call for heating/cooling, a dirty filter may slow down the unit’s response. Change air filters according to manufacturer directions.
Keep the Controller away from Electronic Equipment
Electronic equipment creates a lot of heat. Your thermostat may respond to today’s large screen TVs and powerful computers, sending false information to your HVAC system.
Consider the Location of the Controller
Install controllers away from direct sunlight. Consider shadows cast on the controller by window coverings. Don’t install a thermostat directly above an air register. Prevent airflow restrictions. Do no cover registers with furniture or items which restrict air flow. Vents need about 18 inches of space for proper air flow.
Place Thermostat Fan Setting to “ON”
Your fan setting impacts your indoor air quality and comfort. Most systems have two settings: ON and AUTO. The ON setting may increase your utility bill slightly, but you enjoy air which is continuously moving. Stagnant air is refreshed more often when the thermostat is set to ON.
