Installing A Programmable Thermostat

With the right thermostat, you can save money on your home's heating and air conditioning bills by 15%!  The great thing about these types of thermostats is it will automatically keep the temperature at a controlled level when you're home and can switch to an energy-saving level when you're away.  You can purchase these thermostats at a home improvement store such as Home Depot or Lowes for $25-100.  There are higher priced models that you can actually program from your phone that are priced over $200.

Programmable thermostats will work with most gas or oil furnaces and central air conditioners.  If you are looking to control heat pumps or electric baseboard heaters, these will not work.  It is important to read the packaging (the fine print) to make sure the thermostat will work with the device you're trying to control.  If you are unsure, call a local HVAC company and they will be able to help you out.  They may even be able to offer you a programmable thermostat at a discount.

If you are trying to install a new thermostat, follow these easy steps:

Step 1.)  Turn off your power - it is important to cut the power to the room you're thermostat is at.  Mark your wires with tape from the terminal, unscrew them and discard your old thermostat.