We all want to save money. 

A way you might not think about is by altering your thermostat to be energy efficient. 

Chances are, you aren’t using your programmable thermostat as effectively as you could be.

Here are a few tips to keep you comfortable, but to also keep some money in your pockets.

Understanding the Impact of Temperature Settings

Changing your thermostat by just 2 degrees can save you around 2% on your monthly bill, up to almost $108 saved in a year.

Annually, the typical homeowner could expect to spend $2,600 on propane heating.

Various sources contribute to your energy bill, from thermostats to lights. You can control how much you pay by changing how you use your appliances—your thermostat being something you can change.

It’s possible and crucial to find a balance between comfort and savings so that you aren’t paying more than you have to.

To do that, you could set your programmable thermostat to 68°F in the winter at 10 PM when everyone goes to bed but have it come back up to 72°F in the morning when everyone is getting ready. 

When everyone leaves for work or school by 9 AM, you can set your programmable thermostat to go back down to 68°F to save some energy. 

Heating With Propane Gas

Our winter weather patterns are notoriously finicky, so typical heating requirements may vary weekly. 

In general, when it comes to your thermostat throughout the day, you should aim to:

• Lower temperatures during the night and when you’re away.
• Maintain a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature during the day.

Your programmable thermostat can automate these temperature adjustments.

Cooling With Electric AC

 In contrast, we can have hot and humid summers that make you want to blast the AC.

You should try these tips for cooling efficiency:

• Raise the temperature when you’re not home.
• Set a slightly higher temperature while home to reduce your AC’s workload.

Essentially, you’re doing the opposite of what you should do in the winter. As always, your programmable thermostat can automatically do this for you if you set it to. You can expect similar cost savings, too!

Seasonal Transitions

Our seasons have begun to bleed into each other with late summers, early winters, and vice versa. You may turn your heat on for the first time in November. 

You can capitalize on these temperatures by turning off your heating and cooling systems. You can always turn your thermostat’s fan setting on if you need air circulation.

Local Incentives and Resources

As of August 2023 in Pennsylvania, under the Inflation Reduction Act, you can receive a tax credit equal to 30% of the cost of your energy-efficient home improvements with the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit.

Low-income, high-risk residents can also apply for the Weatherization Assistance Program, which runs an energy audit and makes improvements from there. 

Kauffman Gas Can Assist You 

Seasonally, you can adjust your programmable thermostat to be more energy efficient throughout the day. 

When it comes to regular maintenance and any questions that you may have, we can help.

If your programmable thermostat isn’t being as cost-friendly and energy-efficient as it could be, contact Kauffman Gas today.

FAQs

How much can a programmable thermostat save on my energy bills?

A programmable thermostat can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 10–30% annually by automatically adjusting temperatures when you’re away or asleep.

By optimizing HVAC run times—raising temps in summer and lowering them in winter—these devices ensure you’re not wasting energy, translating into substantial savings over time.

What temperature schedules work best with a programmable thermostat?

Experts recommend setting your thermostat about 7–10°F higher in summer (when you’re away) and 7–10°F lower in winter to maximize savings.

Programs might include energy-saving setbacks during weekday work hours and nighttime comfort patterns.

Customizing schedules based on your routine helps maintain comfort and efficiency without manual adjustments.

Can a programmable thermostat extend the life of my HVAC system? 

Yes.

By reducing unnecessary run times and preventing overheating or overcooling, programmable thermostats decrease wear and tear on your heating and cooling systems.

Smoother operation and consistent temperature reductions help your HVAC unit run more efficiently, potentially extending its lifespan and minimizing repair costs.