I Got a Wi-Fi Thermostat — Why Are My Bills Still High?

Smart thermostats are one of the best home inventions of this century. They give you a boost in efficiency for your Semmes, Alabama, home, saving money and energy in the process. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re entirely foolproof. If you’ve upgraded to a smart thermostat but still have sky-high bills, your settings, HVAC unit, or another culprit may be to blame.

Installation Location

It seems like a no-brainer, but many homeowners and technicians aren’t always sure where to install the thermostat. This has a profound effect on the efficiency of your HVAC system. Avoid installing a smart thermostat near places with extreme temperatures, like exterior walls, places in direct sunlight, and locations that release heat such as a kitchen or bathroom. The best place for your smart thermostat is an unobstructed interior wall, as it provides the most accurate reading.

Unnecessary Heating and Cooling

Although smart thermostats learn your behavior over time, they can’t help you save money unless the settings you choose are reasonable to start. One of the biggest pitfalls faced by homeowners is picking the right temperature throughout the year. According to the EPA, you can save 10 percent annually on energy bills by turning your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours a day. That means when you’re at work, you can actually save money on the bill while you’re out earning money to pay it.

Keeping the Same Temperature

There’s a common misconception among homeowners that keeping your HVAC system at the same temperature year-round is a great way to save money. This couldn’t be further from the truth. When you set the thermostat to the same temperature, you don’t adjust for outdoor temperatures or times that you’re away. Adjusting the temperature around these factors puts some extra cash in your pocket.

Smart thermostats are a wonderful addition to any house, but only when they’re used correctly. If you need some advice or work done on anything related to smart thermostats, call Air Specialty today at (251) 415-4559.

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