The Art of the Air Conditioning Thermostat

When we think of our Tucson or Phoenix air conditioning system, what comes to mind is that big, noisy box on the roof or the side of the yard. But one of the important components to an air conditioner is actually that small box that is attached to a wall in your home – the thermostat.

The thermostat is a temperature-sensitive switch that turns heating and cooling systems on and off in your home when the temperature reaches a preset limit. The thermostat is your friend when it comes to maintaining energy efficiency and saving on home cooling costs.

The Ideal Temperature

The ideal temperature is not just the one at which you feel most comfortable. It’s also the one that allows your Phoenix or Tucson air conditioning system to be energy-efficient and save money – while you are comfortable.

In the summer, keep your thermostat set at or near 78 degrees while you’re home or away. Raising the temperature while you’re away raises the temperature in the house which causes your Phoenix or Tucson air conditioning system to work longer to achieve the desired temperature when you return.

In the winter, set the thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and lower while you’re asleep or away from home. By doing this, you can save five to 15 percent a year on your heating bill, according to energy.gov.

Two Types of Thermostats

There are two main types of thermostats found in homes today.

• Manual thermostats: These thermostats are the most simple to operate and least costly. They offer limited energy savings and comfort. These are best for homeowners who are diligent about adjusting the temperature setting based on the temperature fluctuations in the home.
• Programmable thermostats: While a programmable thermostat may be more complex to set up initially, most made these days are very user-friendly. This type of thermostat adjusts the temperature automatically throughout the day. More advanced models can switch between heating and air conditioning during seasonal transitions.

Chas Roberts Air Conditioning and Plumbing is the leading Tucson and Phoenix air conditioning contractor and is here to help you with your thermostat. For a quick video on how your thermostat can help with air conditioning efficiency, view this Tech Tips video from Chas Roberts. Need additional assistance with your air conditioner or thermostat? Schedule an appointment online or call (602) 943-3426 in Phoenix, (520) 618-1884 in Tucson or (505) 264-7257 in New Mexico.