Cost: $35 - $120
Time Spent: 1 Hour
Tools: Screwdriver, Batteries, Programmable Thermostat
Installing my Honeywell 5+2 Thermostat a year ago was one of the best and easiest projects I've done for my home. It was one of the first things I did after moving into my place and it paid off within the year. Using a programmable thermostat eliminates the need to remember turn the temperature up (or down) and saves energy and money.
Honeywell has plenty of good programmable thermostat options - we choose the 5+2 because it gives use just enough flexibility to have one schedule for the week, and another for the weekend. There are other options such as a 7-day programmable thermostat that allows for a different temperature schedule for each day, but the added flexibility also results in a more expensive thermostat.
Installation depends on your exisiting HVAC setup, but This Old House has a nice demonstration video. Also, if you have the option, the location of your thermostat can affect its performance and efficiency. Always locate thermostats on interior walls and away from direct sunlight, exterior doors and windows.
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I know this is a dumb question, but how does one link a wall heater to the thermostat? In our recently purchased home, there is a new wall heater with adjustable heat settings using a dial. The thermostat is old, and does not work. Presumably if we remove the old thermostat cover, we may see the red and white wires referred to in the video, but are they necessarily linked to the heater?
Assuming we get that part figured out, what setting should we leave the heater on to maximize its efficiency with the thermostat (the dial goes from 1-9 - no indication of temperature obtained at each setting)
double check with your city utility to see if they have a programmable thermostat program. for example, Austin does--Austin Energy brought over a thermostat and installed it for free, in exchange for cycling the A/C off during peak times for up to 15 minutes.
thefeltmouse:
If the current thermostat controls the wall heater, than yes the wires would control the heater. The wires for your unit may be different that in the video, but a new thermostat typically can take a number of wires.
Regarding the heat settings - see if you can find a users manual online for your unit, hopefully there is a key for what temperature each number corresponds to...
I have 4 different temperatures for my weekdays to maximize efficiency: Morning-68º (set so that its on when I wake up until I leave for work about 2 hours), Day-60º (about 10 hours), Evening-68º (about 3 hours), then Night-60º (about 9 hours).
It might take a little tweaking, and obviously depends on your personal schedule, HVAC system and comfort level. Good luck!
Rachel - I was looking at that same model for my apartment and the only reason I balked at it was that I am a renter and the reviews mentioned issues with the batteries running out and confusing programming. I am sure I would not have any issues with it, but what about the next person who lives in my unit? Don't want to pass on a confusing and battery-draining thermostat, you know? The ones that are powered from the main electrical supply and are also programmable just seemed too pricey ($75 and up). What are you thoughts about this?
STLcolleen,
Get the hardwired thermostat. In the end you'd have to pay for changing new batteries anyways, which could get costly too. The way I see it, if you can't get your landlord to help pay for the new thermostat, then you should just take it with you when you move to a new apartment (just like furniture). Also, when I got mine, I was able to get a rebate, so the hardwired cost the same as the battery powered - definitely look out for sales or rebates. Also, I don't think it's worth paying for a 7-Day programmable thermostat, you'll probably hardly use the extra features. Go with a 5 2, which is less expensive.
Good luck!
Rachel
I have a regular apartment issued thermostat from Trane. Will up grading to this type help me in the long run?