You can reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs by about 15 percent with a programmable thermostat. It automatically keeps the temperature at a comfortable level when you’re home, but switches to an energy-saving level when you’re away or asleep. Programmable thermostats are available from home centers and hardware stores. The higher-priced models provide more programming options.
Programmable thermostats will work with most gas or oil furnaces and central air conditioners. However, heat pumps, electric baseboards, and a few other systems require special features. Read the package to make sure the programmable thermostat you buy is compatible with your heating and cooling system. If you are unsure, call your local utility or a heating and cooling contractor.
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Remove the old thermostat
To begin, turn off power to the heating and cooling systems at the main panel. Then remove the old thermostat. If your old thermostat contains mercury, you’ll see a small glass tube with a shiny silver ball inside. Mercury is toxic. Take this type of thermostat to a hazardous waste disposal site.
There will be anywhere from two to five wires hooked up to the old thermostat. Label the thermostat wiring with marking tabs using the letters on the old screw terminals as reference. If your new thermostat doesn’t come with marking tabs, use masking tape. Remove and discard the old thermostat.
Article source here: How to Install a Thermostat
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