If you woke up this morning and asked Alexa “what’s the weather?” chances are you weren’t too pleased with her response. For the first time since last April, the mercury was at freezing. As they say on Game of Thrones, “winter is coming”–and so are some hefty home-heating bills.
A recent piece published by Axios doesn’t paint a rosy picture for household budgets this winter. According to the Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration’s forecast, heating prices are going to be substantially higher in the coming year. Heating oil costs will jump to about 27% ($2,354). Those who heat with natural gas can expect a 28% ($931) hike. Heating by electricity will be 10% ($1,359) more. Similarly, propane costs are up 5% ($1,668).
When winter arrives, it’s crucial to keep your home warm and comfortable while also being energy-efficient. With the help of PK Electric NYC’s electrical wiring services and heating installation services, you can create a cozy environment that doesn’t break the bank. But why stop there? Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for even greater control over your energy usage. Our residential electricians can assist you in installing and optimizing your smart thermostat, allowing you to conveniently adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere using your smartphone. Don’t let winter catch you off guard – stay warm, save money, and embrace the convenience of a smart thermostat.
Smart Thermostat to the Rescue
Heating a home is a game of time, temperature, and cost. Central heating systems require energy (gas, oil, electric, propane), and the amount of energy you use is dependent on how warm you want the space and for how long.
The precursor to the smart thermostat was the programmable thermostat, which worked by setting timers to keep temperatures low for as long as possible–like when you’re at work. Smart thermostats improved on this by learning your behaviors to adjust to your schedule changes. They can be operated remotely by phone apps and can learn to heat only rooms that will be used. Since they’re connected to the internet, smart thermostats can receive weather reports and respond proactively to a cold snap. Moreover, they can even offer you suggestions to help you save more money.
I’m sure you’re thinking, “how much money can I expect to save by installing a smart thermostat?” That answer depends on a number of factors that include whether or not your system has sensors and how involved you are in setting it up and taking full advantage of its learning features. The savings range from 10 to 20 percent. And with popular models from Google, Honeywell, ecobee, and Amazon ranging in price from $80-$300, upgrading to a smart system should pay for itself within the year.
But Wait, There’s More!
There’s so much more your smart thermostat can do outside of controlling your home’s temperature from your smartphone on your commute, so everything is comfy when you get home. Here are some other cool things it can do that will help you save energy and money.
- Reports and Updates: Most smart thermostats can send you data reports that will help you identify what features are working and which could be more beneficial to you than others. Also, make sure you regularly update your smart thermostat app since features are regularly being added and upgraded.
- Dehumidifier Helper: Your smart thermostat can also run your AC longer in the warmer months to help get rid of excess moisture, so you don’t need to run a dehumidifier.
- Switch to Fan: It can also help reduce your air-conditioning costs by automatically switching off your AC compressor once your place is cool enough, then switching to the fan to spread cool air around.
- Filter Change Reminders: Some smart thermostat models can remind you to replace your furnace filter or air conditioning filter at regular intervals. When HVAC systems are running properly and efficiently, you’re saving money.
Is your home ready for a smart thermostat? Call PK Altman & Electric. Our team of professionals will inspect your home’s wiring system to determine if you can install a smart thermostat. If it turns out that your wiring is behind the times, our licensed and insured electricians can determine what is required to get you up to date and complete every step of the installation process of new wiring to accommodate your smart thermostat and other smart home components.
Our electricians work with a variety of brands that include:
Nest
Honeywell
ecobee
and more
As always, all work done by PK & Altman Electric’s team of licensed and insured electricians is guaranteed to meet New York City’s electrical safety code standards.
Call today to discuss your options with one of our experts.
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