It’s back to making sure the HVAC thermostat is programmed for the summer season once again.

• The heat season is just about upon us and the thermostat control is the last part of my preparations for the HVAC savings this summer.

The HVAC technician has been out to do the air conditioner tune-up so I know the heat pump will be running at its most efficient. And I always take a weekend in the spring to be certain that the weather stripping around all the openings is in good shape. Keeping the house tightly sealed is a big key to saving on cooling costs. After that, it’s really just pulling the curtains or shades during the day and sticking to the thermostat protocol. I haven’t yet invested in an HVAC smart thermostat so I have to manually program my thermostat. The smart thermostat is the next HVAC equipment upgrade I plan to make before too much longer. Still, the thermostat can be controlled and setting discipline can be consistent without a Wifi thermostat. But if you don’t adhere to some sort of HVAC thermostat strategy, the cooling cost savings die on the vine. For me, I use the spring to get acclimated to the heat that’s coming. There is no real substitute for the depth of the heat and humidity in August. However, getting a bit more accustomed to the heat as the temperatures rise is a great way to start the thermostat setting discipline. This approach makes it a lot easier to enjoy an 80 degree house when it’s in the upper 90’s outside.

Ductless heat pump