Save money on air conditioning by using a programmable thermostat, and maybe get the device for free

Consumer Reports News: July 07, 2010 02:05 PM

Web interface for Con Ed's thermostat program.

As temperatures soar across the East Coast and other parts of the country, utility companies are asking customers to cut back on their energy use.

An accurate, easy-to-use programmable thermostat can help you decrease how much electricity you use for air conditioning, cutting your cooling bills by up to 20 percent. Our review of programmable thermostats includes ratings (available to subscribers) and illustrated installation instructions.

If you don't have a programmable thermostat, you might be able to take advantage of a rebate on one from your utility or even get a thermostat for free. Check DSIRE's list of incentives for programmable thermostats as well as the Energy Star rebate locator.

For its residential and business customers with central air conditioning in the New York City area, Con Ed is offering a programmable thermostat as well as free installation of the money-saving device through its Demand Response/Central Air-Conditioning Program.

The program is designed to allow you to manage the settings of your central air conditioning via a Web interface (shown); you can, of course, program the thermostat at home by hand. Beware that your utility might have a policy that during peak-demand periods allows the company itself to remotely adjust your thermostat. Read more about Con Ed's program and efforts during the heat wave.

—Gian Trotta

Essential information: Find out how to keep cool for less this summer.

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