Programmable Thermostat Cost

• Prices start around $25 -$80 for a basic programmable thermostat that lets you set a daily temperature schedule. More advanced models run $80 -$250 or more, and include features such as separate weekday and weekend schedules (called 5/2 or 5/1/1 programming) or a different schedule for each day of the week (7 day programming); vacation override; easy-read displays; remote sensors for separate zones; remote programming; a keyboard lock to prevent unauthorized changes to the set schedule; and other options. Programmable thermostats designed for electric heat pumps are usually more expensive because of two-stage heating.
• Installation costs are extra. Many basic units can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer with simple wiring skills, although other folks may prefer to hire a pro. A heating/air conditioning contractor may charge $75 -$150 (depending on local rates) to remove an existing thermostat and install a programmable one, bumping the total cost to $100 -$400.

• Most programmable thermostats are digital, electromechanical, or some combination of those two. Electromechanical models are usually relatively simple to program, using pegs or sliding bars. Digital models may be difficult for some people to program, but offer the most features such as multiple setback settings, overrides and adjustments for daylight savings time. The US Department of Energy provides an overivew of thermostats and control systems.
• Location can affect a thermostat's efficiency and performance; it should be installed in a spot where it's easy to program but away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, skylights and windows. Installation involves turning off the power, disconnected the old thermostat, and mounting and wiring the new programmable thermostat. CornerHardware.com gives detailed instructions, ThisOldHouse.com provides a how-to video and FrugalDad.com shares his installation experience .

• Check with your local power company or utility department to see if they offer a rebate for installing a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat is intended to save heating and cooling costs by resetting temperatures according to a set schedule, and the US Environmental Protection Agency provides a calculator to estimate how much you'll save using a programmable thermostat instead of a regular dial model.
• Have a dial thermostat removed and a programmable one installed at the same time as a spring air conditioner or fall furnace tune-up to save a few bucks by avoiding having a technician make a separate trip, but be sure to say you want a new thermostat installed when you schedule up the tune-up.

• Programmable thermostats are available from most hardware and home improvement stores. Major manufacturers include American Standard, Honeywell, Hunter and Lux.
• EnergyStar.gov gives tips for choosing and installing a programmable thermostat, and lists stores that carry Energy Star-approved products.

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