Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where can I buy an electronic setback thermostat?
2. How do I install a setback thermostat?
3. Do thermostats need to be maintained?
4. How quickly will a setback thermostat pay for itself?
5. How do I choose the right setback thermostat for my home?
6. I heat my home using electric baseboards. Is there anything special I should know?

1. Where can I buy an electronic setback thermostat?

   Electronic setback thermostats are available from local heating contractors, and at most home improvement or hardware stores.

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2. How do I install a setback thermostat?

   Setback thermostats can be installed by your local heating contractor, or by using the installation service at your local hardware or home building centre. You may also install setback thermostats yourself as per the instructions from the manufacturer. Thermostats for electric baseboards must be installed by a licensed electrician.

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3. Do thermostats need to be maintained?

   Yes. Thermostats should be check, cleaned (i.e. blow out any dust) and calibrated periodically. A good guideline is to have your service contractor check the thermostat when performing annual maintenance on your heating system.

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4. How quickly will a setback thermostat pay for itself?

   If the setback thermostat is used as directed, it will pay for itself in two to four years.

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5. How do I choose the right setback thermostat for my home?

   Setback thermostats come in many varieties. They can allow for either one or two adjustments a day or multiple changes over a week. To decide the best thermostat for your needs, determine the temperature setbacks you want for your home and look for the simplest thermostat that will meet your individual needs. Make sure that the thermostat is compatible with your home's heating system. If you have a cooling system, choose a setback thermostat that will control both heating and cooling. If you have a heat pump system, you should review the manufacturer's specifications before considering a setback thermostat. An improperly used or mismatched setback thermostat can actually increase heat pump operating costs. Most manufactures now offer setback thermostats specifically designed for heat pumps.

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6. I heat my home using electric baseboards. Is there anything special I should know?

   The old mechanical thermostats used for many electric baseboards are not very accurate: they produce a temperature swing of 2 C above or below the desired temperature, causing many people to keep resetting their thermostat. An electronic setback thermostat has no moving parts, controlling your baseboard heaters much more precisely. Thermostats for baseboards must be installed by a licensed electrician to ensure they are compatible with the power rating (in watts) of the baseboard heater it controls. Replace all your old thermostats with electronic setback thermostats to maximize your savings.

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