Where Should Your Thermostat Be Installed?

Most people wouldn’t think about thermostat placement as long as it’s conveniently located However, thermostat placement can actually make a difference, not just in your home’s comfort levels but also its efficiency. In today’s post, HVAC repair and installation contractor Thomas J. Fannon & Sons takes a look at how thermostat placement affects HVAC performance.

The Importance of Thermostat Placement

The thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system. Its basic function is to read the temperature of your home and “tell” the heating or cooling system when to run, and when to stop. Without a thermostat, HVAC systems would run at one setting continuously, which can result in inefficient operation that can increase the strain on the system.

Avoid Problematic Areas

To function optimally, your thermostat should be installed away from areas that could give false temperature readings. Here are some examples:

• Areas that are under direct sunlight can cause the thermostat to read higher temperatures and make the air conditioner increase its output unnecessarily.
• Placing the thermostat near windows, doors or on exterior walls could expose it to drafts or outdoor temperatures, leading to uneven operation of your HVAC system.
• Kitchens have fluctuating temperatures due to cooking, water heater and the dishwasher, causing the thermostat to read temperatures higher than they really are. This would cause the air conditioner to run for longer times.

The Ideal Thermostat Location

Ideally, your thermostat should be located on an interior wall, at the center of your living spaces, instead of being tucked away in hallways or seldom-used rooms. Ideally, your thermostat should be about 52 to 60 inches from the floor. At this height, it’s most likely to read the closest ambient room temperature. 

If you have a large home or a multi-story property, consider a zoning system or smart thermostat with multiple sensors. They can provide custom temperature settings in various sections of your home, addressing the problem of inaccurate readings from a singular thermostat.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats have made it even easier to manage home temperatures efficiently. They not only allow for more precise temperature control, but they can also learn your schedule and adjust settings to save energy accordingly.

For more information on thermostats or if you need to top up your furnace’s fuel oil, give our team at Thomas J. Fannon & Sons a call at (703) 549-5700. You can also fill out our online form to schedule a free estimate.