The basics of programming a Carrier Programmable Thermostat

Carrier, in addition to being the father of modern air conditioning, is also a leading manufacturer of many other HVAC appliances and gadgets among which Thermostats are included. Carrier offers quality and affordability together by manufacturing programmable and as well as non-programmable thermostats that come in varying range so as to come in the budget of almost everyone easily. The Wifi Programmable Thermostat, being the latest models available offer programming via smartphone and pc which makes it controllable from anywhere in the world. We are here today to help you learn the basics of programming a Wi-Fi and non-Wi-Fi programmable a thermostat of Carrier. Let’s begin:

First thing first – Time and Date:

On a programmable thermostat, the first thing that you are required to do is to set the time and date. The procedure differs a little for Touch Screen Thermostats and for conventional press button thermostats. We are mentioning both.

Setting Time & Date on Touch Screen Thermostat:
Open the plate/door if there’s any and touch the screen to activate it or press the menu button (there are slight variations depending on the model). Use the ‘’Up’’ and ‘’Down’’ options to locate ‘’Date’’. Choose it and again press the ‘’up’’ and ‘’down’’ options to look for the current date. Once done, repeat the same process for the year, month, hour and minute. When done, press ‘’menu’’ option.

Setting Time & Date on Press Button Thermostat
Open the plate/door and the screen will activate. Look on the bottom right for the d/h/m button. Make use of arrow keys to choose the desired date. Press again the d/h/m button to repeat the process for the hour and minutes. Close the door when done.

Setting ‘’Mode’’

The Thermostat, be it programmable or non-programmable requires your interference in order to operate properly. The selection of ‘’mode’’ settings by you will decide whether the Thermostat is required to heat/cool or just fan cool the indoor. When set on ‘’Auto’’, the Thermostat decides on its own whether to heat or cool the indoor depending on the current and targeted temperature. To change the modes, press the ‘’mode’’ button and toggle between heat/cool/auto.

Setting ‘’Temperature’’

Once the mode is selected, the temperature can be set using the ‘’up’’ and ‘’down’’ keys or up/down arrows. The programmed temperature can be maintained using the hold/run button. Press the ‘’hold’’ key until hold appears on the screen. Press the key again until ‘’run’’ appears on the screen. This will run the programmed temperature and the Thermostat will operate accordingly.

Programming Heating/Cooling schedules

Carrier offers Thermostats that are capable of being programmed on daily as well as weekly basis. The most advanced models offer up to 7 days programming. Programming features vary from model to model so for detailed programming you’d need to consult your user manual but here’s the general method for all.

Step#1

Open the door/plate and choose ‘’set’’ button. Continue to press it until a list of days appears with a title ‘’daily schedule’’. Choose the day that you wish to schedule.

Step# 2

Set the ‘wake’ time. Then pressing ‘’heat set at’’ and ‘’cool set at’’ buttons, set the desired temperature. The programmed temperature will automatically get set at the programmed timings.

Step#3

There are three other options in addition to the ‘’wake’’ option. ‘’Day’’, ‘’Evening’’ and ‘’Sleep’’. Set the temperature for the rest of them using the same method.

Step#4

Use the same method for the other days of the week. Programming depends on what your Thermostat offers. It could be a 3-day Thermostat, a 5 or 7-day Thermostat.

Setting Wi-Fi

Once done with the temperature settings, it is important to make the Wifi connectivity, especially if you have a WiFi Thermostat. The WiFi Thermostats of Carrier also offer the feature that allows the Thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature by sensing the outer temperature.
To make WiFi connectivity, follow the steps:

Step# 1

Go to menu and toggle menus to find the Wifi option. Select it.

Step#2

Toggle the options to find ‘’Scan WiFi’’. Select it and look for your WiFi name. When it appears, select it.

Step#3

You are still to add the password. So toggle the options until the WiFi Password appears. Press ‘’change’’ option. You are now ready to add the password. Remember to press ‘’Next’’ after entering each character to advance.

Step#4

Once you are done with entering the password, press ‘’start’’. There’s a WiFi symbol on the top of the display. It will blink as the WiFi connects and will remain lighted as long as the Thermostat is connected.

So congratulations, your settings are completed. You can now use your Thermostat. 

For any other queries, HVAC help or services, call: 905-201-1293

Has your Touchscreen Thermostat stopped working? Do this!

As long as the time-saving technological devices keep functioning smoothly, they bring ease, comfort and relief but everything goes upside down when they begin to show problems. Let's talk about Touch Screen Thermostats in particular; Unlike the old Thermostat models, these models are not only easy to use but are also more accurate and more energy efficient. Set the temperature for a day or schedule it for an entire week, use the Thermostat for optimal home cooling or effective home heating, control it using the interactive user interface or manage to control it from anywhere in the world using wifi technology, there's a bucket full of ease and comfort that this small HVAC device known as ''Touch Screen Thermostat'' brings. But hey! Bad times can come to anyone at any time without prior notice. All this comfort can disappear all of a sudden as the Thermostat stops functioning. Since technicians are not always available and particularly not available with a quick response in Summers, we always recommend learning quick HVAC fixes. So let's assume your Thermostat has stopped working, what are you supposed to do now?

Every time you face this issue, there are three quick fixes that you can try.

1. The last time you changed the batteries was 100 years ago

There are several HVAC appliances that require maintenance only in terms of cleaning and regular manual inspection, however, there are others that need part replacement on a regular basis for them to operate properly. HVAC primary or secondary devices like Thermostats, CO Detector and others come in this category. Since they rely on batteries to fuel them, the batteries need a replacement after every six months at least else, a year. If your Thermostat stops working, the first thing is to recall what was the last time you changed the batteries? If it was 100 years ago, the batteries must have said goodbye to you to rest in the heavenly abode and you need to replace them. However, if you've changed the batteries recently, try to make sure they're properly fixed in the Thermostat before moving on to the next troubleshooting.

       

2. Do you reset your Smart Phones to fix some issues? Reset the Smart Thermostat too

Oh yeah! So how many times have you tried this? Your touchscreen mobile phone was posing issues with the touch panel or something else and a factory reset worked out. Most Touch Screen Thermostats use softwares to operate particularly the Wifi supported Thermostats. These softwares often times interrupt the operation. The reset option in many cases works as effectively for Thermostats as it does for Smartphones. Hit the reset option!

3. Check for wiring and cleaning

After the battery issue, this is the most common reason of why Touchscreen Thermostats stop working; the wiring defects and the lack of cleaning. If the Thermostat is completely dead and you've changed the batteries recently, there are 80% possibilities of a defect in the wiring. Uncover the Thermostat plate and look up for damaged wires. In case an issue is suspected and you're unsure how to fix, call on a professional.

In the case when the Thermostat is partially operating; the touch screen is posing issues, some touch buttons are working some not etc, there are chances that it is due to the dirty screen. Use a soft fibre cloth and clean the Thermostat screen with soft hands. It is recommended to use a pertinent cleaner.  

Still not fixed? The last resort - A Pro

That's all you could do. If none of the above-mentioned DIY troubleshooting worked, it seems the Thermostat itself is defective and it either needs a replacement or a professional technician to fix the defect. Call a professional, that's the only resort left.

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13 Simple Ways to lower Energy Bills

Who does not like saving? We all do! And when it comes to Summer utility bills, the desire for saving become intense every time a more fatty bill is received. But how exactly to make savings on energy bills? Are there genuine ways that can really help reduce utility bills?  

Well, there are not one or two ways, there are, in fact, tens of ways to save on energy bills. All you have to do it to practice the saving practices and there you are; saving hundreds of dollars on energy bills every year. Let's explore 13 ways that can help you in this venture:

1. Your Thermostat is your saving box

Indeed it is!

The US Department of Energy says that Thermostats can help save on energy bills up to 15% if they're turned up a few degrees for the time you're not at home. So every time you leave home, don't forget to raise the temperature on your Thermostat. Use Programmable or Smart Thermostats for auto setting the temperature.

2. Don't keep devices plugged when they're charged

So do you see when your mobile device is charged, your device shows a notification ''please unplug'? Keeping the devices plugged even when they're already charged not only takes energy unnecessarily but can also damage the device altogether by overcharging it. Unplug as early as the device get charged to not waste energy.

3. Check capacity of appliances before purchasing

While a high-efficiency Air Conditioner or Heat Pump can cool your home quickly, it also takes more energy. If you've a medium sized or small sized home, there's no need to purchase a high capacity system. Not only will it cost you initially but will also continue to charge you in terms of energy bills. Ask a professional to suggest you a compatible system for you home.

4. Make use of off-peak hours

The electricity charges on the off peak hours are less than the peak hours. Make use of the off-peak hours and use heavy machinery in those hours. This will help you save to a great extent.

5. Look for air leaks

You'll be wasting a lot of energy if there are holes and passageways that leak air from the house. As a consequence, more energy will be required to keep the home cool which means fatty energy bills. Check for any leaks and seal them with a sealant.

6. Curtains and Blinds

Did you know that 10% of cooling loss occurs through the windows with no blinds/curtains? Draw the blinds/curtains as soon as the sun begins to get hot in the day. Just by drawing curtains, you can save energy.

7. Make use of energy efficient appliances

Technology has progressed and it has served us with appliances that are better in efficiency and cheaper in utility. If you're using old heating, cooling systems, you are spending much more than what you'd spend with the latest energy efficient system. Replace the system by making a one-time investment and then save, save, save.

8. Clean Filters regularly

One simple step that can help save. Just clean your filters. Dirty filters bar the air flow and the system as a consequence has to put in more effort to operate which takes more energy.

9. Clean the ductwork

Cleaner ducts not only provide cleaner air to breathe but also reduce the burden on the system that otherwise is if the ductwork is filled with piles of dust and debris. Clean ducts, lighten the burden on the system and enjoy a reduction in energy bills.

10. Solar Power?    

Why not make use of the Sun's energy? Even if you cannot afford to convert the whole home on solar power, think of converting some appliances on solar. Solar power is far cheaper than the electricity we use. Once installed, forget about monthly bills.

11. Ceiling fan always works

Don't forget the fans totally in intense hot Summer. They are always of use. It is recommended to use fans when the weather is still moderate but even when it gets super hot, keep making use of your fans. Using a fan in combination with the Air Conditioner can help reduce energy bills since you can raise your thermostat temperature up to 4 degrees without feeling a difference in temperature if you've your fan serving along.

12. Replace Incandescent Bulbs

Fluorescent lights take up to 25% less energy compared to Incandescent bulbs. Every time an incandescent bulb fuses, replace it with energy efficient Fluorescent Lights.

Consider LED as an option too if you can afford to install them throughout the home. Lately, LED lights have become more popular because of their efficiency, environment-friendly nature and cost effective feature.  

13. Go Green

The more green you grow around, the cooler it will keep you. Plant shady trees around your home. They will keep your home cool. You can also keep some plants within your home. Not only do they help keep the environment cool but also work as natural air cleaners.

Save Energy with Electronic Thermostats

Welcome to the world of technology! The technology which is moving at such a speedy pace that every milestone that it sets is jaw dropping. Could anyone just a few dozen decades ago think that there would come a time when you'd be able to tweak the indoor temperature with so much precision and accuracy that seasons and weathers will make no difference? Did you ever notice that while you enjoy an ultimate comfort sitting right inside your living room and the sun is blazing outside, no compromise does your HVAC system make to keep you super cool? And by the way, did you also know that with the help of latest Thermostats, not only can you now schedule temperatures for your HVAC system but can also operate them from anywhere i.e Smart Thermostats/Wifi Thermostats

Let's talk about the Electronic Thermostats. Well, if you're still using your Grandma's brought Mercury Thermostat, you either love her so much to not let go of anything related to her memory or love yourself so less to give yourself the shock of fatty energy bills every month, while also putting at risk yours and the planet's life. The Mercury days are gone dude! Even the Virtual Museum of HVACR Canada features Honeywell's round (mercury) Thermostat as 20th-century classics. As said above, technology is moving at the fastest pace suggesting more efficient ways of both the home comfort and energy saving, it is wise to follow the pace of technology and improve the lifestyle using the latest of technologies.

Why Convert to Digital Thermostat? Here's why:

People are bewildered that all a Thermostat is supposed to do is tweak the HVAC system's temperature then why keep on jumping from one to another? Well, no! All Thermostats don't do the same job in the same way. Digital Thermostats work far different than mercury or classical Thermostats. Here are some reasons of why you should convert to Digital.

Mercuryless - Safer!

Digital Thermostats don't have any mercury in them and are, therefore, safer than the Mercury Thermostats that have the highest amount of mercury present in household objects. Danger!

Mercuryless - Save Earth

Did you know that only a 2.5 grams of mercury if put in a lake of 8 hectares, leaves its water undrinkable and its fish inedible for an entire year? Not only the Maintenance of Mercury Thermostats is a headache, their disposing of is difficult as well. Contrary to that, Digital Thermostats do not have such horrendous effects on the environment and the planet on the whole. Why play around with Mother Earth?

Non-Moveable parts - Easy to repair

With moveable parts Mercury Thermostat, you'd have to call a technician to fix your Thermostat every time you mistakenly throw it or have its parts misplaced. Digital provides relief from these regular issues too.

Programmable - Always comfortable

Digital provide more controls. With programmable features, you can turn the heating and cooling appliances ON or OFF before coming to the home or leaving it, saving lots of energy. Did grandma's Thermostat support that? Nope!

Save up to $200

Indeed you heard it right! With Digital Thermostats, it is possible to save up to $200 per year. The increased efficiency and precision of the Digital Thermostats lets the least energy go wasted.

Bottom Line

It's good that you still have your grandma's Thermostat. It shows your love for her but probably now that you're tired of high energy bills and the hectic situations that Mercury Thermostat causes, it is the time to uninstall the older version of the 20th century and go with the flow of 21st century; Digital and Smart Thermostats.

And yes, may your grandma rest in peace! Take the Thermostat to the store room.

4 simple ways to prolong the life of your HVAC system

Investment in HVAC systems is a hefty investment we make and, therefore, every homeowner wants to prolong the life of his system as much as possible in order to make the most of it without having to invest again. So are there any ways to actually prolong the system’s life? Oh yes! There are!

1. Pre-Season Check Up

It is crucial to get your system cleaned and tuned up before the beginning of the season when they’ll be used the most. Better to tune up cooling appliances in Spring to make them ready for Summers and tune-up heating appliances in Fall to make them ready for Winters.

This will get any issues resolved before the season begins, and will also guarantee efficient appliance performance.

Also, remember that at the peak of seasons, HVAC professionals are full time busy and it is hard to schedule visits to get maintenance and repairs, plan maintenance at a time when they’re easily available; the timings mentioned above.

2. Checking Air Filters regularly

Messy air channels can confine the stream of air to your HVAC system which overloads the system by making the system work harder in pushing and pulling the air. This harms exorbitantly the blower assembly since it needs to put excessive energy to perform its function. Checking duct and appliance filters regularly can help remove the stockpiles of mud and dust, eventually improving the system’s efficiency and extending the life of your HVAC system.

3. Daily check up of HVAC System

Examining your HVAC system regularly can help get little issues resolved before they transform into huge ones. While you will need a professional’s help to assess your conduits for air spills and tune up your system; there are things you can take a look at by yourself. Keep a careful eye on components that are vulnerable to wear and tear. Moreover, for Air Conditioner outdoor units and Heat Pumps etc that are out of sight usually, it is a good practice to give them a quick look to make sure everything’s fine. Water leaks should also be checked on a regular basis to avoid any serious harm to the system.

4. Give pause to your system

Several homeowners in Canada run their systems 24 hours which ultimately affects the efficiency of the system. Giving pause to the system lowers the workload on it and allows the components to refresh which then leads to a prolonged lifespan of the system. But who has time to turn the system on and off? Well, installing a programmable regulator/thermostat device can do this favour for you. It helps in adjusting the temperature of your system and keeps on tuning it according to the outdoor temperature consequently not running it 24/7.

Bottom Line

Although an estimated lifespan of an appliance is predefined, there are ways that can be incorporated to prolong the life of the system and enjoy its performance for a longer period of time. There is no denying the fact that people who keep their appliances well maintained have to spend the least on HVAC system.

Are you one such wise homeowner? If not yet, start following these 4 ways and experience an ultimate comfort with massive savings.  

Make the most of your Programmable Thermostat

We observe interesting things on our appliance tune up or repair visits to homes. People often buy home comfort appliances but fail to make the most of them. Often times, the reason of fatty bills is the improper use of appliances. Therefore, we suggest customers read the user manuals properly before beginning to use their appliances and also seek a professional's help to get to learn how can the appliances be used effectively and efficiently. If you have a Programmable Thermostat at home but always turn it off when not in need, there's something you need to explore about it. And don't worry, we'll help you in that.

How do Programmable Thermostats work?

Simply very simply. Although, it's difficult to say with precision the complete working of a Thermostat since tens of Programmable Thermostat makes are in the market, each with its own idiocentric features, a general working principle that all programmable thermostats follow is that they  turn on and off at a given temperature or get automatically set to a programmed temperature on their own. Different thermostats offer different settings, however, the three most common settings that they allow are here under:

5+1+1 day Model

This model allows one schedule for 5 days of the week while 2 separate schedules for Saturdays and Sundays

5+2 days Model

Thermostats that have 5+2 settings allow scheduling of one schedule for entire week while one schedule for the weekends i.e Saturday, Sunday

7 days Model

7 days model is one of the most adopted ones currently in Toronto. This type of Thermostats allow setting different schedules for different days of the week.

Make use of energy saving points

Set energy saving points. Energy saving points is the temperature at which you want your HVAC system to work when you aren't at home. After setting up energy points, the thermostat automatically switches to those points when you aren't at home.  

Make use of Hold Button

Here's another trick to save energy and improve the efficiency of your HVAC appliances. Put the Thermostat on a constant hold when there's a change in your schedules. This will help save a lot of energy.

Set Temperatures Wisely

That is important or else you'll be using your Thermostat and still will be missing the great advantages of it. Analyze the schedule of the family members and set the thermostat accordingly. It is wise to set the turn on time a little before the time for the homeowners to come so that the home is cool as they enter. Similarly, set the Thermostat to turn off a little before you're supposed to leave.

Mount it properly

For your Thermostat to work efficiently, it is important that it is able to sense the surrounding temperature properly. For that, mounting the Thermostat at a place where it can sense proper temperature is important. In case the Thermostat receives direct sunlight, it will function with faulty efficiency. To make the most of your Programmable Thermostat, mount it at a proper location.

Bottom Line

There are simple tricks that most homeowners miss and end up having fatty bills. If you're using any HVAC appliance at your home, go through the user manual in detail. Follow the do's as well as the don'ts. In case you fail to understand some features, ask your service provider or explore the stuff online in order to not miss any benefits.  

Also, Find out Lennox Programmable Thermostats