Single Stage vs. Two Stage Programmable Thermostat Wiring

Reader question: I just picked up a new Trane programmable thermostat for our air conditioner/heat pump system. When I took the front off the current honeywell thermostat, it looks like there are quite a few more wires than what the new thermostat will accept. The thermostat has seven wires connected to terminals labeled C, R, W2, E, Y1 and W1 together (with a jumper), O/B, and G. There’s also... 

Giveaway: Trane Deluxe Programmable Thermostat (XL800)

The Price Pfister giveaway has finished (winner announcement shortly) and it’s time to get rolling with our next amazing freebie. Trane is breaking into the scene with a very nice, energy efficient, programmable thermostat. And the best part, there’s going to be two winners!! Trane XL800 Digital Thermostat Did you know that the average household will pay $2,300 this year in energy costs,... 

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat (Example: Honeywell)

I hooked up my new Honeywell Programmable Thermostat today and it was surprisingly easy. Honeywell includes a great set of instructions that was easy to follow. Installing a New Thermostat Note: Follow all the instructions that were included with your thermostat.  These instructions are only a summary. Step 1: Before you start, make sure to turn off the power to your heating and cooling system. Step... 

CFLs, Incandescents, and Thermostats

As we were heading up to bed the other night, Fred commented that it was awfully chilly in the house, even though the thermostat in our foyer read “75.”  And for once, I got to tell HIM something I’d already discovered in the innerworkings of our HVAC: incandescent bulbs can trick your thermostat into turning off. Since incandescents generate a lot of heat (I read somewhere that... 

Upgrade your Appliances to Save Money

I read an interesting article from Consumer Reports this month (Oct.). The article was detailing energy savings from upgrading old appliances. Consumer Reports examined 10 possible upgrades. I’m just going to highlight my favorites. If your interested in updating some of your appliances, make sure you use a coupon. 15% Cash back on Sears appliances Upgrade your Thermostat Do you still have... 

Baltimore HVAC Contractor – MG Mechanical Services – Excellent!

Two weeks ago, just as it was starting to get very hot in Baltimore, we walked past our thermostat and noticed that the display had gone out.  We checked the usual things: breakers at the main panel, breakers at the HVAC subpanel, and fuses by the outside A/C compressor (although I believe the latter would have had no effect on the display on the thermostat).  All the breakers checked out fine,... 

Green Tips to use at Home

There is plenty of information out there about ways to lead a “greener” lifestyle. It’s a trend that I hope continues. I still get excited when I see people and companies taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. 5 Great Green Tips for Around the House Vinegar. In my home we use vinegar as a cleaning solution. The acidity kills most mold, bacteria and germs. It’s also great...