Hello kids! Today we’re gonna learn about a little device in your boiler room called a thermostat. The thermostat is the boss of the boiler room because it tells the boiler when to switch on and off, thus allowing us to set a desired temperature that makes our houses feel warm and cozy. It regulates temperature, keeping us warm in the winter, and cool in the summer.
When you look at your thermostat you’ll see it has a dial or buttons that allows you to adjust the temperature. You can crank it up if you want it warmer. You can crank it down if you like it cooler. We should train the temperature to achieve the perfect balance between saving energy versus the heating/cooling not feeling right.
Having established what a thermostat is for, let’s dive in to how we use it to save energy. In addition to protecting our environment saving energy means saving money! A smart way to use your thermostat is to set it at a comfortable temperature when you’re home, and then turn it down slightly when you’re sleeping or not at home.
You could also invest in a programmable thermostat, which allows you to set different temperatures throughout the day. For instance, you could have it be warmer in the morning when you first wake up, cooler during the day when you’re at school, and then warm again in the evening when you are home. In this manner, you only utilize power when you require it.
If you see something odd, such as when you try and turn the temperature you don’t see it change, or it isn’t turning the boiler on or off when it should be, you may need to ask a grown up for help. The thermostat problems should get addressed as soon as possible to keep your house comfortable.
Smart thermostats also know when you’re leaving or returning home, and adjust temperatures accordingly. Some even allow you to use your voice to tell them to turn up the heat without pressing a button. If you are thinking about getting a smart thermostat, ask whether your family would be willing to buy one for your boiler room.
Now, even great gadgets — thermostats, for example — can come with issues. Having thermostat problems? There are some simple things to check before calling for assistance. Start by checking the thermostat to ensure it’s on the right temperature and mode. If you still notice nothing, change or move around the batteries, and check the circuit breaker to confirm the current is powered on.