Energy Usage
Energy Usage | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Reliance
Imagine cutting your Reliance home’s energy bill while making every room feel just right, all year long. Our page on thermostat upgrades shows how a smart, precision-tuned control can learn your schedule, balance humidity, and give you instant insight into real-time consumption. From whisper-quiet heating cycles on winter mornings to energy-sipping cooling in the height of summer, you’ll discover how the latest Wi-Fi and programmable options turn everyday comfort into measurable savings—often paying for themselves in a single season.
Dive in to see side-by-side comparisons, rebate information, and step-by-step guides written by HEP technicians who’ve optimized thousands of Reliance systems just like yours. Whether you’re retrofitting an older furnace, pairing with a new high-efficiency heat pump, or syncing temperature control to your smartphone, you’ll find practical tips and clear explanations that make upgrading straightforward, affordable, and rewarding.
FAQs
How much can I expect to save on my energy bills by upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat?
Most homeowners see heating and cooling cost reductions of 8–15 % after installing a properly programmed smart or advanced programmable thermostat. Savings come from automatically lowering the temperature when you’re asleep or away, ensuring the HVAC system isn’t running at full capacity when it’s not needed. The exact amount will vary with your climate, current thermostat habits, and HVAC system efficiency, but even conservative use typically pays back the cost of the device within 1–2 heating/cooling seasons.
Will a new thermostat work with my current furnace and air-conditioning system?
Nearly all modern thermostats—especially ‘universal’ or smart models—support the common 24-volt HVAC controls used in gas, oil, electric, and heat-pump systems. Before purchase, verify: (1) system type (single-stage, multi-stage, or heat pump), (2) available wiring (a ‘C-wire’ may be required for Wi-Fi models), and (3) voltage (line-voltage baseboard heaters need a special thermostat). Reliance can inspect your existing wiring and equipment at no charge and recommend models guaranteed to be compatible.
Do smart thermostats require Wi-Fi, and what happens if my internet goes down?
Smart thermostats get their ‘smart’ features—remote access, usage reports, weather learning, and automatic software updates—from a Wi-Fi connection. However, the core temperature-control functions run locally; if your internet service is interrupted, the thermostat continues to follow the last saved schedule and manual adjustments. Once Wi-Fi reconnects, it resumes cloud-based services without losing settings or data.
Can I install a thermostat upgrade myself, or should I hire a professional?
Many homeowners can install battery-powered programmable thermostats with simple wiring in under 30 minutes. Smart thermostats and multi-stage or heat-pump systems often involve extra wires, configuring dip switches, or adding a C-wire adapter. Professional installation ensures: (1) correct wiring, (2) optimized settings for maximum efficiency, (3) integration with zoning, humidifier, or ventilation accessories, and (4) valid warranty coverage. Reliance offers flat-rate installation that includes setup, mobile app pairing, and a tutorial.
What features should I look for when choosing a thermostat to maximize energy efficiency?
Key energy-saving features include: • 7-day or geofencing scheduling to adapt to occupancy patterns • Adaptive recovery to reach setpoints just in time, avoiding unnecessary runtime • Humidity control integration to raise the cooling setpoint without sacrificing comfort • Learning algorithms that refine schedules over time • Energy-use reporting to show where consumption spikes • Utility rebate compatibility (many local programs offer $50–$100 for qualifying models). Smart thermostats that combine these capabilities typically deliver the highest savings.
Are there rebates or incentives available for thermostat upgrades in my area?
Yes. Most Ontario utilities and national programs recognize smart thermostats as a cost-effective energy-efficiency measure. Current incentives in many Reliance service areas include: • Up to $125 instant rebate through Save on Energy for ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats • Time-of-Use optimization credits from select utilities if the thermostat participates in demand-response events • Federal Greener Homes Grant eligibility when combined with other HVAC upgrades. Reliance keeps an updated list of local offers and can handle rebate paperwork to ensure you receive all available savings.