While your current thermostat may be serving you well, the truth is that digital models represent a radical shift in the way we control the heating and cooling of our homes. Many homeowners have already make the switch to these more advanced – and environmentally superior – thermostats.
Benefits of Going Digital
Older thermostats are on their way out. Newer digital, programmable models are much easier to use. They utilize clear displays and simple buttons to change the temperature. You can program them to your specifications depending on your daily needs, which can save you energy and money if used wisely. And WiFi models can be controlled from remote locations. What many people don’t think about, though, is the fact that digital models don’t use mercury, which is reason enough to pick one up.
The Dangers of Mercury
The mercury used in traditional thermostats presents a real hazard for the environment and for humans as well. To give you an example of how we’re affected, consider the fact that Ohio residents are instructed to eat no more than one meal each week of fish from the state’s waters. This is because the amount of mercury found in fresh-water fish in our region has been increasing, and ingesting too much mercury can be very harmful.
How Mercury Is Being Controlled
A number of initiatives are in full swing to lower the amount of mercury that enters the environment. Many companies have been reducing mercury levels used in various applications, but we still have a long way to go. Digital thermostats are another step in the right direction, and Ohio is phasing out the sale of mercury thermostats and encouraging homeowners to switch to digital. But remember – you don’t want to just throw the old thermostat in the trash. Instead, contact the Thermostat Recycling Corporation to arrange disposal.
For more expert advice on upgrading your thermostat, or if you have other home comfort questions, please contact the friendly professionals at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We serve Lorain and the surrounding area with more than 50 years of HVAC experience.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about thermostats and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area