Install Programmable Thermostat to Save Money

LESLIE: Genevieve in Connecticut needs some help with energy savings by using a programmable thermostat. How can we help you with this adventure?

GENEVIEVE: I am concerned about winter coming. I spent a lot of money on oil [1] last year and I was wondering if a programmable thermostat would help me.

TOM: Absolutely. A programmable thermostat [2] – a clock setback thermostat – can knock about 10 percent off of your heating bill.

GENEVIEVE: Very good.

TOM: So it’s a very good thing to do.

GENEVIEVE: Excellent. I am trying to block all the holes in the windows [3] and I have to get some insulation done down in the cellar [4].

TOM: You know what you might want to do, Genevieve, contact your utility company and ask them about doing an energy audit [5] for you. Many of the companies do them for free and this way, you know exactly where the leakiest, most energy-efficient places are in your house and you can …

LESLIE: And then you’ll know how to fix them.

TOM: Yeah, you can attack those one at a time.

GENEVIEVE: Very good.

TOM: Alright, Genevieve. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.