Why We Replaced Our Old Thermostat with a Programmable Model

I wasn’t sure whether our old thermostat was reliable anymore. Since we installed a new programmable thermostat, though, I hardly think about heating and cooling. The new unit regulates temperature automatically based on the time of day, and that simplicity is one of the best upgrades we’ve made—not only for comfort, but for our energy bills and the environment.

Here’s the bottom line: the average household can save about $180 a year by using a programmable thermostat. These devices let you schedule temperature changes so the system isn’t working while the house is empty or everyone is asleep. By reducing unnecessary heating or cooling when no one needs it, you use less energy, spend less money, and reduce your home’s environmental footprint. It’s a simple change that benefits both your wallet and the planet.

For us, replacing the aging thermostat that came with the house was overdue. It looked dated and unreliable, so we decided it was a perfect opportunity to upgrade. The old unit had to go:

With the power turned off, we carefully removed the existing thermostat. Taking it off revealed an opening in the wall and the wiring behind it. We made sure the wires didn’t slip back into the cavity while we worked, which is an easy mistake to make if you’re not cautious.

We selected a Hunter 5+2 Programmable Thermostat. This model supports two different schedules—one for weekdays and another for weekends—so it fits typical household routines without requiring daily programming. We bought it on sale at Lowe’s for $25, though prices vary and other models let you program each day separately. When shopping, prioritize an Energy Star-certified unit and confirm compatibility with your existing heating and cooling system and wiring.

Installation was straightforward. After turning off the breaker, we matched each wire to its corresponding terminal—red to R, blue to C or the appropriate terminal depending on the system—then secured the new thermostat base to the wall. Once the wires were connected, we snapped on the cover, inserted batteries, and powered the system back on. Everything powered up without issue, and programming the schedules took just a few minutes. If you’re uneasy about wiring or compatibility, a professional HVAC technician can install and configure the thermostat in less than an hour.

Beyond energy savings, a new thermostat can improve home appeal. Updated controls suggest a well-maintained HVAC system, which can be an attractive feature for prospective buyers. This is a low-cost improvement—our unit cost only $25—that can make a small but positive difference in how your home presents. We’re not selling our house, but if we were, replacing an old thermostat would be an easy staging move.

If you decide to install a programmable thermostat, keep a few tips in mind: check compatibility with your HVAC system and existing wiring, verify Energy Star certification for best efficiency, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring and programming, and consider professional help if your system uses uncommon wiring or needs a C-wire for power. After installation, give the unit a week to settle into your household routine and then review the settings to fine-tune comfort and savings.

For us, the new thermostat is a small investment with immediate benefits—automated comfort, lower energy usage, and a cleaner look on the wall. It’s a practical upgrade that pays for itself over time and makes everyday life a bit more convenient.