Energy-use Reports
Energy-use Reports | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Dayton
Dayton homeowners are discovering just how much control they really have over monthly utility costs with HEP’s comprehensive energy-use reports. By analyzing the performance of your heating and air-conditioning system in real time, our reports highlight hidden inefficiencies—like uneven cycling, temperature drift, and phantom power draw—that quietly inflate your bills. Clear visuals and easy-to-follow recommendations make it simple to spot where precious dollars (and comfort) are being lost.
Armed with this insight, you can act decisively on the most impactful fix of all: thermostat upgrades. Our team pairs advanced, Wi-Fi–enabled models with customized settings for Dayton’s climate swings, allowing you to automate setbacks, monitor usage from your phone, and fine-tune comfort room by room. The result is an immediate drop in energy waste, a gentler workload on your HVAC equipment, and a cozier home that feels as smart as it looks.
FAQs
How can an energy-use report help me decide if I need a thermostat upgrade?
Our report breaks down your heating and cooling consumption by hour, day, and season, then compares it with similar Dayton-area homes. If the data show frequent temperature swings, long equipment run-times, or high kWh/therm use during unoccupied hours, it signals that your existing thermostat settings or technology are inefficient. The report also estimates potential savings from scheduling, zoning, or smart-learning controls, giving you a clear cost-benefit picture before you invest in an upgrade.
What types of thermostat upgrades are available for homes in Dayton?
Dayton homeowners typically choose among three categories: 1. 7-day programmable models – allow different schedules for each day of the week. 2. Smart/Wi-Fi thermostats – connect to your phone and adapt to occupancy, weather data, and utility price signals. 3. Zoned or multi-thermostat systems – divide larger homes into separate comfort zones, each with its own control. Our technicians match the model to your HVAC type (gas furnace, heat pump, dual-fuel, etc.) and your wiring (standard 24-V, heat pump with auxiliary, or communicating systems).
Will upgrading to a smart thermostat really lower my heating and cooling costs?
Yes—when installed and programmed properly. U.S. Department of Energy studies show 8–15 % savings on heating and 10–12 % on cooling. Smart thermostats add learning algorithms, geofencing, and adaptive recovery so they can reduce runtime without sacrificing comfort. In Dayton’s mixed-climate, that typically translates to $80–$150 in annual utility savings on a $900–$1,200 average heating/cooling bill.
Are there rebates or incentives in Dayton or Ohio for installing energy-efficient thermostats?
Absolutely. AES Ohio (formerly DP&L) periodically offers $25–$75 bill credits for qualifying ENERGY STAR® smart thermostats. Ohio’s ECOLink low-interest financing can bundle thermostat costs with other efficiency upgrades. On the federal level, the 25C tax credit gives 30 % back (up to $150) on equipment and labor. We track all current incentives and will complete the rebate paperwork for you.
How do I know if my current HVAC system is compatible with a new thermostat?
Most Dayton residences use low-voltage (24 V) systems, which work with nearly all modern thermostats. Key checks include: 1) number of stages (single vs. two-stage heating/cooling); 2) presence of a C-wire to power Wi-Fi models; 3) special requirements for heat pumps, dual-fuel, or communicating furnaces. During our free pre-upgrade inspection, we verify wiring, transformer load, and control board terminals so you don’t end up with an incompatible device.
What is the average payback period for a thermostat upgrade based on typical Dayton utility rates?
A quality smart thermostat costs $200–$350 installed. With average local savings of 8–15 %, most customers recoup $80–$150 per year, giving a simple payback of 1.5–3 years. Factoring in rebates and tax credits can shorten payback to under 12 months. After that, the energy savings keep reducing your electric and natural-gas bills for the 10-15-year life of the thermostat.