Save Fuel - Check Thermostat Accuracy
Tuesday, 15 November 2005 16:35
Mechanical thermostats tend to loose accuracy over time. You can easily check the accuracy of a thermostat. Start by checking the accuracy of a good thermometer by inserting it into an ice bath. The reading should be 32°F. After allowing it to come back up to room temperature, place it next to the thermostat you want to check.. Slowly move the dial until the heater turns on. The reading should be the same as the thermometer reading. If not, mark the thermostat accordingly. Next time the heating system is serviced, have the service person recalibrate it. If the thermostat setpoint is 1°F too high, a 30' x 100' double poly covered hoophouse will use an additional $300 of fuel for the heating season. This is based on maintaining 60°F inside where the average winter temperature is 25°F outside with fuel oil at $2.00/gallon, natural gas at $1.37/therm or propane at $1.17/gallon.
John Bartok
