HVAC controls have come a long way in the last few years, a “smart” consumer-grade thermostat merely being the most visible link in the feedback loop.
Even greater savings can be had through the use of outdoor temperature sensors, outdoor resets and indoor temperature sensors. Modern control systems can do a lot more than just make a better guess at when you need heating and cooling, they can actually make the heating and cooling process itself more efficient using equipment already in place. Before you drop fractional kilobucks on cutesy wall-hanging-app-machines, consider talking to an HVAC specialist.
Also, in many, many homes insulation continues to be the best bang-for-you-buck as regards energy budget savings, but it doesn’t give you quite as much to chat about at your next cocktail party.
