Optimizing Comfort Without Waste: What Your Thermostat Can (and Can’t) Do for Your Energy Savings
At AirGreen, we often hear this essential question from our clients in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and South Shore: does my thermostat actually help reduce my electricity bill? It’s a legitimate question, especially when trying to get the most performance out of a wall-mounted heat pump, a smart thermostat, or a central HVAC system. But beware — there are quite a few misconceptions circulating about this small device that sits at the heart of your home comfort.
In this article, we’ll debunk the most common thermostat myths, explain what it can really do, and provide practical advice drawn from our many HVAC installation and maintenance service calls throughout Greater Montréal.
Myth #1: Lowering the thermostat at night or when you're away doesn’t really make a difference
This is one of the most widespread myths — and it’s simply false. Our certified technicians have seen firsthand during many service visits in Laval and Longueuil that a strategic thermostat schedule can lead to up to 10% savings on your annual energy bill.
What we recommend:
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Use a programmable or smart thermostat to lower the temperature by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius overnight.
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Schedule your system to raise the temperature 30 minutes before you wake up or return home.
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For central heating systems (especially with central heat pumps or electric furnaces), this modulation is particularly effective.
Myth #2: The higher you set the thermostat, the faster the room heats up
Many clients in Montréal and on the South Shore believe that cranking the temperature from 20°C to 26°C will make the house warm up faster. Not true.
Here’s why:
The thermostat doesn’t speed up heating, it only tells your system what temperature to aim for. Your heat pump or furnace heats at the same power output no matter the setting. Cranking it too high often results in overheating, discomfort, and unnecessary energy use.
Myth #3: All smart thermostats are the same
Not true. We’ve installed hundreds of connected systems, including Ecobee, Honeywell, Stelpro, and Mysa thermostats across Laval, Sainte-Julie, Repentigny, and Brossard. And performance varies widely based on:
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Compatibility with your HVAC system
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The quality of the learning algorithm
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Available smart home integrations (Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit)
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Geolocation features that adjust automatically based on your presence
Our advice:
Have your HVAC system evaluated by our experts before choosing a model. At AirGreen, we handle complete installation and optimize the configuration to match your home’s needs.
Myth #4: The thermostat only controls temperature
That’s a huge underestimation of what it can do. During multi-zone system installations in Longueuil and on the North Shore, we’ve shown our clients that a thermostat can also:
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Regulate indoor humidity (if paired with the right system)
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Control air quality (via mechanical ventilation or air exchangers)
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Manage specific zones (for multi-zone systems with wall-mounted or central heat pumps)
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Provide energy usage reports to identify the most costly consumption habits
Real Case Study in Montréal: The Smart Thermostat That Saved $780/Year
At a project in Ahuntsic, our team replaced an old mechanical thermostat connected to a central Goodman heat pump with a smart Ecobee Premium thermostat. Thanks to:
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A custom program based on the client’s habits,
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Geolocation for family members,
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Better modulation depending on outdoor temperature,
the client saw a 22% reduction in their annual energy consumption.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Your Thermostat
1. Blocking the sensors with furniture or curtains
This distorts the reading and leads to overheating.
2. Installing the thermostat on an exterior wall
Temperature readings will be affected by outside conditions.
3. Not updating the software (for smart models)
This can limit features and accuracy.
How AirGreen Helps You Maximize Your Energy Efficiency
At AirGreen, we don’t just install thermostats: we offer comprehensive HVAC expertise that includes:
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Advice on available grants (including Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program)
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A full analysis of your energy consumption
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Personalized thermostat programming based on your actual needs
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Post-installation follow-up to fine-tune settings throughout the seasons
Whether you're in Laval, Montréal, Boucherville, or anywhere on the North or South Shore, we’re with you every step of the way.
Why Trust Your Thermostat and HVAC System to AirGreen
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Fast, professional service across the entire Montréal metro area
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Certified technicians trained on all thermostat and HVAC system brands
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Over 500 successful installations per year, with exceptional customer feedback
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Expertise in both residential and commercial projects
In Summary: What You Should Remember
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Yes, your thermostat can help you save, if it's well-chosen, properly installed, and smartly programmed.
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No, it’s not just a temperature dial. It’s a real energy performance tool.
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And with AirGreen’s personalized support, you’ll get the most out of it.