Comments on: Energy Conservation: Religious Duty and Good Sense

By: Wayne K

Wayne K — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 19:30:07 +0000

Thanks for the article. Very informative! I have done most of these suggestions for our house, but you’ve added a few to my to do list.

By: Rafi Sohail

Rafi Sohail — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:10:51 +0000

Installing a new thermostat is not that difficult depending on your comfort level with the electric wiring. The instructions are straight forward, but the confusion may arise when the color of a wire stated on the manual does not match with your older thermostat wiring. It may happen in those homes with thermostat installed over 20 years ago.

All rental properties are required to meet the state building codes. Unfortunately, the building code is usually a minimum standard and it does not require a programmable thermostat. Regardless of whomever is paying the gas bill, a programmable thermostat will be beneficial to the property. These thermostats only cost $25 to $75. Yes, you should strongly encourage having your landlord to install a new thermostat. Thanks!

By: Marcia Lynx Qualey (Umm Is'haq)

Marcia Lynx Qualey (Umm Is'haq) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:01:11 +0000

Thanks Rafi! I was interested in the "programmable thermostat" idea, and found several sites that have suggestions on how to do it yourself. Although I think I'd be too scared to work with electricity. I wonder what sort of rights a renter has in getting a landlord to do some of these things...if any. I suppose asking nicely is a good start.