demand response / central air-conditioning program
frequently asked questions: residential and religious organization
Q:
How does the state-of-the-art technology work?
A:
The technology enables Con Edison to access your central air conditioning unit by using a radio signal, similar to the one used in a digital paging system. For more information about the technology, please click on the thermostat button on this page.
Q:
When will Con Edison adjust my air conditioning?
A:
Only when we really need to. By adjusting your temperature and that of thousands of other homes and religious institutions the demand for electricity can be reduced. Typically, the adjustment will not last longer than four hours. And you can override the adjustment if you need to.
Q:
Will Con Edison turn off my air conditioner?
A:
No. We will only cycle the compressor on and off. Your fan will continue to operate and you may not even notice that your air conditioner has been adjusted.
Q:
How do I program my new Carrier thermostat?
A:
When your thermostat is installed it will be programmed according to your preferences. Detailed programming instructions are in the user’s manual that came with your thermostat. You may also access your thermostat on our Web site at www.coned.com/cool by selecting the thermostat link. This section uses pictures, descriptions, and highlighted controls to show you how to program your thermostat.
Q:
What if I don’t want to use the programming feature?
A:
Simply engage the “hold” feature and control your cooling levels by adjusting the set point. You can also adjust the set point on the Internet when you are away.
Q:
What if the new Carrier thermostat makes me feel warmer or cooler than I did before?
A:
There may be a slight difference in the temperature sensor between your old thermostat and your new one. You can change the temperature settings in the program or set point to suit your own comfort. For example, if you were comfortable with your central air conditioning set at 78 degrees, but feel cold with your new thermostat set at the same temperature, change the setting to 79 degrees and see how that feels. You will find the proper comfort setting you desire with some minor adjustments.
Q:
What if my air conditioning stops working?
A:
Sometimes a problem may occur with the way the thermostat has been programmed. Or the breakdown could be caused by a mechanical problem with your cooling equipment that is unrelated to your thermostat. If you have a problem and think it might be related to the thermostat, please call us toll free at 1-866-521-8600.
Q:
What is the thin rectangular-shaped box with an antenna that is mounted to the air handler?
A:
This is the communications I/O device. It provides for the two-way communication between your thermostat and the Internet. This equipment should not be moved or handled.
Q:
How do I access my thermostat on the Internet?
A:
Log on to www.coned.com/cool and click the customer log-in button. Once logged on, you can see what the current temperature is, change the temperature set point, review your current program, or reprogram the thermostat. Internet access is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Q:
How will Con Edison adjust my air conditioning?
A:
We will send a radio signal page to your thermostat to cycle your compressor off and on. Con Edison will not shut off your central air conditioner. Your fan will continue to operate, so that air can continue to circulate.
Q:
How warm will my place get?
A:
You may not even notice that your air conditioner has been adjusted. At most, the temperature may increase three or more degrees. After curtailment, your temperature will quickly return to its set temperature.
Q:
How will I know that my air conditioner has been adjusted?
A:
The digital screen on the thermostat will read “curtailment.” The thermostat screen will also count backward and will display the icon “time left,” so that you will know how much time is left before your thermostat returns to its pre-set temperature.
Q:
What are the dimensions of the thermostat?
A:
The thermostat is 7.5 inches by 4.25 inches.
Q:
How many thermostats may I receive?
A:
You will receive one thermostat for each separate control system.
Q:
Does the thermostat control both the heating and cooling systems?
A:
If you currently have a thermostat that controls both your heating and cooling systems, then your new Carrier thermostat may also be able to control both.
Q:
Are damper systems eligible?
A:
No.
Q:
How long will it take to install the thermostat?
A:
The thermostat can usually be installed within two hours.
Q:
Why is Con Edison giving away free thermostats?
A:
The programmable thermostat is a helpful way to effectively manage electricity usage.
Q:
Does the thermostat communication device use a telephone line or a computer line?
A:
No. Con Edison uses a wireless two-way paging network operated by SkyTel to communicate with your thermostat. It does not require either a telephone or computer line. When you communicate with your thermostat via the Internet, your instructions are carried over this two-way paging network as well.
Q:
How do I override Con Edison's adjustment?
A:
You simply use the temperature down adjustment button which is the lower of the two buttons located on the far bottom right of the thermostat. Press the down button until the curtailment message that appears on your thermostat disappears and you will no longer be under the Con Edison adjustment.
Q:
Is there a monthly charge or hidden costs?
A:
No.
Q:
How is a power curtailment determined?
A:
Con Edison or the New York State Independent System Operator (NYISO) determine when to initiate a power curtailment to customers. The NYISO is responsible for ensuring a safe and reliable electric transmission system for the people of New York State. For more information about NYISO, visit www.nyiso.com.
Q:
After the thermostat is installed, who do I call if I have any service-related questions?
A:
You may call 1-866- 521-8600 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. If you require immediate assistance at any other time, call 1-866-691-0374.
Q:
Does the thermostat come with a warranty?
A:
The Carrier thermostat comes with a one-year warranty.
Call us
1-866-521-8600
Contact Us
Get a smart thermostat for free. Call or email us for more information on the program.
