In today’s world of ever-evolving smart devices, thermostats are designed to do more than simply maintain your heating and cooling needs. These newer devices can sustain a more consistent environment and help lower your energy bill. If you are thinking of upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, HomePro Inspections would like to provide some insight into their differences and potential benefits.
What’s wrong with a traditional thermostat?
Traditional thermostats only allow you to set a desired temperature in your home. It’s about as basic as you can get. If a temperature change deviates from your setting, the thermostat sends a signal to your HVAC systems. Even if your thermostat is reliable at keeping your home at a set temperature, it may not be the ideal device for your preferred comfort level.
Technology has given us systems to learn your preferences, know when there is no one home, and adjust your home's temperature and comfort level to meet your preferences and needs.
What is the difference?
Programmable thermostat:
· Allows you to vary the temperature for specific times of the day.
· Customizable for weekdays and weekends.
· Automatically adjusts based on your settings.
A Programmable Thermostat
Adjusting your temperature lower during the heating season and higher during the cooling season while you are away at work or sleeping can save you up to 10% on your heating and cooling costs. Programmable thermostats allow you to adjust temperatures to your comfort level before you return home from work or school and wake up in the morning.
Smart Thermostat:
· A more intuitive approach to controlling your home’s temperature.
· It learns your behaviors and adjusts the temperature based on what it learns.
· Wi-Fi enabled; it adjusts manually using your computer or smartphone.
· Provides analytics that allow you to monitor efficiency and energy use.
A smart thermostat
With a smart thermostat, you can access your settings from anywhere and make changes to meet your needs using your computer or a smartphone.
Your smart thermostat system will generate monthly performance reports showing usage and comparisons based on the month and settings.
An example of monthly data and usage for a smart thermostat
Which thermostat is best for me?
Do your homework and research which thermostat will work best for you. Most sources will claim efficiency and energy savings. By using your thermostat’s functions and features, you will see savings with either the programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat.
Check with your local utility company for potential rebates or incentives that may be available if you switch to a programmable or smart thermostat. Some utilities also offer discounts based on your thermostat type.
Summary
Whether you install a programmable or smart thermostat, you will see savings in your heating and cooling costs. These devices can save you money and keep your home more comfortable.
At HomePro Inspections, our home inspectors are trained to inspect all areas of the home. Any issues found with your thermostat or HVAC systems are documented in your home inspection report and recommended for resolution by yourself or a qualified professional.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942 or use our online “Schedule Now” feature to schedule an appointment.