Wi-Fi, or “smart” thermostats have many benefits over non-programmable thermostats as well as “programmable” thermostats that do not connect to the Internet. Like non-Wi-Fi programmable thermostats, they reduce your energy costs by allowing you to vary your temperature settings for various times of the day and/or days of the week. For example, in the winter you can set the thermostat lower when you are not home or sleeping, and higher when you are awake (the opposite is true in the summer).
However, Wi-Fi thermostats have other advantages over your non-connected thermostats that not only make them easier to operate but can also even further reduce your energy costs.
- They are easier to operate than non-Wi-Fi programmable thermostats. There is very little manual input. With standard programmable thermostats, it is estimated that 40% of owners do not program their thermostats.
- You can adjust the temperature remotely via an app on your tablet or mobile phone. For example, if you have set the temperature lower in the winter when you are out of town, you can use the app to raise the temperature when you are on the way home.
- Here’s how “smart” they are – they can actually “learn” from your behavior and adjust temperatures without your knowledge to further reduce costs. There are several types of “learning”:
- Algorithmic learning. Thermostats “learn” about your preferences and adjust the temperature based upon those preferences.
- Sensing. Some “smart” thermostats can “sense” when you are home and adjust the temperature accordingly.
- Geofencing. The thermostat senses your smartphone. So instead of you having to tell the thermostat you are on your way home, the thermostat can figure out how close you are and alter the temperature.
- Environmental adjusting. Some “smart” thermostats can detect environmental factors such as increased humidity or extreme temperature and adjust the temperature accordingly.
- You can set a Wi-Fi thermostat to alert you if the temperature goes above or below a desired temperature. This handy feature can alert you if your heating and cooling system is not working properly so you can get the system repaired before it becomes an emergency.
Here are a few other things to consider when purchasing a “smart” thermostat.
- The best time to purchase a “smart” thermostat is when you buy a new furnace or air conditioner. That way you will know the thermostat is compatible with the unit.
- If you are buying a Wi-Fi thermostat by itself, make sure it is compatible with your HVAC system.
- Not a “have to have,” but some Wi-Fi thermostats also integrate with other automation systems such as lighting or smoke detectors. They can also connect to devices such as Google Home or Amazon Alexa.
- Be forewarned that “smart” thermostats will be more expensive than standard programmable thermostats. But that initial expense will be offset over time by lower utility bills, and, of course, added convenience.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for a “Smart” Thermostat
Ravinia Plumbing’s HVAC technicians can help you select and then install the right “smart” thermostat for you, as part of or separate from installation of a furnace or air conditioner. We’ve been in business since 1928, and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical companies in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
