We’ve told you many times about the benefits of “smart” (aka Wi-Fi) thermostats that allow you to control your home’s heating and cooling through a smart device such as a phone or tablet. To summarize:
- They make you more comfortable. You preset the temperature to what you want it to be. Smart thermostats can also control the humidity.
- They save you money. You can save up to 8% on your annual heating and cooling bills with a Wi-Fi thermostat, according to ENERGY STAR. That will more than offset the cost of the thermostat. And since the thermostat will reduce strain on your HVAC equipment, that extends their lives and saves you money. You might also be eligible for energy rebates
- They are good for the environment. Less energy expense equals less energy used equals good for the environment.
- They are simple to use. They’re easily controllable from your phone or your tablet, whether you are sitting at home or thousands of miles away
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a “Smart” Thermostat
1. Compatibility
Obviously, your smart thermostat must be compatible with your furnace. If you purchase the thermostat with the unit—problem solved. If not, make sure the thermostat will work with your equipment.
2. Learning Capabilities
A Wi-Fi thermostat’s ability to reduce utility bills is enhanced if the thermostat has certain learning capabilities. These include adjusting based on factors such as whether it thinks you are home or away, how long it takes to heat or cool your home, and even changes in the outside weather. Other learning tricks:
- Movement sensors based upon whether you are in a specific room
- Geofencing to recognize where your smartphone is and make adjustments based on that.
3. Alerts
Make sure you purchase a smart thermostat that can send alerts on things such as:
- Energy use
- Filter changes
- Maintenance needs
- Power outages
- System failure
- Temperature trends
4. Integration
If possible, make sure your smart thermostat can be integrated with other “smart” products in your home such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Also see if they can integrate with smart home assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home (think music playing from your thermostat).
5. Rebates
Utility companies will offer rebates on ENERGY STAR-rated smart thermostats.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for “Smart” Thermostats
Ravinia Plumbing’s HVAC technicians can help you select and then install smart thermostats either in combination with or independent from a furnace. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 96 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
