Considering a Smart Thermostat? What You Need to Know

September 08, 2021

When the weather outside is blazing hot, your home's temperature is important. Do you want to ensure your home's temperature is at a comfortable level but do not want to break the bank? Even when the weather is hot, you have some ways you can save on your home's cooling needs. One way is a smart thermostat. The following are some things you should know.

What Is a Smart Thermostat?

A smart thermostat is similar to a traditional thermostat in that you can control your home's temperature. Unlike a traditional thermostat in which you manually change the temperature using a panel on the wall, a smart thermostat allows you to control the temperature from any location using your mobile device.

You can set a smart thermostat to turn on and off in certain rooms of your home based on your schedule. If you want to cool your home on your way home from work, you can turn the thermostat to a lower temperature before you leave your office. If the weather suddenly cools off, you can easily change the temperature from your mobile device before you get home.

Also, a smart thermostat also can display your energy usage. The software or app your thermostat utilizes can provide you with valuable information that shows you how much energy your home's HVAC uses. You can even compare and contrast your HVAC trends on different months.

How Does a Thermostat Save Money?

A smart thermostat can save you money if you pay attention to the usage data provided. Based on your usage, you may be able to notice trends where reprogramming your thermostat is beneficial. You may have to reprogram the thermostat every few months based on the weather changes.

Your smart thermostat may also have an away feature that can also help save you money. This feature automatically adjusts your home's temperature based on the outside conditions.

You can also save money due to the convenience the smart thermostat provides. If you simply do not feel like moving throughout your home to change your thermostat, you could let the air continue to run, costing you money. With a smart thermostat, you can pull out your phone and change the temperature without having to leave your chair.

Are Smart Thermostats Expensive?

A smart thermostat is an investment. Traditional thermostats are very affordable. Smart thermostats can cost several hundred dollars for the nicest models with all the bells and whistles. Though not a major investment, you may find the need to budget for a smart thermostat upgrade.

Are Smart Thermostats Environmentally Friendly?

As your energy efficiency improves using a smart thermostat, you also do great things for the environment. You use fewer fossil fuels once your HVAC becomes more energy-efficient. Reducing these emissions helps improve the quality of the air, reduces air pollution, and has a positive impact on climate change.

How Do You Choose a Smart Thermostat?

Every brand has a variety of features to help you save energy on your home's HVAC usage. The type of thermostat depends highly on your needs and how many features you wish to have. As you research, check to make sure any model you consider is compatible with your HVAC system.

You should also look at the level of security a smart thermostat offers. Make sure the smart thermostat you want has an Energy Star label to ensure you get the most efficient model.

If you have any additional questions about a smart thermostat and how it can benefit your home, please contact Service 1 Inc. Plumbing Heating & A/C. We look forward to helping you choose the right smart thermostat for your home and needs.