The Low-Down on Smart Thermostats

Ten years ago the idea of being able to turn your home air conditioning system on as you leave the office would be unheard of. Now, homes are getting smarter each and every day. Countless options are available to sync electronics, lights, and even your slow cooker together. Technology in the home makes things easier and more efficient especially when it comes to your HVAC system.

Smart home systems allow for you as the consumer to create a customized schedule for your appliances and control their energy use. One of the best ways to use a system like this is by replacing your conventional thermostat with a smart one. A smart thermostat allows you to change the temperature or set-up a schedule directly from your smart phone. The beauty of a smart thermostat is the flexibility it gives you as a homeowner. If you’re running late from the office simply inform the thermostat through the app and it will delay, it’s normal process.

Other benefits of a smart thermostat can include:

• Access via your smart phone, tablet, or computer.
• Monitoring of habits to create reports and find money saving opportunities.
• Algorithm to automatically adjust system in accordance with weather.
• Month-by-month in depth comparisons.
  Vacation programming.
• Programmable schedule, adaptable to changes.

Another key feature of a smart thermostat is that it senses your needs before you do. Many integrate the forecast directly into their system and have a humidity sensing ability to make changes as needed. Many are easy to understand as well and have screens big enough for you to see everything. The system we most commonly recommend (the Carrier Cor) can be installed with almost any system including hybrid heat systems. The thermostat can also remind you when filters need to be changed, making your life a little easier.

Making the switch to a smarter thermostat doesn’t mean you have to go all in on technology. There are several products on the market that look incredibly similar to basic thermostats. These are Wi-Fi enabled and can be connected via an app as well. If you’re interested in switching to a smarter system, then feel free to contact one of our staff to discuss your options!