Why Is Installing a Smart Thermostat a Smart Idea?
The new year is underway, and even though the holidays have come and gone, homeowners can still give themselves the gift of a new smart thermostat. Smart thermostats have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially as the technology has improved and become more affordable. That said, many people still need clarification on what sets them apart from manual and programmable thermostats. This article will outline the key features that give smart thermostats an edge over ordinary thermostats, their benefits, and a few signs that the home is overdue for a thermostat replacement.
What Makes Smart Thermostats Different?
A smart thermostat serves the same basic functions as a programmable or manual thermostat but with a host of added features that give it far greater capabilities. Smart thermostats can be controlled remotely via a smartphone, tablet, or other internet-connected device. Most can also be integrated with other smart home systems, such as voice-activated assistants.
Smart thermostats have many energy-saving features. Many smart thermostats use geofencing, which can sense when homeowners are getting close to home and start heating or cooling the home accordingly. Some models also feature energy usage reports, performance data, learning capabilities (tracking usage habits and making automatic adjustments for improved efficiency), and occupancy sensors (to prevent wasting energy on heating or cooling an empty home).
What Are Some Smart Thermostat Benefits?
Most smart thermostat features are designed primarily to improve energy efficiency – and they succeed mightily. Homeowners who install a smart thermostat can expect to save on their heating and cooling costs. The more feature-heavy models tend to save even more energy since heating and cooling represent the bulk of a home’s energy usage, which can amount to a significant chunk of change.
Smart thermostats also improve comfort and convenience. Homeowners no longer have to remember to manually adjust the thermostat or reprogram the schedule when leaving the house, going to bed, or going on vacation. Models with performance tracking can also alert homeowners to possible issues with the HVAC system before they develop into more significant problems.
Signs It’s Time for Thermostat Replacement
Some homeowners may want to install a smart thermostat just to reap the benefits listed above. But for others, the need for a new thermostat might be when they want to switch.
An old or faulty thermostat can lead to a less comfortable home, higher energy bills, other issues with the system, and even a breakdown. A few signs of a faulty thermostat that indicate a new thermostat may be needed include:
- Short-cycling (the system runs very quickly before shutting off).
- The thermostat won’t turn on.
- The house never seems to reach the desired temperature.
- Incorrect temperature readings (homeowners can test this by placing a thermometer near the thermostat and seeing if the readings match up).
- The thermostat is too old.
If homeowners notice any of these signs, they should call a professional to diagnose the issue. Some of these issues can be caused by other problems with the HVAC system. But if it can be resolved with a new thermostat installation, it is a perfect opportunity to boost the home’s comfort and efficiency with a smart thermostat.