29 Mar What is a smart thermostat?

With thermostats, most people like to set it and forget it. But having the right temperature at the right time can save a bundle of money, as well. To help you decide if you want to invest in a Nest or Ecobee, here are three things to know about smart thermostats.

So what is a smart thermostat?

First, there are basically three types of thermostats: manual, programmable and smart.

A manual thermostat controls your home’s central heating system. That’s all it does.

On the other hand, a programmable thermostat controls the temperature in your home throughout the day according to a schedule. Like it colder when you sleep, it can do that. Want it to run less when you’re not at home, it can do that too.

Last, a smart thermostat is similar to a programmable thermostat except for one very important difference, the internet.

A smart thermostat also contains additional features, like sensors and Wi-Fi connectivity. These features improve upon the functionality of programmable and manual thermostats.

Why switch to a smart thermostat?

Because they are connected to the internet, a smart thermostat allows you to adjust your thermostat from your computer, tablet or smartphone at any time. It just needs to be connected.

You can adjust the temperature of your home remotely. Or make sure the kids don’t turn it up or down when you’re not there to watch it.

Further, installing a smart thermostat can result in significant savings by lowering energy consumption.

Smart thermostats can track both internal and external temperatures, the time the HVAC system has been running and can even notify you if your air filter needs to be replaced through its app.

Some even learn from your behavior and adjust automatically. This reduces overall energy consumption.

What brands of smart thermostats is best?

Nest introduced the first smart thermostat in 2011. Since then tech companies and traditional HVAC companies have jumped into the market.

With an average price point between $150 and $300, it seems like too much for a thermostat. But it will recoup its cost.

Some of the easiest to use and best thermostats are made by Ecobee, Google Nest, Emerson, Honeywell, iDevices, Johnson Controls, and LUX/GEO, according to CNET. 

If you’re interested in learning more about thermostats and improving efficiency in your home, contact Tennessee Mechanical Corporation to explore options on thermostats and heating and air units.