Is Your Programmable Thermostat Too Smart? Look At These Bells And Whistles

Is Your Programmable Thermostat Too Smart? Look At These Bells And Whistles

Technological advancements have changed the way we communicate, and not just in terms of person-to-person. Advancements in programmable thermostat technology allow homeowners easier, real-time access to their home’s temperature settings, and more. If you’re in the market for a new programmable thermostat, look for devices that help you maintain control over energy consumption, while offering these bells and whistles.

Connected thermostats

Wi-Fi-enabled programmable thermostats give homeowners the means to review temperature settings and make adjustments from a smartphone or via a computer with internet access. These types of devices allow you to make fine-tuned adjustments should the temperatures change drastically, for instance. Just check the settings on your smartphone, and make adjustments for savings. Or, if your schedule changes and you expect to return home before the thermostat will give the furnace the signal to cycle on, instead of returning to a cold home, change the settings via your Wi-Fi enabled thermostat. One other perk connected devices offer is a web-based program that’s easy to view and change, as compared to small, often confusing touchscreen panels on the thermostat.

Learning thermostats

Smart thermostats are generally also Wi-Fi-enabled devices; however, they offer unique control over the home’s energy consumption and your energy savings. These devices “read” the patterns of heating and cooling usage over several days, and automatically adjust settings to ensure maximum savings. They’re ideal for homeowners with consistent schedules, and who may not want to or may not have the time to adjust settings.

Other advancements

While not a programmable thermostat, some utility companies have employed technology to develop a “smart” meter to further improve energy consumption in the home. With a smart meter installed in homes, utility companies have greater access to usage details, as the meter allows two-way communication. Ultimately, smart meters allow for a more efficient way to deliver electricity, control peak demand usage, improve the power restoration process after blackouts, lower electricity costs, and more. If you have one of these installed, the utility company may provide you with a thermostat as well.

For more information about programmable thermostats, contact Air-Tro. We serve greater Pasadena homeowners.