The HVAC system in your home in The Villages, Florida, is responsible for much of your energy use. You can reduce your utility bills and feel more comfortable with a programmable or smart thermostat. Every homeowner should know about how programmable thermostats work, the most common models, and the differences between a programmable and a smart thermostat.
How Programmable Thermostats Work
A programmable thermostat can help you control your home’s temperature automatically. Some programmable thermostats let you choose a different schedule for weekdays and weekends, while others have different options for every day of the week.
Settings for vacations are available on many programmable thermostats, as well. Programmable models are more expensive than traditional ones that have simple levers or dials. But they can pay for themselves in a few years through energy savings. They also offer many more options.
Common Programmable Thermostat Options
Many programmable thermostats can connect to other thermostats in your home through zoning. You can set different temperatures for separate areas or zones and avoid heating or cooling unoccupied rooms. Everyone can choose the temperature they prefer for their bedroom. As a result, you won’t have to deal with arguments among family members over thermostat settings.
Thermostats with zoning capabilities work well with ductless HVAC systems that have more than one indoor unit instead of ductwork. These systems are similar to central air conditioners or heat pumps. But they have a single outdoor unit that connects to several indoor units.
If you have a central HVAC system, you can install a series of dampers in your ductwork to send conditioned air where it’s needed most. Choose a programmable thermostat with Wi-Fi and control it with your computer, smartphone or a remote. Some models let you choose a password so guests and kids can’t change your settings without permission. Many also have built-in tutorials, voice recognition and other great features.
Popular Programmable Thermostat Models
The Côr Wi-Fi thermostat can give you energy usage reports and customized energy-saving tips to help reduce your utility bills. It can also control hybrid heating systems with electric and natural gas components. It offers:
- A color display
- Weather forecasts
- Maintenance reminders
- Humidity control options
The Edge thermostat has a sleek design and seven faceplate options to match your home’s decor. It can manage your ventilation, airflow and indoor air quality along with the temperatures in your home. Other options include zoning, a sensor for your outdoor air temperature, and maintenance reminders for accessories like UV lamps and dehumidifiers as well as your HVAC system.
The ComfortZone II lets you choose schedules for up to eight zones. It can:
- Adjust dampers in your ductwork
- Monitor the air temperature in your home’s ducts
- Control your humidity levels
- Switch between heating and cooling automatically
Differences Between Programmable and Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat does everything that most programmable thermostats do. It can also connect to other smart controls and appliances to create a smart home. Motion sensors and cameras give the device information about your family’s routines. You won’t have to spend time figuring out how to program a smart thermostat because it can create its own settings based on your movements and preferences. It can also make changes based on factors like the outdoor weather or your humidity levels.
Sun Kool Air Conditioning can help you find the best programmable or smart thermostat for your home or business. We’re a local Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, and we have more than 25 years of heating and cooling experience. We can help you with installing, repairing, and maintaining a variety of equipment and accessories. Call us anytime at (352) 330-1067 for reliable, quality service.
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