Programmable thermostats are precise digital thermostats that allow you to create personalized heating and cooling schedules. Many modern thermostats support advanced features beyond just scheduling and even feature machine learning. There are also Wi-Fi-capable programmable thermostats available. These smart thermostats can make an even more significant difference in how you interact with your HVAC system.
Improved Home Comfort
Perhaps the best reason to invest in a programmable thermostat is to enjoy even greater comfort. Use your thermostat to dial in your perfect temperature setting. Some models can also measure and even adjust relative humidity (RH). This innovation allows you to set a “feels like” temperature. It’s superior to a rigid setting that may feel different from day to day. You can easily set up different profiles for the time of day, day of the week, and so on. Consider a model that supports remote sensors. Multiple remote sensors will give you more accurate readings than a centrally located singular sensor. If you have a zoned system, your new programmable thermostat will make it much easier to control those zones independently.
Reduced Household Carbon Footprint
Many people believe their automobile contributes most to their carbon footprint. They’re often surprised to learn it’s their home cooling and heating. Air conditioning is the number one contributor to the average American household’s carbon footprint and is a growing global problem. Worldwide use of air conditioning now generates more greenhouse gas emissions than the aviation industry. To help offset this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat. If everyone upgraded today, it would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 13 billion pounds a year. In addition, Project Drawdown estimates it would lower carbon dioxide emissions by about seven gigatons by the year 2050.
Lower HVAC Operating Costs
The Department of Energy (DOE) advises all homeowners to upgrade to a programmable thermostat. It is not only better for the environment but will probably lower your cooling and heating costs. The DOE estimates that the average homeowner can reduce their annual costs by up to 10%. To achieve this, adjust the thermostat 7-10 degrees beyond your normal setting for at least eight hours a day. That’s easy to do with a programmable thermostat. Many households can achieve savings between 12% and 15% with an optimized schedule.
This is possible through a feature called setback. It allows the thermostat to lower or raise the temperature and then set it back based on your schedule. For instance, in summer, set your thermostat to switch to a higher temperature an hour after bedtime and set it back an hour before you wake.
Many programmable thermostats offer additional features that maximize these savings. A thermostat with a smart setback can monitor the system and adjust it for increased efficiency. Many models not only have day and week schedules but also hold mode, vacation mode, and personal profiles. Geofencing is another popular feature. GPS lets the thermostat adjust your schedule dynamically based on whether you’re home and even your expected arrival time.
Remote Monitoring and Control
If you opt for a Wi-Fi thermostat, you can monitor and control your home’s temperature from a smartphone and many other devices. Consider a scenario where you’ve left on a trip and forgot to put the system in vacation mode. With a Wi-Fi thermostat, this is not a problem. You can set it with just several swipes on your phone.
Alerts and Notifications
Wi-Fi connectivity allows for two-way communication. That means that your thermostat can push notifications and alerts to your phone through email or text. Many modern thermostats provide reminders for maintenance, like tune-ups and filter changes. Some provide reports about energy usage and alerts for unusual usage. There are even models that will alert you to incoming severe weather or possible power outages.
Learning
Many smart thermostats support machine learning, and these features have gotten even more sophisticated thanks to cloud computing. The aforementioned smart setback feature is one example of thermostat learning. Additionally, some of the top models on the market can learn your family’s schedule and habits and program themselves for optimal efficiency. That removes almost any barrier to using a programmable thermostat. Modern HVAC equipment is getting more sophisticated as well. These systems provide the thermostat with more control. For instance, your smart thermostat can adjust fan speed and damper status to save even more.
Monitor Energy Usage
Smart programmable thermostats can often track your energy consumption. They collect this data and either store it locally or in the cloud. You can view it anytime to see your energy usage across various periods. Many models even provide greater insight through energy reporting. These reports have gotten quite sophisticated, and you can often set the parameters. This feature can give you a clearer picture of where your household is saving and where it’s wasting.
Preventative Maintenance and Repairs
A rise in energy consumption is often the first sign you have an HVAC problem. This increased consumption could traditionally take a month or more to notice. A thermostat with energy monitoring can tell you about it as soon as it happens. Perhaps it’s just a blip, but if a pattern forms, you know to call a HVAC professional to come out and inspect your system.
Clogged HVAC filters are a leading cause of increased energy consumption. Many programmable thermostats will remind you so that you don’t forget to check and change them as needed. Some do this on a schedule. Others can actually make recommendations based on changes to airflow.
Fewer Unexpected Repairs and Longer Equipment Life
A programmable thermostat often leads to better maintenance habits. It also reduces wear and tear, making your system less susceptible to sudden breakdown. This results in longer equipment life and lower total cost of ownership. Many programmable thermostats can also help you determine when it’s time to upgrade. They can do this by informing you how inefficient your system has become since you purchased it.
Rebates and Energy Programs
Another exciting aspect of programmable thermostats is that many homeowners can recoup the initial investment quickly. One way is through rebates, which are typically available through your local utility company. You can check with them or the ENERGY STAR website. You’ll typically need to choose an ENERGY STAR thermostat. That also gives you peace of mind, as an independent lab has tested certified thermostats for energy savings.
Your local utility company may also offer a demand response program. Participation is optional. If you opt-in, your provider can automatically adjust your thermostat within a small range during peak electrical usage. In return, homeowners earn credits that help them save further.
Contact the Professionals
At White Mechanical, Inc., we have served the residents of Foothill Ranch, CA and the surrounding areas since 2002. In addition to helping our customers upgrade to smart and programable thermostats, we install, repair, and maintain heating and cooling systems. We also provide indoor air quality and duct cleaning services as well as offer maintenance agreements. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
