Smart thermostats can help you save money on energy bills and gain more control over your home’s heating and cooling. They can also help you optimize your home’s temperature for comfort and efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits for switching to a smart thermostat.
Smart thermostats can:
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- Learn your temperature preferences and establish a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you are asleep or away.
- Learn your behaviors and help you set schedules that save the most energy.
- Adjust heating and cooling according to when a home is occupied or is about to be occupied. This reduces the use of heating and cooling systems when nobody is home for significant periods of time.
- Be programmed with your house’s energy profile, which includes factors such as size, location, and methods of heating/cooling.
- Have easy-to-see touchscreens for trouble-free programming.
- Keep records of how many hours they run, and you can access the reports through their companion apps.
Smart thermostats can also help you:
- Monitor and adjust your settings from anywhere.
- Receive alerts and notifications.
- Improve indoor air quality.
Smart thermostats can have some downsides, including:
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- Cost: Smart thermostats can be three to four times more expensive than conventional thermostats. They may also require professional installation.
- Compatibility: Not all smart thermostats work with all heating and cooling systems. Your existing system may not be compatible.
- Technology: You may need to be comfortable using technology to get the most out of a smart thermostat.
- Security: Security can be an issue.
- Power stealing: Smart thermostats can draw electricity from the furnace, which can short-circuit old furnaces.
- Programs: Some programs that provide money towards the cost of a smart thermostat may allow the energy company to control your thermostat during peak periods.
However, some argue that you can earn back the cost of a smart thermostat through electrical savings. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and reduce energy usage while you’re away. They can also check the weather and respond.
What if the internet goes down?
Smart thermostats can still work if the internet is down. They will act like a regular thermostat and you can adjust the temperature manually. However, you won’t be able to use the advanced features or remotely control the thermostat until it reconnects to the internet. Smart thermostats are hardwired like traditional thermostats so they need a Wi-Fi connection to work remotely. When the Wi-Fi connection is lost, the thermostat will still be able to control the heating and cooling system. However, you will need to set and change the temperature directly on the thermostat. Smart thermostats are designed to be connected to the internet and operated remotely through a smartphone app or other means of remote control.
What temperature setting is best?
According to Energy Star, the best temperature to set your thermostat at during the fall season is somewhere between 70 and 78 degrees, depending on the temperature outside. A system set to 72-74 degrees in the fall can keep you comfortable while the weather shifts over to fall temperatures.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a 78 degree Fahrenheit warm weather temperature and a 68 degree Fahrenheit cool weather setting to save energy.
If you keep your home too warm, humidity levels will increase, which can also lead to indoor air quality issues.
You should also consider changing your air filters regularly (at least once every two months), closing the blinds on the sunny side of the house, and using ceiling fans (set to a counterclockwise rotation).
In addition to upgrading your thermostat, you should also consider the following to reduce the cost of energy:
Maintain your system
Create a routine ac maintenance schedule to ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency. This includes cleaning, replacing parts, and other tasks.
Insulate your space
Insulate your home to keep cool air in. This will help your air conditioning unit work more efficiently.
Seal your ducts
Inspect your duct system for leaks. Leaky ducts can cause your HVAC system to work harder and consume more energy.
Change your air filters
Check your filters monthly and replace them every 30-90 days. Dirty filters can cause your system to work harder.
Use a programmable thermostat
You can adjust the temperature by single degrees without impacting your comfort. You can also program the thermostat to cool your space when you’re home.
Install ceiling fans
Ceiling fans don’t use much energy, but they can help circulate conditioned air.
Use space heaters
Consider using a space heater instead of heating your entire home.
In the quest for energy efficiency and cost savings, upgrading to a smart thermostat is a smart move. With the power to regulate your home’s temperature with precision and adapt to your lifestyle, these cutting-edge devices are revolutionizing the way we manage our comfort. By taking advantage of the benefits offered by smart thermostats, you’re not only contributing to a greener, more sustainable future but also putting money back in your pocket.
If you’re ready to make the switch and start enjoying the advantages of a smart thermostat, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Cooper’s Plumbing & Air. Their team of skilled professionals can guide you through the selection, installation, and optimization process, ensuring you get the most out of this transformative technology.
Take the first step towards a more efficient and cost-effective home environment today. Contact Cooper’s Plumbing & Air and embark on the journey towards a greener, more comfortable future. Upgrade to a smart thermostat and experience the benefits today!
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