If you live in an older home, you’re probably used to a dial or slider analog thermostat. While these can technically still “get the job done,” they won’t give you the benefits of new and improved programmable thermostats, which are digital and offer so much more in the way of heating and cooling for your home. If the thought of change overwhelms you, you’re not alone. Many homeowners just like you are nervous about switching to a new thermostat! Once they do, though, they’re glad they did, and most wonder why they waited so long!
Not only are programmable thermostats a great way to make your space more comfortable, but they’re an easy way to lower your heating and cooling bills, too.
Here’s what you need to know about this simple upgrade!
How Programmable Thermostats Work
Standard thermostats are pretty simple — you turn the temperature up or down on the control panel and the system adjusts. Programmable thermostats, however, are a bit different. Instead of always adjusting these thermostats manually, you can program them to adjust the temperature at different times of the day. For example, the thermostat will warm the house just before you get home in the winter, and cool it down before you go to bed in the summer.
Programmable thermostats are easy to program, install, and use. You can even do it yourself pretty easily!
Why Install a Programmable Thermostat?
In addition to simplicity, programmable thermostats have a variety of benefits. Here are a few reasons our AC company likes to recommend them.
1. Efficiency
The truth is that your HVAC settings don’t need to be the same all day long. Even the newest homes with state-of-the-art insulation fluctuate in temperature throughout the day, according to the sun, the external environment, and the internal activities. If you program your thermostat to adjust to those natural changes, you can save a lot of money and energy. The average household saves up to 1% of their energy bill for every degree the thermostat is set down or up, depending on the season, for a given eight-hour period. That’s some serious savings over a few years!
2. Accessibility
While programmable thermostats may sound complicated, they’re actually very easy to use once you get the hang of it. And since they’re compatible with both new and older heating equipment, they can be installed in virtually any home. Many new programmable thermostats also have corresponding phone applications so you can control the thermostat right from your phone, without ever getting up!
3. Comfort
A programmable thermostat adjusts your settings based on times you’re awake, asleep, or away, returning temperatures to the desired levels according to your schedule. This helps keep your home comfortable all year long, without a lot of extra effort on your part. Programmable thermostats adjust to your needs to help automate and streamline your home during each season of the year.
4. Flexibility
If you have a multi-level home, you’ll be glad to know that zoned thermostat systems offer maximum temperature control for your home’s various spaces. Set little-used rooms and floors to stay cooler while warming up your high-traffic areas during the winter, and vice-versa during the summer.
5. Learning ability
Some programmable thermostats can “learn” and adapt to your schedule. These are great for people with irregular schedules or those who often forget to adjust the settings on their programmable thermostats. Brands like Nest allow you to focus on energy savings and track your energy use in real-time, too.
These thermostats are Wi-Fi enabled and can be programmed remotely from your smartphone or computer. No more worrying whether you remembered to turn the heat down when you have one of these guys!
Ask Your AC Company About Programmable Thermostats
If you’re interested in saving money on your utility bill, ask your trusted local AC company about programmable thermostats. These simple devices are a great way to enjoy a more efficient, comfortable home without having to remember to adjust your thermostat each day. If you’re looking for information from an AC company in Yankton, SD, our team can recommend the best type of programmable thermostat for your family and help you get the equipment you need. Ready to learn more? Schedule an appointment with our team today! Our AC company services homes and businesses in Yankton, Vermillion, and the surrounding SD communities.
