Which Programmable Thermostat is Right for Me?
Even if you have a programmable thermostat, you may be shocked to discover how many options are out there. You can keep it simple with a basic model, or spend more to get improved functionality while you are online and mobile. Depending on your budget and your heating and cooling needs, you can find a programmable thermostat that will save energy while keeping cool or warm.
Why Get a Programmable Thermostat?
Although your HVAC efficiency depends the most on how you use it, adding a programmable thermostat to your system can make it a lot easier for you. With a manual thermostat, you have to turn the temperature up or down every time you need it. You may forget and leave the house while the air conditioner is working as if you are at home. This can lead to a lot of unnecessary energy waste. With a programmable thermostat, you can set different times of the day when you expect to use the system more or less. This allows you to keep your home comfortable when you are home, without having to heat or cool the home as much while you are gone.
Basic Models
As with many parts of your Sacramento HVAC system, cost tends to guide people’s choices for programmable thermostats. The good news is that the most basic models start around $25. For the price of a handful of cups of coffee, you can improve your energy efficiency. Most models will offer programming that you can quickly design, with different settings for weekdays and weekends. For the investment of a little more money, you may get a thermostat that allows you to alter settings based on the individual day, or several times throughout the day.
Smart Thermostats
If you are willing to invest more into your system, you could receive a great deal of convenience. The top of the line thermostats run about $200-$250 and are designed to give you better control over your energy usage. They hook into your Wi-Fi system to provide you with data about your energy consumption and efficiency. Although some of these thermostats are more complicated to install and set up, the ultimate goal is to simplify the process and increase your benefit. With a smart thermostat, you can log into your home system even while out of the house to check your usage and adjust settings, as necessary. The biggest difference in these models is the way you are expected to use them. Some expect you to make your own settings, as you would with a basic model. Others will track your usage over a few days and create settings organically.
If you do not have a programmable thermostat, or you have an older model, you should take a moment to consider all the latest choices on the market. A better programmable thermostat can help you reduce your energy consumption without having to sacrifice your home’s comfort. To learn more about programmable thermostats for your Sacramento home’s HVAC system, contact Ace Plumbing.