smart thermostat

In today’s modern age, just about anything can be operated through our phones and computers. The latest craze in homeowner tech is smart thermostats. Today we’re going to talk about how smart thermostats work, and why it’s a good idea to invest in one. We’ll also talk about why it’s best to get your new system professionally installed.

How does a smart thermostat work?

A smart thermostat uses a wifi connection so you can control your home’s thermostat settings on an electronic device. This means that you can change your thermostat remotely. If you’re someone who travels in the winter for the holidays, you need a smart thermostat. Having your heating system malfunction or die while you’re gone is the last thing you want. It could cause frozen pipes, which could lead to thousands of dollars in damages. Since a smart thermostat monitors your HVAC system, it could prevent this catastrophe.

There’s a variety of smart thermostats out there that come with lots of different features. Some of them track your heating and cooling habits to record your yearly energy usage. Others adjust temperatures automatically based on time of day or learned preferences. Higher-end models can even alert you to possible issues with your HVAC system. Others can make sure your house is at the perfect temperature when you get home by tracking when you leave work. As you can see, smart thermostats offer a lot more than standard thermostats.

How much do they cost?

Most smart thermostats cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $100 to $300. All things considered, that’s not too expensive. Although pricier models come with more advanced features, even the most affordable smart thermostat is a huge upgrade.

Is a smart thermostat worth it?

We recommend smart thermostats because they save you money on energy bills. Using one saves about 10 to 12 percent on heating bills, and about 15 percent on cooling. This adds up to an annual savings of $130 to $145. That means your smart thermostat pays for itself within a year or two of purchase and installation. The smart thermostat lifespan is around 10 years, which means it can save you well over $1,000 in energy expenses.

Benefits of professional installation

It’s always a good idea to hire a professional to install your smart thermostat. Here’s why. Most smart thermostats need a c-wire. Although a lot of newer homes are equipped with these, many old houses don’t have them. If you don’t know a lot about your electrical system, installing a smart thermostat can create a lot of problems for your HVAC system. Some of the most common problems we’ve come across are strange noises, HVAC systems powering on and off without warning, constant running, and delayed starts. If you leave installation to a professional, you won’t have to worry about any of these complications. Additionally, you’ll have someone on-hand to help you learn all about your new gadget.

If you’re looking to update your home’s thermostat system, Ron’s Mechanical is here to help. Our skilled technicians can install your smart thermostat and help you access all its features. Give us a call today at ​(952) 445-8585.