SmartThermostat_Blog.jpg

Did you know that a smart thermostat is different than a programmable thermostat? Here is the basic breakdown: The benefits of a programmable thermostat include adjusting your home or business’ temperature at a time variable. These thermostats help conduct a heating and cooling agenda for your space without manually shifting the setting every time. In layman’s terms, you can set the temperature to a schedule.

However, a smart thermostat takes this concept a step further. It remotely adjusts the temperature from a WiFi-enabled device. This means, if everything is linked up properly, you can adjust the thermostat from a tablet, cell phone, computer, or other connected device. For example, you can set it to turn off the air conditioning while at work and to kick it on about 30 minutes before returning home – all from the comfort and convenience of your virtual device.

So, what else do you need to know about smart thermostats compared to programmable thermostats? Warner Service offers a short field guide: 

Smart thermostats can be super smart. Here's how:

  • A few select devices can regulate humidity.
  • Some collect diagnostics on whole-home or –business energy consumption, which means you can see exactly where your energy bill needs work.
  • Some models can optimize the central air conditioning operation for the best efficiency.
  • Other devices offer self-learning capabilities that can monitor and adjust comfort settings based on preferences and tendencies.
  • A few smart thermostats can continuously monitor the local climate and adjust the temperature automatically.
  • Homeowners and business owners can set up regular HVAC maintenance alerts with smart thermostat technology.
  • If you opt for extra sensors in the space, you can set up zoned heating and cooling and individual room-based temperature control.

All devices are made to save you money. The biggest difference between traditional, programmable, and smart thermostats is the amount of money each can save you. Traditional models are not made to provide the highest efficiency. It acts only as a control panel for the heating and air conditioning system. While programmable and smart thermostats have the same job, these devices are made to save families and business owners up to 20 percent on cooling and heating costs when set properly. 

It is easy to use. Many smart thermostats have a user-friendly interface and are easy to install and use. (However, if you need help setting up the device, we would be more than happy to assist you.) Be sure to check which thermostat is most compatible with your home or business’ energy source before you buy. Some devices work with gas or electric and others can be used with any source.

You do not always need central A/C. While most smart thermostats work for spaces with central HVAC units, others can be used to simply control window A/C units. Using the same Wi-Fi technology, it acts more like a timer or adapter.

As a wrap-up, smart thermostats can learn from your behaviors and allow you to control the climate in your home or commercial space remotely. Some models show you energy consumption reports and can adjust it based on ambient conditions like humidity and local climate.

With effortless programming and wireless connectivity, smart thermostats are a great option for your home or business. The bottom line is that it can save you money while creating a smaller impact on the environment, and going “green” is a huge initiative in Maryland right now.

Want more advice on how to make your home or business smarter? Sign up for our weekly blog subscription for more tips and tricks:

Subscribe To The Blog