Ahh, summer… Outside the sun is shining longer- making temperatures higher and higher. Inside, electricity bills are also getting higher as our air conditioners try to keep up with the growing demand. Call us crazy, but wouldn’t you rather be enjoying the weather rather than worry about how much cooling your house is costing you?
One way to reduce energy use and lower costs is to install a smart thermostat in your home.
What is a “smart” thermostat?
It’s a device programmed to control your home’s heating and AC system. In a traditional thermostat, if you want the room cooler or hotter, you have to manually change the setting. Yes, that’s easy. But… how many distractions pop up that keep you from making that easy change? Or are you actually going to be home to change the setting so your home isn’t cold when no one is there to enjoy it?
With a smart thermostat, you program the system to adjust the temperature based on your needs and energy goals. For example, if no one is home from 9 AM to 5 PM, program the thermostat at 78 degrees and then have it switch to 76 at 5 PM automatically. Essentially, set it and forget it.
Cost reduction isn’t the only benefit of installing a smart thermostat in your home. Here are 13 reasons to make the switch.
1. Optimize your home’s temperature for comfort and efficiency
Mentioned earlier, regardless of the season, you want your home to be comfortable when you walk in. But there’s no need to run the system at its coolest when no one’s home.
Program a smart thermostat to adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences, so your home is always at the temperature you need, when you need it.
While a standard programmable thermostat can do this, a smart thermostat actually learns your habits and makes adjustments automatically. We’ll cover that in more detail below…
2. Thermostat adjustments based on your daily routine
Do you work a regular 9 to 5 job? Are you gone most weekends? Do you only spend time in your craft room on Fridays? Even if you don’t program those details in, over time the thermostat will “figure it out.” It will learn your schedule and make adjustments based on when you’re home and when you’re away.
If the smart thermostat has movement sensors, it can tell which rooms you’re in and when, then make adjustments accordingly. That means you get perfect temperature control to fit your lifestyle — without lifting a finger.
3. Save money on your energy bills
Using machine learning, a smart thermostat will make adjustments based on factors like:
- The outside temperature
- The temperature you’ve set it to
- How long it takes to heat or cool your home
- When you’re typically home or away
This fine-tuning reduces energy use during times you won’t need it.
According to Energy Star, you could save 8% on your heating and cooling costs each year by making the switch. So if your annual energy bill is $3,000, you could save around $250 every year — money that’s better spent elsewhere.
4. Monitor and adjust your settings from anywhere
Because smart thermostats are connected to the internet, you can access and adjust your settings remotely with a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. So if you forgot to adjust the temperature before you left, or if the weather takes an unexpected turn, you can log in and make the necessary changes. You’ll come home to a comfortable house without any wasted energy or a huge bill waiting for you.
5. Receive alerts and notifications
Not only can you control your comfort from afar, but you can also receive alerts about your HVAC system. Reminders and notifications include:
- Maintenance needs
- Filter changes
- Temperature trends
- Energy use
- Power Outages
- System failure
- And more!
The notifications help you maintain your HVAC equipment so small issues don’t turn into big, costly problems.
6. Improve indoor air quality
An HVAC system can help improve indoor air quality and reduce the spread of germs. How? Well, a smart thermostat monitors the humidity in a home and makes adjustments to prevent mold growth and excessive dryness.
Also, the alerts and reminders help you stay on top of maintenance- like filter changes- which remove pollutants and allergens from the home.
7. Compatible with other devices
If you’re using Alexa, Google or Siri as a home assistant, then you’ll be happy to know that many smart thermostats are compatible. This means you can control your comfort with your voice.
8. Take advantage of energy rebates
Depending on where you live, a smart thermostat purchase may qualify for an energy rebate. If so, the rebate offsets the purchase price and you start saving sooner!
9. Reduce your carbon footprint
If you like being eco-friendly, then you’ll be glad to learn smart thermostats can help you reduce your carbon footprint.
By using less energy, you’re producing fewer harmful emissions. It’s a win-win for you and the environment!
10. Extend the life of your HVAC system
HVAC systems are a big investment, so it makes sense that you want it to last as long as possible.
A smart thermostat can help you extend the life of your equipment by making small adjustments that reduce wear and tear. Also, the alerts and reminders mentioned earlier help catch issues before they lead to more serious problems.
11. Get peace of mind and reliability
New, up-to-date thermostat to be reliable for years to come. Older models may not be supported by the manufacturer anymore nor may the tools and parts to keep it going be in existence.
If your old thermostat is on showing its age, it may be time for an upgrade. And because many smart thermostats come with a warranty, rest easy knowing your purchase is protected in the event of an issue.
12. Track your patterns
Curious about your family’s usage and trends when it comes to heating or cooling your home? A smart thermostat can track patterns and provide insight into your energy use, so you can identify ways to further improve your efficiency and comfort.
13. Improve your home’s resale value
Wondering what you can do to increase your home’s resale value?
If you’re considering selling your house, then installing a smart thermostat is a great way to make it more appealing to potential buyers. They’ll love the convenience, energy savings, and peace of mind that comes with owning smart heating and cooling equipment. It’s an affordable investment that sets your home apart from others on the market.
Ready to upgrade?
If you want to start seeing the benefits of a smart thermostat, contact Phoenix Air ATX. We’ll help you find the perfect model for your needs and budget, and our team of certified technicians will install the smart thermostat quickly and efficiently.
