Getting Smart About Keeping Cooling Cost Down: WiFi Thermostats
When the heat soars, cooling costs also rise. Adjusting a thermostat just 7 to 10 degrees from its normal setting for 8 hours daily can save as much as 10 percent annually on your energy costs, reports Energy.gov. Programmable WiFi thermostats make adjusting for energy savings easy. A programmable WiFi thermostat allows effortless management of energy consumption by controlling both cooling and heating from your smartphone, computer or other connected device.
Programmable Thermostat Basics
A basic programmable thermostat eliminates the hassle of having to manually adjust the home’s comfort levels several times daily. You can store multiple temperature settings, repeat daily settings and easily override any program when additional adjustments are needed. With a programmable thermostat, you can have your air conditioning run less during the day while everyone is gone and then set it to kick on about 30 minutes before you normally return home.
Benefits of WiFi Thermostats
One of the greatest benefits of a WiFi thermostat is the ability to manage your central HVAC system remotely. When plans change and you’re returning home earlier than usual, simply adjust the temperature settings from your smartphone and enjoy stepping into a perfectly cooled home even when the outdoor thermometer reads 98 degrees.
Remote access for the WiFi thermostat is via the Web or mobile apps designed specifically for your thermostat. Mobile apps are available for both Apple and Android devices. There are several options for WiFi thermostats including units from Honeywell and Nest.
Tip: Look for WiFi thermostats compatible with your home’s energy source. Some work with gas or electric while others may be used with any source.
Honeywell WiFi Thermostats
Honeywell offers different wireless thermostat options, each designed to make your life a bit easier. The Honeywell models allow you to program it directly at the wall unit as well as through the Web portal and mobile apps. A touchscreen feature makes it simple to program adjustments as well as choose display color themes for easy readability and to complement the room’s décor.
Smart Response technology from Honeywell provides security settings to prevent unauthorized changes, email alerts and specialty programming for vacations. It’s a good choice if there’s a need to monitor multiple locations such as rental units or offices as Honeywell models can be programmed for more than two locations.
The Nest WiFi Thermostats
What if you don’t have central HVAC? Consider a WiFi air conditioner timer or adapter that allows you to control a window air conditioning unit from a smartphone or other mobile device. You can turn the unit on remotely or adjust the temperature controls as desired.
Still not sure which WiFi thermostat is best for your home? Check in with one of our P.C. Richard & Son air conditioning specialists at 877-727-1909. We can answer all your questions.
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