If you want to control the temperature of your home conveniently and efficiently, you’ll need a smart thermostat. This is a quick guide to teach you the basics regarding these nifty devices.
What Is a Smart Thermostat?
A smart thermostat is a type of thermostat that makes use of “smart” technology. This usually refers to WiFi support, app integration, and voice command features, among others. Many smart thermostats have some combination of the aforementioned features.
Why Should You Use Smart Thermostats?
You have more ways to set the temperature
Back in the day you either had to turn a knob or press an analog button multiple times to reach your desired temperature. Today, however, you have many more options at your disposal. For one, you can use voice commands through Alexa, Google Assistant, or some other solution to let the thermostat know exactly what to do. This can be useful if you can’t get to the thermostat yourself, if you’re currently busy with something, or if you’re just lazy.
Alternatively, you can use an app if the thermostat has accompanying software. These apps will allow you to change the temperature even outside your home, so you can keep your pets and kids back home at the perfect temperature while you’re away.
You can set up a schedule
One of the most notable advancements in thermostat technology is the addition of schedules. Heating and cooling don’t come cheap, and in fact, it’s one of the most energy-consuming systems in many homes. If you want to save as much money as possible, you’ll want to limit your usage of heating and cooling by setting up a schedule beforehand. This is possible thanks to modern advancements in thermostat technology.
You can set up the thermostat in such a way that, for example, it’ll cool the room down during the middle of the afternoon and turn off once it gets cooler in the evening. And during winter, you can have the heating system run at night while you’re asleep and let it turn off an hour or two after bedtime. There are tons of possibilities, and you’ll be able to set a schedule for anything you’d like.
You can monitor your heating and cooling systems
One feature that comes in handy is HVAC monitoring. It’s a system that helps you keep track of your heating and cooling system performance at all times. With the help of modern thermostats, the devices can easily track for problems and notify you the moment they spot something worth taking a look at. When it comes to air conditioning, the best time to solve problems is the moment you notice them, and being informed as soon as something’s up will save you lots of money in repairs.
Things to Consider When Buying a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats use modern technology to run, so you’ll need to consider a few things before buying one.
Voice Command Support
Smart thermostats will generally have WiFi support (they’re called smart thermostats for a reason, after all). However, even if they can connect to your local WiFi network, this doesn’t mean it can work with Alexa or Google Assistant. And while many of these thermostats do offer support, others only work with certain assistants, while others offer no support whatsoever.
When picking a smart thermostat based on their voice command support, be sure to check if they explicitly mention assistant support, and if so, which assistants it can work with. Remember, not all thermostats offer universal support, so you’ll need to check before buying, or else you’ll end up with a device that won’t work no matter how many times you shout at Alexa.
App Interface
Some smart thermostats also come with a free app that lets you customize your settings from your smartphone. These apps give you access to direct temperature control, schedule setting, and more. If you want to be able to control your thermostat from a distance and you’re always on your phone, apps can be quite helpful.
Aside from this, there are other ways to connect remotely. Instead of apps, some thermostats can be accessed via a website. This is often easier for companies to set up, as websites can be accessed anywhere with a browser, as opposed to apps which only run on certain devices.
Tips When Using A Smart Thermostat
Remember these tips when setting up your thermostat.
Keep your WiFi network secure
Because your thermostat is connected directly to your WiFi network, anyone connected can use the thermostat remotely. This also means that neighbors who know your password or anyone with malicious intent can technically control your thermostat if they know how to do so. Ensure that you have a strong WiFi password and try limiting access to the network as much as possible.
Make use of schedules
Schedules are there to help you save power and money and make life easier for you. Use them so you don’t have to set the temperature all the time.
Smart Thermostat FAQ
Q: Are smart thermostats safe?
A: Smart thermostats are completely safe to use as long as your WiFi network is secure.
Q: How long does it take to set up a smart thermostat?
A: Technically, it shouldn’t take more than a few minutes to have a smart thermostat up and running.
Q: Are smart thermostats worth it?
A: From providing information on your air conditioning systems to setting up schedules and remote access, smart thermostats give you access to plenty of useful features that make them worth the purchase.