If you’re not already familiar with smart technology, you probably will be soon. The new tech trend is becoming more and more popular with homeowners and potential buyers, especially now that people are starting to realize how much of a difference smart tech can make in their day-to-day lives. HVAC systems with smart thermostats are one of the more popular types of upgrades, and when you consider how much money it can help you save, it’s easy to see why.
Still, for those new to smart technology, it can be overwhelming to try to figure out what exactly all of these new devices do and how they can fit into your lifestyle. If you’re considering upgrading your HVAC or just want to learn more, read on to find out exactly how smart thermostats work and how they can benefit you and your family.
What is a smart thermostat?
Before you decide whether or not a smart thermostat is right for you, you need to understand what one is and what it does. The difference between a standard thermostat and a smart one is that a smart thermostat works with automation and can run your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems on a timer, which can help bring down energy costs.
Many HVAC systems that are compatible with a programmable thermostat can also heat your house in different zones, allowing you to keep different rooms at different temperatures or to adjust the temperature on different floors to account for heat rising in the summer. Smart thermostats can also connect to other smart devices in your home via wi-fi, and many can be controlled directly from your smartphone whether you’re home or not.
If you want your HVAC to continue to work efficiently, you will need to be diligent about regular maintenance. Experts recommend that you have your HVAC inspected and have the filter changed at least once per year, and the system itself should be replaced every 10-15 years. When looking to address your heating and cooling needs, look for Energy Star appliances, which are certified to abide by certain standards with regard to energy efficiency and energy usage. If your goal in upgrading to smart devices is to create a more modern, appealing, and cost-efficient home, prioritizing appliances that offer energy savings is the best idea.
How can smart technology improve my home life?
A smart HVAC system with automation and that runs on a timer isn’t just convenient, but it can also reduce your utility bills and other energy costs. Essentially, smart thermostats let you program your heating and cooling system to run only when you need it to, allowing you to save money on energy bills rather than leaving your HVAC system running all day. Smart thermostats also typically come with an interface that allows you to monitor your energy usage from your smartphone, so you’ll know if it’s time to adjust your habits or look for ways to reduce your consumption.
Regulating the temperature in your home can even have health implications. If you’re focused on improving your heart health, being able to control the temperature and humidity all over your house remotely makes it easier to maintain a consistent and healthy home temperature and climate indoors. Climates that are too warm or too cold, or that have excess humidity, can also damage things like art, photographs, and even some of the woodwork in your home. It’s easy to see why modern HVAC systems with smart thermostats are one of the more popular smart devices homeowners prefer when you consider how many parts of your home life that temperature regulation can affect.
Given the growth in the desirability of eco-friendly and smart technology among home buyers and the increasing availability of smart devices, smart homes are looking like they will be the way of the future. While there are many smart devices to choose from when it comes to upgrading your home, a modern HVAC system with a smart thermostat is a sound investment that will both improve your comfort and day-to-day life at home in addition to helping you reduce unnecessary energy consumption and bring down your monthly utility bills. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your new home or take on some home improvement projects in preparation for a sale, a smart thermostat should definitely be a consideration at the top of your list.