Installing the right thermostat is necessary to maintain the right room temperature indoors. Whether your need one for your new house or you’re making upgrading your HVAC thermostat, you have to do a proper search from a vast selection of thermostats available in the market. You also have to buy one that is within your budget. However, choosing the right thermostat will not be an easy task. You have to decide between manual, digital, and smart thermostat options. This may take extensive research before determining the right one for your home.
On the other hand, incredible improvements have been made to this device; the best technology has also been integrated, ensuring that you run your home more efficiently. This helps to save energy and money. Are you looking to install a thermostat? Below are the top points to consider when buying an HVAC thermostat for your home,
- Consider your needs
Nowadays, thermostats are fitted with many significant features; therefore, before you buy one, evaluate your needs. Some allow you to control the temperatures remotely. Some are designed for energy efficiency; they automatically turn on your HVAC when you’re home. This helps to save on energy. You should always narrow down your option when you understand your requirements.
- Consider additional features
Decide whether you need your thermostat to have additional features. The more extra features your thermostat has, the more expensive it will be. However, it is important to know that most of these features are extremely useful in ensuring that you get the most out of your HVAC system. Luckily, certain HVAC thermostats are designed to cater to every level of your need.
If you have or follow a regular schedule, you don’t need a sophisticated thermostat; just a simple programmable type will be suitable. However, if you have a dynamic lifestyle, you need a thermostat with advanced features, including WiFi control or learning abilities. Popular brands include Veris, KMC, Honeywell, Viconics, Braeburn, and Johnson Controls.
- Think of compatibility with your system
You have to decide if you want a device compatible with your existing HVAC system. This is a must factor to consider unless you plan to change your heating and cooling system. Remember to account for your thermostat compatibility before investing in a new one. Before you buy, do proper research, bearing in mind that not all thermostats are designed to fit with the old models of air conditioners. Use the downloadable online user manuals or consult with an HVAC specialist.
- Consider your wiring
You need to consider your existing wiring plan. Although the non-connected programmable HVAC thermostat is well-matched with the traditional low voltage wiring, the latest types use a C-wire. The Common wire will function as the thermostat power source because it has to be constantly powered on for its sensors, display, and WiFi connectivity. If you have no expertise in thermostat wiring, consult with a certified HVAC contractor who can check your existing wiring connections and advice you on the best selection.
After determining the various aspects and features you want on your thermostat, you can choose the right type that can fit your HVAC system. The different types of thermostats include manual, smart/WiFi, and programmable thermostats. Let’s evaluate them.
- Manual thermostats
If you’re looking for an economical thermostat, the manual option is the best. When it comes to a manual thermostat, you are entirely in charge of when your HVAC system runs. However, operating an energy-efficient HVAC system using a manual thermostat won’t be easy. You have to physically and constantly change the temperatures set on your thermostat every time you get home and when you leave. This also applies before going to sleep and in the morning when you wake up.
- Programmable thermostats
Buy the programmable thermostat to save energy and cost on more automated options. This type of HVAC thermostat allows you to set your heating and cooling programs. Some programmable types will enable the user to create a workweek or even a weekend schedule. Depending on what works better for you, you can also set a workweek or weekend program. This is the best option to save energy in a less monitored or hands-off manner than the manual thermostat.
- Smart/WiFi thermostats
Lastly, smart/WiFi is another type of thermostat you can choose to buy. When you’re looking for top-notch efficiency, this is the type of HVAC thermostat you should invest in. It saves the most energy. As stated earlier in this article, there are many popular options for the smart/WiFi thermostat options, including Vinconics, Lux, Braeburn, etc., but they all function similarly. Instead of setting your schedule for your HVAC system, the smart/WiFi thermostat will take note of your routine and schedule. This type keeps a trace of where you are through geolocating a mobile app or via motion sensor. This device will increase or decrease the HVAC when you leave the house, depending on the current temperatures.
Before buying your Thermostats, read the above guidelines so that you can make a perfect choice suitable for the HVAC system and for your lifestyle.
Keep these useful tips in mind when choosing a thermostat for your HVAC system and you will make the right choice.
