Choosing the Right Thermostat for Your Home 

Back in the day, there was nothing fancy about a thermostat. Thermostats were simple, with a little notch that you moved to the right or the left to control the heat – all you had to do was align the notch with the temperature that you wanted, and voila. Today, thermostats have gotten a lot more advanced (and a lot more complicated in some cases). If your thermostat is dated or faulty, or if you’re thinking about innovative ways to control temperature and energy efficiency in your home, investing in a new thermostat may be a smart idea. Here are some tips for choosing a thermostat that’s right for you–

Consider Your Needs

Before you think about anything else, the first thing you should think about is what you need and what you want. If you’re not a techie and the idea of having to program something makes you sweat, then don’t worry about a smart thermostat- instead, you really just need a simple, basic thermostat to get the job done. In addition to being very simple to operate, a non-connected, programmable thermostat is a lot cheaper than a smart thermostat.

On the other hand, if you want to be able to operate your thermostat when you’re away from the house, get feedback on your habits and energy usage, and have your thermostat learn your behaviors (like when you get up in the morning and when you should kick on the heat as such), you may want a smart thermostat. While pricier, these things are pretty sweet. 

Think About Costs

The next thing to think about is your budget. Whether you want to buy a non-connected, programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat, costs can range dramatically. And note that spending more doesn’t always mean better, either. While it’s true that you may benefit from more features if you shell out more cash, consider whether the benefits outweigh the costs. 

Know Your Wiring & System

Now, before you get too hooked on the specific thermostat that you want, take some time to learn a little bit more about your HVAC system and your wiring. Unfortunately, not all smart model types support all HVAC systems, and you’ll probably need a C-wire for newer thermostats. Don’t know what a C-wire is or whether or not you have one? Call a professional.

Our Team Can Help!

At Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning, our experienced heating and cooling experts are here to assist you! If you are in the market to buy a new thermostat and have questions, or need any heating or cooling maintenance, please give us a call directly. We’re here to serve customers like you.