A Simple Home Thermostats Buying Guide

Thermostats control the temperature of the interior of your home by regulating the heating and cooling options that they are associated with. Finding the best thermostat for your home can be a little tricky if you’re not familiar with the different kinds and their recommended applications. There are so many to choose from. This is why we’ve put together a useful guide to help you know the differences in the assortment of choices that are before you.

Overview of home thermostats

The types of home thermostats on retail shelves are fairly varied. There are manual units which are often used in older homes, and more sophisticated models which are programmable. Newer versions are designed with innovations that help to increase comfort and energy efficiency. They can save you money in the long run, although they may be a little more expensive to purchase. Smart thermostats are among the latest inventions and they are the ultimate in twenty first century design. Here are descriptions of each type so you’ll have a better idea of the advantages and the downside of each type.

Manual thermostats

This type is usually found in older homes. They are economical and one of the most appreciated features is that the controls are very simple and user friendly. They’re easy to install and to use as there is no real learning curve involved. The drawbacks to manual thermostats are that although they can be energy efficient, it takes a lot of monitoring and switching the settings to maximize your potential savings. In short, you probably won’t save as much in heating costs and it’s going to take up more of your time.

Recommended

Honeywell Manual Electric Baseboard Thermostat

This thermostat is a four wire premium version for asebord/line volt. It is compatible with 120, 240 and 277 vac baseboard heating untis. The controls are dial type mechanics for easy use.

Programmable thermostats

The main benefit of this type of thermostat is that it automatically adjusts the temperature in your home throughout the day and the night. Most models of programmable thermostats are estimated to cut the cost of heating the average home by up to thirty three percent and to decrease cooling costs between fifteen and twenty five percent. This represents a significant savings potential. Programmable thermostats can also be purchased with advanced options that may be programmed to make the transition from season to season and switch on heating or cooling options as needed.

The older versions of programmable thermostats may contain mercury so we recommend that if you’re choosing this option, you consider going with one of the newer versions that is mercury free. These models can be set for up to seven daily individual programs so you can schedule temperature changes to maximize energy savings. For example, you can set the thermostat to raise or lower the home temperature while everyone is away.

An added benefit is that programmable thermostats can be manually overriden at any point in time. Although there is a slight learning curve associated with programmable thermostats, they are usually easy to use once you understand how to program them.

Recommended

Lux 7-Day Manual or Programmable Thermostat

This model may be used as a programmable or non programmable version for one heat and one cooling systems. It is compatible with the majority of single state 24 volt systems, gas, oil, electric or single stage heat pumps and millivolt systems. The lighted LCD makes it easy to read in all lighting conditions. Temperature change buttons are easy to use. To switch from programmed to manual, simply hold down the button. It also features a keyboard lock and temporary override options.

Smart WiFi thermostats

These are the most technologically advanced thermostat types and they are designed to be used with a WiFi system. This innovation improves energy efficiency and user convenience. With this thermostat system you will have the ability to control the temperature of your home from your tablet, computer or smartphone.

There are a few potential drawbacks associated with smart thermostats. They may not work well for all home setups. You must first determine the type of system which is currently installed in your home. The specifications for stage requirements should be listed on the new thermostat. For example, it may work with one stage heat or cool for use with separate heating and cooling units. It may work with two stage or multi stage heating and cooling systems for units with high and low speeds.

You must also determine if the unit you’re considering works with Direct line voltage of 110 or 240 direct current power sources which are found in the majority of older homes which have not yet been updated. It’s important to make certain that the thermostat will be compatible with your current setup. If not, you have the option of speaking with an electrical contractor to discuss the value of upgrading your system.

This option is among the better choices for newer homes and users who have internet connections with WiFi and those who make use of smart phone, tablet or computer technology. On the downside, people who are not accustomed to computer technology may have a slightly higher learning curve when using this type of system. It’s important to note that although this new technology may seem a little complicated at first, once you get the hang of it, you’ll enjoy the added convenience and energy savings. If you can operate a smart phone or tablet, you should have no trouble with this type of system.

Recommended

Honeywell Wi-Fi 7 – Day Programmable Thermostat + Free App

This model offers wifi enabled thermostat control with remote access. Seven day programming with offset scheduling options. Compatible with the Wink home automation network.

How choose the best home thermostat

When it comes to home thermostats, going with the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the best decision, but this doesn’t mean that you need to choose the most expensive brand and model either. Something in the middle should do the job. If is helpful to consult online product reviews to find out what other users have to say about each product that you’re considering. It will give you and idea about what you can expect in terms of quality, reliability, user friendliness and energy efficiency. The main thing to keep in mind is that you must choose a thermostat type that is compatible with your current heating and cooling system setup. If you’re in doubt, it’s advised that you consult with a heating and cooling specialist.

Final thoughts

In most cases, finding the best home thermostat is a fairly easy process. Replacing an old one that is showing signs of wear or is less efficient that it should be, can be as easy as taking the old one with you and asking for assistance from the staff in the heating and cooling department of the retail outlet that you choose to shop with. If you’re planning to upgrade your system to increase energy savings, take the time to compare the efficiency ratings of a variety of different brands and models. Learn everything that you can about a specific unit before you make the purchase. By following these steps, you should have no trouble finding the best option for meeting your home temperature control needs.