5 Things You Need To Know About Wi-Fi Thermostats

Innovations in technology are happening so quickly that it was only a matter of time before our homes became integrated with our smartphones. Wi-Fi thermostats are one of the newest innovations in home technology and a great investment for your home and our planet. Who wouldn’t want a thermostat that lets you control your home’s heating and cooling from your smartphone? We know that new technology can also be confusing. We’re here to help you understand everything you need to know about Wi-Fi thermostats.

HOW IT WORKS

A Wi-Fi thermostat has an IP address just like your computer does, but it also controls your home’s heating and cooling like a standard programmable thermostat. The IP address allows a homeowner to connect the thermostat to their home’s wireless internet and control it from a computer or smartphone. You can then program the thermostat to be set at a certain temperature while you’re home and away. Some of the more advanced models can send you email alerts, give you the ability to control it remotely, and display the outside temperature.

THERE ARE DIFFERENT BRANDS AND MODELS

There are several different brands out there that offer Wi-Fi thermostats, but you should be sure to get a Wi-Fi thermostat that pairs with your heating and cooling equipment. More advanced heating and cooling equipment may require a specific thermostat to provide data that helps all the advanced features to perform optimally. You should keep in mind whether or not you have a common wire (c-wire) that runs from your furnace to the thermostat. Some Wi-Fi thermostat models require a c-wire and others come with a power extender if you don’t have one.

IT HELPS WITH ENERGY EFFICIENCY

One of the best parts of a Wi-Fi thermostat is it not only makes your life easier, but it helps reduce energy waste. Wi-Fi thermostats take advantage of the times you aren’t home to turn down the heat or turn up the air conditioning. You can also set the temperature remotely from your smart phone if you forget to change it when you leave the house. Turning down the heat or turning up the air conditioning when you’re away helps conserve the energy you use to power your HVAC system for when you’re at home.

YOU CAN USE THEM EVEN IF YOU DON’T HAVE A SET SCHEDULE

If your work or school schedule is different throughout the week, a Wi-Fi thermostat makes it easy to adjust the temperature from anywhere. Just pull out your phone to adjust the temperature while you’re away. Some Wi-Fi thermostats also can learn your schedule and adjust accordingly.

IF YOU HAVE NEVER INSTALLED A THERMOSTAT BEFORE, YOU MAY NEED TO CONTACT A PROFESSIONAL

While you may think it will be easy to install a Wi-Fi thermostat by yourself, the new technology can be confusing. You can contact a professional to install it for you if you’re just learning about HVAC systems and how they work. This way you can get the job done quickly and be on your way to a more energy-efficient home. The best way to do this is to start with an energy audit to assess where you can conserve the most energy in your home. If your home needs an HVAC improvement, Ecotelligent Homes can install a Wi-Fi thermostat along with a new high-efficiency furnace and air conditioner.

A Wi-Fi thermostat is a great investment that pays for itself by being energy efficient. Contact Ecotelligent Homes today to discuss how you can improve your HVAC performance.