A smart thermostat is a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat that automatically adjusts heating and cooling temperature settings in your home for optimal performance. These thermostats usually pair with an App from the device manufacturer and sometimes the Google/Android or Apple ecosystem
Smart thermostats that earn the ENERGY STAR label have been independently certified, based on actual field data, to deliver energy and cost savings.
System designs may vary but common smart thermostat features include:
Convenience
- Many smart thermostats learn your temperature preferences and establish a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you are asleep or away.
- Geofencing allows your smart thermostat to know when you’re on the way home and automatically adjusts your home’s temperature to your liking.
Control
- Wi-Fi enabled thermostats allow you to control your home’s heating and cooling remotely through your smartphone or tablet.
- ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats quickly enter a low-power standby mode when inactive.
Insight
- Smart thermostats provide equipment use and temperature data that you can track and manage.
- Periodic software updates ensure your smart thermostat is using the latest algorithms and energy-saving features available.
Installation Requirements
While there are a few requirements, one of the most important is the requirement for Constant power – non smart thermostats typically can operate using batteries. Smart thermostats however requires a constant power supply from a 24V source via a C wire.(Note that there are line voltage smart thermostats for electric baseboards etc.)
If there are unused cables behind your existing thermostat and assuming that these wires terminate at your furnace/cooling equipment, the installation process will be simpler. Otherwise a new thermostat wire with more wire strands may need to be run between your heating/cooling source and the thermostat or sometimes a dedicated 24V adapter can be run to the smart thermostat if there is a nearby electrical outlet.
We would be happy to take a look at your existing configuration advise as to your best option.
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