Smart Thermostats Vs. Programmable Thermostats…..What’s the Difference?

Thermostats may sometimes feel like magical devices that can mysteriously turn the temperature of your home up and down at will. But there is nothing inexplicable about these devices. In fact, they are just simple equipment that is sensitive to temperature and can adjust your home’s heating accordingly.

Historically, thermostats were manually adjusted. Now, with the evolution of technology, there are a few different types, including those that can hook up to the internet. The two most popular thermostats nowadays are the programmable and the smart thermostat.

Programmable Thermostat:

A digitally programmable thermostat allows you to pre-set temperature based on the time and date. For example, this thermostat can be pre-set to keep the house cool when everyone’s out but keep it nice and cozy when everyone is sleeping at night. It can also be pre-set to automatically keep the house warm during the weekend when the family is home. This prevents you from the hassle of adjusting the thermostat every time you need a temperature change.

The programmable thermostat isn’t connected to anything and is programmed through its wall unit. It is a bit more expensive than a manual thermostat because it is a more complicated piece of equipment. They also need to be compatible with your home heating system, so you will need to consult with a heating and cooling services provider to see which thermostat fits your home best. Contact Nelson Comfort, a local expert in the HVAC industry, for a thorough review of your options.

A programmable thermostat is made to provide ease and convenience to people; unfortunately, some people use it as they would a manual thermostat and disable its pre-set function. Don’t do that. Consult a pro for how to use your thermostat properly.

Smart Thermostats:

These thermostats are at a whole new level altogether. This smart equipment not only follows the temperature adjustments you make, they also read and make inference from your adjustments and make changes on their own for your optimal comfort. Many smart thermostats use your home’s Wi-Fi to connect to your computer or phone app. These smart thermostats can do everything a programmable thermostat can do and also gather data on your energy use and offer you facts and figure to use your energy more efficiently.

Their only downside is the cost as they are quite a bit more expensive than programmable thermostats, which already save you energy and money. However, if you are a fan of technology and innovation, switching up to it would provide you with more fun options.
Which Thermostat Is Best For You?
If money is not of concern and if you have a good Wi-Fi connection at home then a smart thermostat is your best choice. However, if you want to return to a warm and cozy home without spending too much on it, then a programmable thermostat is the way to go.

Whichever type of thermostat you decide on, it is best that you consult Nelson Comfort first, so that you are equipped with all the information you need and can get the proper help in installing the device.

Happy winters!

About The Author

Dan Detmer

Dan Detmer is the owner of Nelson Comfort. Dan was born into the heating and cooling industry, coming from a family of well respected HVAC contractors in Dayton, Ohio. After working in the family business, Dan decided to work for a local HVAC wholesale business helping local contractors grow their business. When he felt his heart moving him back into the residential and light commercial business, Dan joined the Mortimer Heating & Cooling team in Cincinnati, where he had called home and become part of the community for several years. After a short period of time Dan purchased the company and created what is today, Nelson Comfort. Today he operates a company based on integrity, honesty, and stellar customer service. If you have any questions feel free to tweet (at sign) NelsonComfort and we will get right back with you!