The Battle of the Thermostats: Smart vs. Programmable
As we inch closer and closer to the colder months, it's time to start thinking about heating our homes. This means it's also a good time to consider upgrading or investing in a thermostat that can help regulate the temperature of your home.
But which one should you choose: smart thermostat or programmable thermostat?
Programmable Thermostats
A programmable thermostat, also called a traditional or basic thermostat, allows homeowners to pre-set a schedule for their heating and cooling systems. This means that the temperature in a home or office is adjusted automatically according to the programmed settings. Programmable thermostats can save a homeowner money by adjusting the temperature when no one is home, for example. Additionally, programmable thermostats are cheaper than their smart counterparts.
However, there are some downsides to these thermostats. Programmable thermostats may not be effective if your schedule changes often, or if you work from home. If you forget to program the thermostat or if you come home early, you might find yourself in an uncomfortably cold or hot home.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats, as the name suggests, are intelligent devices that can learn and adapt to the habits and routines of the homeowner. They are typically equipped with sensors that can detect whether someone is home or away and adjust the temperature accordingly. They can also be controlled remotely via a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Smart thermostats have the advantage of being more accurate since they can use outside temperature, humidity, and even the weather forecast to optimize the temperature setting. They also have better energy-saving capabilities since they can adapt the schedule more accurately based on real-time data. Some models even allow homeowners to monitor their energy usage and track their savings on their app.
However, one drawback of smart thermostats is their cost - they are significantly pricier than traditional models. And if you don't have a stable Wi-Fi connection at home, you may experience connectivity issues.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between a programmable or a smart thermostat, the decision depends on your needs and budget. Programmable thermostats are ideal for those who have predictable schedules, such as people who work regular hours. Smart thermostats, on the other hand, are better for those who have irregular schedules, work from home, or desire more detailed control over their energy usage. At the end of the day, both types of thermostats have the potential to save you money on your heating bills, but smart thermostats are likely to provide more savings in the long run.
References
- Energy Star, Programmable Thermostats | ENERGY STAR
- Nest, Nest Learning Thermostat | Nest
- US Department of Energy, Smart Thermostats | Department of Energy