Introduction
As the world becomes more technology-oriented, homeowners have been presented with smart thermostats that can be controlled remotely, self-learn, and are eco-friendly. But what are the differences between these advanced thermostats and the traditional ones that we are used to? In this blog post, we’re going to compare smart thermostats and traditional thermostats, with data where possible, to help you decide which is best for your home.
Overview
We’ll start by giving a brief overview of the two types of thermostats;
Traditional Thermostats
A traditional thermostat is an on/off switch controlled either electronically or mechanically. Most traditional thermostats use a mercury-tilt switch that detects the temperature and turns the heating system on or off. The cost of a traditional thermostat is quite low, but it offers limited functionality.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are built to operate via WiFi and can be controlled using a smartphone or other device. They’re capable of collecting information about your home’s heating & cooling patterns, including when you’re away from your house, your sleep habits, and your preferred temperature settings. With this data, they optimize your HVAC system to conserve energy.
Comparison
Below is a head-to-head comparison of smart thermostats vs traditional thermostats with factual data we have gathered;
| Features | Traditional Thermostats | Smart Thermostats |
|---|---|---|
| Price | <$20 | $100-$250 |
| Learning | No | Yes |
| Compatibility with smart home | No | Yes |
| Mobile Access | No | Yes |
| Geo-Fencing | No | Yes |
| Energy Saving | No | Yes |
Conclusion
As stated, smart thermostats offer more options than traditional thermostats. They are more energy-efficient, give users intelligent controls, and allow for remote control of temperature via mobile apps. Due to the endless possibilities on offer with smart thermostats, the cost is higher than traditional thermostats. But, if within your budget, it’s worth the upgrade to benefit from the additional functionality.
While we recommend smart thermostats, deciding between the choices can depend on your needs, preferences, and budget. This comparison should be a useful resource helping you make an informed decision.
References
- Cassidy, J. (2022, Feb 18). Smart Thermostats vs. Traditional Thermostats: What’s the Difference?