I have to confess that when I first started looking for a new thermostat, I didn’t realize just how much technology was involved with a lot of the models I came across. One type of technology that really astounded me was the wireless thermostat.
For the thermostat novices reading this page, don’t get too excited. You still need wires to connect it to your HVAC system. What it does mean is the unit has the ability to connect to the internet so you can access various features remotely via Wi-Fi.
“Big deal” you might think, but the additional extras you get with a device like this are pretty extensive.
Whilst I’m not about to tell you a wireless thermostat should be your next purchase, I thought you should at least be given the opportunity to find out more about the benefits a unit like this can offer you.
Control Anytime – Anywhere
Thermostats that don’t use wireless technology cannot be controlled unless you’re in the same location as the unit itself. With a Wi-Fi thermostat you simply log into the app associated with the model you have and you can change all manner of things.
Of course, you will need to make sure you have access to the internet.
Energy Saving
OK, so we all know that having a programmable thermostat can help you save energy. However, a wireless model goes one step further. Imagine if you have to work late and you won’t be home at the usual time? If you have a wireless thermostat, it’s simple to just use the app and log into the device and set the program to “away” for a bit longer.
The same can be said for other situations. Say you and the family have been rushing around getting ready to go on your annual road trip. You get an hour into your journey and realize the thermostat wasn’t changed to the “vacation” program. Easy! You can use any number of mobile devices to log into the thermostat and change the program to suit your needs.
Both of these situations (and more) can help make sure your energy bills are kept to a manageable level and it makes for a “greener” you as well!
Alerts
This is another very useful extra you get with a wireless thermostat. Various models allow you to set warnings so that if the temperature in your home or workplace gets too high or too low, you will receive an alert via email or text.
Not only does this help with saving energy, it could also help extend the life of your HVAC system overall. If you’re not going to be in the same building as your thermostat for a while and there is a particularly cold snap in the weather, having the system alert you could stop pipes from freezing or other problems occurring as a result of extreme temperatures. Some models will even let you know if your system isn’t working as well as it should be.
Ease of Use
When you first start to use the device, the days of having to stand at the panel trying to work out which program will suit you best will be a thing of the past. Even if you are in the same building, you can choose a comfortable spot to sit and program the thermostat from your mobile device.
Reports
Easy to read reports are available with many models, although it does depend on how feature rich your thermostat is. You can sit at your desktop, use an iPad, iPhone or tablet to find out things like how much energy you’ve been using, how the local weather has affected the indoor climate, learn how to better use your thermostat to save energy (AND stay comfortable) along with a plethora of other options.
Overall
It is true that a wireless thermostat will probably cost you more to buy initially. However, when you think about the fact it can save anything up to 20% on your energy bills, it won’t be long before it’s paid for itself!
A wireless thermostat has a good number of extras that will help you become more efficient with energy, keep the climate comfortable and it gives you more freedom to adjust various settings when you’re not there.
