In this new generation of gadgets, WiFi-enabled thermostats are among the most popular and extensively utilized technologies. As technology improves, it is projected that even more people will use them. A normal home thermostat functions in a similar way to these energy-saving gadgets, with the exception that they are connected to Wi-Fi and may be managed by smartphone apps. Despite the fact that they are convenient to operate, there are several disadvantages to consider before purchasing a WiFi-enabled thermostat.

Using WiFi, users can access their smart thermostat from anywhere in the world using an app for it to not only monitor the interior temperature but also to set it. After just a couple of days of use, it is easy to detect that the smart thermostat has remembered your preferences. This allows you to live in a comfy house that is tailored to your specific needs and tastes.

Less Energy Use / Lower Bill 

Many people are curious about how algorithms and thermostats may save energy. Heating and cooling systems can be configured to only operate whenever the owner is at home, resulting in reduced energy usage and expenditure.

However, according to Energy Star, installing a programmable thermostat can save you up to $100 per year on your energy bills. Individuals who work outside the home or have erratic schedules may find it particularly convenient to be able to set and operate their thermostat from a distance.

Still Works Without WI-FI

If your home’s WI-FI connection declines, you might start to wonder about your thermostat during this time. Instead, they’ll function as a normal thermostat, which you’ll have to control yourself if the internet connection goes down. You won’t be able to monitor the temperature if you don’t have Internet connectivity, but it will remain at the prior setting.

Configure your thermostat to send you notifications. If the temperature in your home dips below 50 ° f for more than an hour, the system can send out an alert to you and anyone who has been added to the system as a contact.

Consider the following scenario: you depart for a vacation during a blizzard, you arrive in sunny Florida, and your thermostat sends you a notification that the temperature in your home has plummeted below 50 degrees. Instead of living without heat for a week and coming back home to a mess of shattered pipes in the basement, and having to have the HVAC company come to your house to replace the furnace? There is no need to re-program when your scheduled shifts or changes. Unless you have a flexible schedule, a traditional setback thermostat will not adapt to your changing needs.

Learning Wi-Fi thermostats, on the other hand, will. It recognizes when you are at home and away from home, learns your schedule, and generates a setback scheme that is tailored to your timetable.

The use of a ‘geofence’ feature on certain learning thermostats allows them to follow the location of your smartphone and adjust their settings based on when people enter or leave a specific local radius around the home, for example. It can turn up the heat while you are returning from a vacation and are only a few miles from your house. 

Before purchasing a WI- FI enabled thermostat, it is important to consider whether it will be functional with your HVAC system. Otherwise, it will be of no use to you and will cost you more money having it installed only to find out it is not functional.

Install a  wire or c-wire if the system lacks one before installing a new thermostat. An increasing number of companies are offering adaptor kits to make this process easier. Check to see that the thermostat you choose is compliant with the HVAC system you currently have in place. If you’re uncertain about wiring the system, you should consult with a qualified HVAC technician.

Cons – Things to Consider Before Getting a Wi-Fi Enabled Thermostat

Cyberattacks

When you use smart home gadgets that are Wi-Fi enabled, you run the risk of compromising your cyber security. Before investing in wi-fi-connected home devices, it’s critical to assess the overall security of the home network as a whole. Cyberattacks are common with businesses, not so many personal residences, but it is still something to consider.

If you would like more information on Wi-Fi thermostats, contact Comfort Systems.

Posted in Thermostats