New Thermostat Ahead? Compare Manual and Programmable Models
Adding a new thermostat to your home can help you maximize the high efficiency rating of your heating or cooling system while also lowering your energy bills.
So, should you replace your existing thermostat with another manual model or upgrade to a programmable one?
Manual thermostats
Many older homes have manual thermostats. They’re easy-to-use, one-size-fits-all tools for setting the temperature in your house. There are no batteries to change and no complicated manuals to read. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of programming a digital thermostat, then a manual model might be just what you need. You’ll see energy savings if you’re diligent about remembering to adjust the temperature as your schedule changes, but it probably won’t top the savings you’d get with a programmable model.
Programmable thermostats
The easiest way to get the most out of any new or existing HVAC system is to install a programmable thermostat. There are many models available to suit your specific needs — from simple HVAC systems to multistage units to zoned heating and cooling. They can also be customized to fit your family’s individual schedule. You can set a different program for every day of the week, choose one program for the week and another one for the weekend, or simply choose a generic program for the entire week.
Programmable thermostats have additional features that make them desirable, like touch screens, remote access that can be linked to your smartphone, keyboard lock to avoid accidental adjustments and vacation mode so you don’t have to reprogram your settings during long absences.
Ultimately, choosing a new thermostat comes down to what fits your needs best. At Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing, we can answer your questions, help you choose the best model for your system and even guide you through the initial setup. We’ve been serving residents in the greater Cincinnati area since 1910, and we believe that home comfort doesn’t have to be complicated.
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