How Does A Programmable Thermostat Work?
Heating and cooling equipment always relies on a thermostat to generate accurate temperature readings in enclosed spaces. In every HVAC system that’s designed to maintain a desired indoor temperature, a thermostat is an essential component. A lot of HVAC companies suggest using programmable thermostats given their high levels of convenience. But what is a programmable thermostat and how does a programmable thermostat work?
This article will share some helpful information on programmable thermostats.
What A Programmable Thermostat Is
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In a heating and cooling system, the thermostat is the component that both senses and controls the indoor temperature. Moreover, it additionally controls various actions performed within a controlled system like the air conditioner or furnace. It does so by regulating the amount of heat transfer fluid that’s flowing, or by turning the appliance off or on. These measures help create the desired indoor temperature and maintain it.
Manual Vs. Programmable Thermostats
The primary difference between a standard or manual thermostat and one that’s programmable is that a programmable thermostat has the ability to auto-adjust temperatures. This is done according to specific settings that homeowners program. Homeowners are able to program temperatures lower or higher according to their preferences and desired comfort levels at different times of the day.
Most modern thermostats are digital. However, you can still find a number of functional, non-digital units in more dated buildings and houses. Digital thermostats have a thermistor that performs temperature measurements. This component contains metals that are modified according to ambient temperature changes. Changes in the electrical resistance of temperature are enabled by the thermistor.
The Micro-Controller
The micro-controller is another important component in a programmable thermostat. This takes measurements of electrical resistance. The reading of electrical resistance is then converted into a temperature reading. This is how temperature is sensed by a modern digital thermostat.
The programmable settings that many of these devices include make it possible for people to program them to turn the heat up or down at specific points in the day. For instance, in the colder winter months, a programmable thermostat might be set to keep the heat on while you get ready for work in the morning. After you have left, the thermostat can turn the heat down. It’s also able to turn the heater back on so that the living environment is warm and comfortable when you get back in.
Depending upon how temperatures change throughout the home over the course of the day, a programmable thermostat can additionally be used for all-day temperature regulation.
Having a programmable thermostat can also be handy for zoning. With HVAC zoning, different areas or rooms throughout the home can be cooled down or heated up with different temperature settings.
This setup is perfect for multi-level and multi-zone homes. Given that hot air rises to the upper levels of buildings, rooms at the ground level are usually much cooler than the rooms that are at the top. Installing a programmable thermostat can fix this problem and create consistent comfort throughout the building by keeping the temperature static throughout.
The Benefits Of Having A Programmable Thermostat Installed
Below, we discuss some of the benefits that come with a programmable thermostat.
Automatically Adjust Indoor Temperatures
Given that you can set your programmable thermostat to automatically cool down or heat up select rooms or zones at key times, you don’t ever have to worry about adjusting the temperature. This effectively eliminates the inconvenience of having to manually operate your thermostat when temperature changes are required.
Increased Comfort For Everyone
With a programmable thermostat, necessary adjustments in temperature happen automatically. As a result, everyone within the home can remain at a comfortable temperature all day long. This means that everyone can enjoy increased comfort.
Better Zoned Temperature Control
For zoned HVAC systems, a programmable thermostat has the best ability to provide reliable temperature control. Given that different rooms or zones can be independently cooled or heated, it’s even possible to turn the thermostat off in unoccupied rooms.
Limit The Stress On Your HVAC System
If you have an older HVAC system in your home, you can limit the burden on your equipment by installing a programmable thermostat. This is all the more true if you keep your HVAC system running all the time. It will help limit the amount of wear that’s sustained. As such, it may even extend the lifespan of your home heating and cooling equipment.
Save Money On Heating & Cooling Costs
It may be possible to lower your energy costs with a programmable thermostat. This unit will allow you to alter temperature settings to perfectly accommodate your daily schedule. As a result, your HVAC system won’t have to operate full-blast throughout the entire day. Heating and cooling functions can be turned off, up, or down, depending upon whether or not the home is occupied.
What If Don’t Want To Use The Auto Setting For Temperature Control?
Every programmable thermostat comes with an override function that switches it from automatic to manual operation. When you use the manual function, there is no need to auto set temperatures. However, you’ll still have full control over the HVAC system. For added convenience, you might want to invest in remote monitoring and control. This eliminates the need to be physically near the thermostat or even present in the home to adjust temperatures as needed. Newer thermostats that have Wi-Fi capability can be remotely programmed using smartphones or computers. This can be incredibly convenient if you ever forget to turn the air conditioner or furnace off before leaving.
Should You Get A Programmable Thermostat?
Programmable thermostats tend to work best for people who maintain fairly regular schedules. They’re also an excellent choice for anyone who wants the ability to control indoor temperatures without having to manually manipulate their thermostats. A programmable thermostat can be set to warm the house up or cool it down at specific times. Settings can also be kept for prolonged periods. For better control over your living environment and with less hands-on manipulation, consider having a programmable thermostat installed.
Conclusion
Among some of the benefits that a programmable thermostat can provide are increased comfort, greater convenience, enhanced control, and energy and money savings. This is the ideal choice for many buildings and homes with occupants who have specific preferences for indoor temperatures. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to customize indoor comfort. If you want a programmable thermostat in your home, get in touch with a reputable HVAC company to talk about your needs. HVAC professionals can help you determine which features are best in line with the heating and cooling requirements of your home.
Let R.F. Ohl Handle Your HVAC Needs
Residents in the Poconos and the Lehigh Valley can always get expert heating and cooling solutions from R.F. Ohl. Our technicians are certified, top-rated, and highly experienced in HVAC repairs, tune-ups, installations, and full system replacements. They can quickly and correctly complete all your HVAC projects.
The most competitive prices on heating and cooling services are guaranteed when you work with R.F. Ohl. You’ll get improved comfort and energy efficiency as well as lower heating and cooling bills when you choose our maintenance services. Should your home HVAC system need replaced, we’ll help you find the ideal replacement products. We’ll also give you a solid guarantee for any work we perform. To set up an appointment, call R.F. Ohl today. We can give you an on-site estimate at no charge.
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