Thermostats that are ‘smart’ or connected, have a lot of advantages over traditional thermostats. Their ability to learn and the user’s ability to control them more precisely can really help you use less energy and save more money.
What are the benefits of smart thermostats?
Users can realize savings of 10-20 percent on their energy costs, due to the ease with which they can be programmed and controlled. Apps give users remote control over devices, allowing to use them even out of home. Using smart thermostats can help utility companies respond to anticipated blackouts and other disruptions.
How do smart thermostats work?
Smart thermostats do what normal thermostats do, they control heating and cooling systems. But do it with increased level of convenience and intelligence. Many contain presence sensor that will instruct the thermostat to turn down of off if no one is home. Some can learn the user’s schedule. Most can connect with other devices and act together, for example: it will turn heating or air conditioning when the garage door opens.
What are the challenges of smart thermostats?
Installing a smart thermostat is not the most difficult thing a homeowner will do, but it will be a challenge for some users. At a cost ranging from $170-$250, the are more expensive than regular thermostats. Concerns of privacy and security are prevalent and users should read the terms of service to understand how data will be used.
FIND OUT MORE: crtlabs.org/smartthermostats
Credit to: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS
