The Chicago summer has definitely arrived. As we shut off the furnace and turn on the air conditioning, it may be time to take a look at a few ways that we can increase our home’s energy efficiency and save money on our utility bills at the same time.
One key way to accomplish this goal is through the installation of the latest in technology, the NEST Smart Thermostat. These Smart thermostats are smart because they allow users more automated temperature control and therefore greater savings than ever before possible. The NEST retails for around $250 and has many features.
You may be familiar with the NEST brand thermostat. There are also other models including the Ecobee Smart Thermostat and the Honeywell Prestige series. Honeywell has just announced a new introduction to the market, the Honeywell Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat. This model features internet connectivity via Wi-Fi and mobile apps for those who like the idea of remote management.
Most homeowners set their thermostat to one temperature and never change it. When you install a Smart Thermostat, you can set your temperature at different times during the day and the thermostat programs itself to learn your temperature preferences. This saves you time because you don’t have to worry about changing the temperature ever again.
For example, the thermostat can be programmed to shut off the furnace or air conditioner as you leave for work in the mornings, so that your HVAC system is not expending unnecessary energy. It can also be programmed to turn up the heat (or turn on the air conditioning) a little before you come home so you can walk into your home and immediately feel comfortable.
They can also be programmed to adjust the temperature in the evenings as you sleep, in order to conserve energy and save money on utility bills.
Several manufacturers have developed the smart thermostat technology and some even offer the added benefit of internet connectivity for remote management and programming
Have you ever left the house wondering if you forgot to shut off the air conditioner or the heat? Smart thermostats can be controlled by the computer or phone, which makes it possible to change the temperature remotely.
Typically a Smart Thermostat can be installed in as little as 30 minutes or less. This makes them an ideal choice for the do-it-yourselfer. It may be easier and less complicated though if you let someone else handle the installation for you.
There is both an added convenience and an increased ability to save money with a new smart thermostat installation. While this type of thermostat tends to come with a higher cost, consider it an investment. The money that you put down up front can be saved on your monthly utility bills over time. They offer an ideal way to utilize technology for creating a more energy efficient home.