Things to consider when it comes to smart thermostats
Ready to replace your existing thermostat with a brand new one? We have compiled a list of things that you need to consider to help you when it comes to considering a smart thermostat. After learning some of these the hard way, Castle Heating Kent wanted to make sure you do not make any of these mistakes, find out everything you need to know by reading through this blog.
What do I need to know before installing a smart thermostat?
Have enough wires
Even though many smart thermostats are fully compatible with a range of heating systems, it does not mean that you will have enough wires for it. For many smart thermostats, there is a chance that you will need a wire to plug into the C-terminal so that your thermostat can receive continuous power. This is because thermostats that require a wifi connection tend to require more power than regular thermostats. So make sure you have enough wires before you choose your thermostat.
Take a picture of your existing wiring
This is very important especially if something goes wrong with your new thermostat and you need to replace it temporarily with your old one. If you get this done by a professional heating engineer, then you will not have to worry about doing this.
Use the right tools
Did you know the wires that come along with smart thermostats are really a thing and easy to break? Also, whilst in the process of removing your existing thermostat, there may be chances that a few of these wires may have their tips snapped off. If this happens, you will need to make new tips so you can insert them into your new thermostat. It is handy to use tools like a wire stripper for this.
Low voltage
Make sure the smart thermostat you choose is compatible with low voltage, 24v, heating systems. Thermostats such as Nest and Honey have low voltage so you will not have to worry about this.
Am I making the most out of my smart thermostat?
Setting your own schedule
Your smart thermostats can be controlled manually, and over time it starts to learn your routines so don't have to keep updating. However, did you know that you can specify a strict schedule for your smart thermostats to change to a specified temperature at a specific time?
If you have an app for your smart thermostat, try checking the schedule settings to set this up.
Home & Away Modes
Setting your thermostat to turn on when you enter your home or to turn off when you leave is a great way to keep your heating costs down. Your smart thermostat may have a home or away feature that you can use to set this up.
Have a HVAC fan?
Normally, your HVAC system's fan only works when the air conditioner or heat is turned on, but with certain smart thermostats, you can keep the HVAC fan running even if the air conditioner or heat isn't turned on.
Change air filters
Your thermostat is only as good as your HVAC system, and if your air filter is blocked and dusty, your smart thermostat won't work as efficiently as it could be. As a result, you could set up reminders to let you know when your air filters need replacing. If you have a Nest thermostat, you can access this setting on the app.
Secure it with a code
Although this may not be a major issue in most households, if your children are continually fiddling with the thermostat settings, there are certain thermostats that allow you to set up a PIN code to prevent this from happening.
Use voice control
You can use your voice to manage several elements of the Nest Thermostat, Amazon Echo or Google Home, making it a little easier and faster to make changes. You'll need to set up smart home control on your preferred voice assistant first but read through these guidelines for the Echo, the Home and Nest Thermostat.
Receive notifications
For the most part, your heating system is reliable, but if something goes wrong, especially when you are away or worse on a holiday, it is important that you know about it. If you have an app for your thermostat, you can opt in to get notified either via a text or an in-app notification so you can keep up to date with your heating system.
Set up heating zones
You can set different temperature and humidity settings in different rooms of your house with some smart thermostats. For example, during the winter, your kitchen can keep cool at night and your bedroom warm. With this feature, you are also able to regulate the temperature in your children's rooms so that everyone can be at a comfortable temperature.
Thermostats may also work hand in hand with sensors to recognise which rooms are occupied and which can be left unheated. As a result, you won't waste money heating rooms that aren't in use and save money on your heating bills.
Hire a professional
Not only will a qualified engineer carry out a thorough check, have the correct tools to use and move your new thermostat to a new location if you wanted. If you would like to find out more about smart thermostat installation services, call Castle Heating Kent on 0800 0016511 or 01634 790511.
