What is the Best Thermostat to Use for My HVAC System?

Are you wondering about the different kinds of thermostats that are available for your home? Many homeowners are unaware that there is more than one option, but the type of thermostat you invest in can actually make a big difference in your home comfort and energy costs.

What types of thermostats are available?

Home thermostats range from simple and manual to complex and programmable. The best type of thermostat varies from homeowner to homeowner, depending on your needs.

Manual thermostats

Manual thermostats are simple, affordable, and low-maintenance. They are best used in locations with moderate climates. They do not allow for zoning or pre-programming, but they are a great option if you are careful to change them when the temperature fluctuates.

Programmable thermostats

Programmable thermostats are great for saving both money and energy. They automatically adjust the temperature according to your preferences and smoothly transition between heating and cooling during fall and spring months. If you change your mind about a setting, you can quickly and manually change it.

Smart/WiFi thermostats

Smart thermostats allow you to change settings and control heating/cooling from your smartphone. They are energy-efficient and cost-effective.

Zone thermostats

Zone thermostats allow you to control the temperature of individual areas or “zones” within your home. This saves energy, as you can direct your preferred temperature to the rooms you spend the most time in.

Which brand of thermostat do we recommend?

We predominantly use Honeywell thermostats, as they provide numerous options from “simple and basic” to “bells and whistles.”

We are most commonly asked about Smart Stats, which allow you to control the temperature of your home while you are away. They are extremely convenient for homeowners who travel regularly, as they allow for adjustments and alert you to any problems.

How do you know if a thermostat is compatible with your home?

Before choosing a thermostat, you must first determine which type of heating and cooling system you own. Then you can pick the type of thermostat which will work best with your unit.

1 Stage:

1 stage heat and cool is used for systems that have separate heating and air conditioning units.

2 Stage:

This stage is compatible with systems that have a high speed setting and a low speed setting.

Direct Line Voltage:

A direct current power source is used to fuel the thermostat, usually found in older homes.

24mV:

This works with individual furnaces, such as fireplaces and floor furnaces. This is the most common residential thermostat we see.

Zone heating and cooling:

This is for use where areas of the home are individually controlled from the thermostat.

A thermostat might seem like a minor detail but it’s a small way you can make a large impact both on utility costs and the comfort of your home.

If you have any further questions, or if you would like to have a new thermostat installed, contact Indoor Air Quality today. We serve homeowners in Highlands Ranch and throughout the Denver Metro Area. Our highest priority is the comfort of your home.