Programmable vs. Smart Thermostats -- which should you get?

Advantages

A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures throughout the day or week. No need for manual adjustments! For instance, you can set a higher temperature while you’re out during specific hours of the day. You can also set it to a lower temperature during the evenings for better sleep. This can help reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

Aside from those, this device is also relatively cheaper than smart thermostats. Thus, you can definitely experience higher returns on your investment in the long run.

Disadvantages

If you’re a busy person, you might find the set up a little inconvenient. You need to make time to ensure your thermostat is scheduled correctly. A programmable thermostat might also be disadvantageous if your family frequently stays at home. They might not enjoy the warmer temperatures you set while you’re away, so you’ll need to set it to the usual temperature. This won’t help you reduce your utility bills.

Lastly, this device is not universal, so it may not be compatible with some HVAC systems. Make sure to call a professional HVAC technician to help you find the best-fitting thermostat for your home.

Advantages

A smart thermostat lets you control its temperature through your smart devices. For example, you can remotely switch your HVAC to a lower temperature before coming home just by using the smartphone application. This wireless access allows homeowners to better control their HVAC’s energy consumption wherever they are, as long as their device is WiFi-connected.

Smart thermostats can also be programmed according to your preferred schedule. Some models also come with geofencing abilities that automatically adjust the temperature whenever your home is occupied or unoccupied. They also have smart-learning capabilities that track your usage to create an energy-efficient schedule. This ultimately leads to more energy savings and maximum indoor comfort.

Disadvantages

The smart thermostat is still a relatively new device that offers more convenient benefits. As such, it’s no surprise that they have higher price tags compared to other types of thermostats. This may not be ideal for homeowners who have a tight budget. Moreover, if you’re not a techy person, you might struggle at first when using this device.

Lastly, like any other smart device, this WiFi-connected thermostat may also be vulnerable to hacking attempts. If you’re working on setting a smart home ecosystem, this might cause problems in your home’s security.