If you are looking to save money on your heating or cooling costs, you may read over and over that installing and using a programmable thermostat is one of the best tools for helping with this. Unfortunately, though, people may be deterred to install one because they question if the device can really save them money, they are unfamiliar with what the device does and/or they may have heard they are complicated to use. Here is everything you need to know about programmable thermostats, including the good, the bad and the ugly. 

What Is a Programmable Thermostat and What Types Are There?  

A programmable thermostat is a thermostat that you can program to control the temperature within your home or building based on a specific time and day. For example, you can set your unit to heat your home right before you come home for work on weekdays and program the unit to run the heater all day on the weekends when you are home for work. You can have one temperature for the evening when you are out in the living room watching television and another temperature for when you are snuggled underneath the blankets sleeping at night. Not every thermostat is the same, and there are a few different types, including a seven-day programming type, 5-2 scheduling type and smart thermostats. 

What Are the Pros and Cons of a Programmable Thermostat? 

The biggest downside associated with a programmable thermostat is that the thermostat will only follow the settings you program into it. Many people are not familiar with their thermostat and make mistakes when programming it. Fortunately, though, when properly programmed, there can be many benefits associated with a programmable thermostat, including energy savings, costs to heat or cool your home, extending the lifespan of your heating and cooling devices and having a home that is comfortable to walk into at any given time. 

How Does a Smart Thermostat Differ From a Programmable Thermostat? 

A smart thermostat is a type of programmable thermostat. However, unlike other types of thermostats that are controlled from the thermostat itself, smart devices can be controlled from smartphones, tablets or computers. Many people find programming smart thermostats to be much easier than programming traditional thermostats. A smart thermostat also allows you to change up your settings, even if you are not at home, which can be perfect if your kids are too hot or cold at home or you have unexpected visitors to your home. 

When it comes to programmable thermostats, the thermostat is only effective and efficient if it is used correctly. Having a professional who can help you properly install a programmable or smart thermostat and teach you how to use it can be vital to ensure it does a great job in your home. Here at Guaranteed Heating & Cooling, we can help you with all of your heating and cooling needs, including installing and programming smart or programmable thermostats. Call us today for professional HVAC services.