Smart Thermostats vs Programmable Thermostats: What’s the Difference?

Weighing the Similarities and Differences of the Popular Thermostat Types

Deciding between a programmable thermostat and a smart thermostat is a crucial step for homeowners looking to upgrade their home’s temperature control. But how do you decide which one is right for your needs, lifestyle, and budget? In this guide, HVAC.com explores the similarities and differences between these two options to help you make an informed decision.

Similarities in Pre-Setting the Temperature

Let’s start with the similarities between smart and programmable thermostats. Both types of thermostats allow you to pre-set the temperature according to your schedule, adjusting it based on the time and day. For instance, you can lower the heat in the winter while you’re at work and set it to automatically rise just before you return home.

This scheduling feature helps optimize energy usage and saves money on utility bills by ensuring that your HVAC system isn’t working harder than necessary when you’re not home. It can also reduce the chance of premature wear and tear on your HVAC system since it won’t run as frequently.

Additional Features of Smart Thermostats

For those who enjoy the additional features that come with smart technology, smart thermostats offer a range of additional benefits that set them apart from their programmable counterparts. These include:

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Smart thermostats connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, enabling remote control via your smartphone or tablet. This feature proves incredibly convenient if you forget to adjust the thermostat before leaving for work or vacation.

Learning Capabilities

Some smart thermostats are equipped with advanced machine learning algorithms that automatically adapt to your schedule and preferences over time. By learning your habits, these thermostats optimize energy usage without requiring manual input from you, ensuring maximum comfort while minimizing energy waste.

Geofencing

Another common feature among smart thermostats is geofencing, which utilizes the GPS location of your smartphone to establish a virtual perimeter around your home. When your smartphone leaves or enters this designated area, the smart thermostat detects the change and adjusts the temperature settings accordingly, optimizing energy usage based on your presence.

Energy Reports

Many smart thermostats provide detailed monthly energy usage reports, allowing you to track your consumption patterns and identify opportunities for energy savings.

Price Difference Between Smart and Programmable Thermostats

Another difference between smart thermostats and programmable thermostats is the cost. Smart thermostats come with a higher upfront cost due to their advanced features and connectivity options, typically running about $200 to $250. However, for many homeowners, the added convenience and energy-saving potential justify the initial investment. Programmable thermostats typically cost between $20 and $100 and are ideal for individuals seeking a budget-friendly option with basic scheduling functionalities.

Choosing the Right Type of Thermostat for Your Home

While both smart thermostats and programmable thermostats offer the convenience of pre-setting temperature schedules, smart thermostats go a step further with features like Wi-Fi connectivity, learning capabilities, geofencing, and energy reports. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget.