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How a WiFi Thermostat Can Save You Money

Smart Home

April 02, 2019

A smart thermostat, also known as a WiFi thermostat, can help you cut down on energy costs while also giving you optimal (and remote) control of your home's heating and cooling system. Here’s how a smart thermostat can benefit your home.

What is a smart thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a home automation device that regulates your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system through use of artificial intelligence and a connection to the Internet. While a standard thermostat acts as a simple control panel for your HVAC system, a smart thermostat can “learn” how to regulate the temperature according to your preferences. You can also control your thermostat from your phone. Either program the device based on a set schedule, or allow it to adjust itself based on your routines and behaviors.

Smart thermostats are one type of home automation device that can be included in a home security system package.

How does a smart thermostat work?

A smart thermostat is connected to the Internet through an Internet Protocol (IP) network. This IP connection allows users to remotely control the thermostat from a computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, or other Web application. You can turn the thermostat on or off, or change its scheduled programming, from afar.

Many standard, programmable thermostats allow you to pre-set your desired temperatures in the home. So why choose a smart vs. programmable thermostat? A smart version not only allows you to manage your thermostat remotely, but the device can also automatically adjust settings based on a change in your routine, or even shifts in the weather. Here’s what the “smart” option can do:

  • Smart thermostats adjust the temperature when you’re asleep or away.
  • Smart thermostats use artificial intelligence to anticipate a changes in outdoor temperature, then allow your system to adjust without wasting energy.
  • Some models with geofencing can change the temperature when it senses that you’re on the way home.

Will a smart thermostat save money?

Smart thermostats can help homeowners and families save money every month. Because they heat and cool only when and where you need it, you have more control over the energy your system uses. And because they learn and adjust to your routines, they become more efficient over time. Smart thermostats can also provide you with insights and data so you can see when (and where) you’re using the most energy.

These energy-saving thermostats are efficient and eco-friendly, cutting the cost of your monthly utility bill. The average American family spends $900 a year heating and cooling their homes. According to EnergyStar, this can be greatly reduced with the use of a more energy-efficient smart thermostat.

How do I install a WiFi thermostat?

Use these steps to get started on your WiFi thermostat installation:

  1. Install the thermostat following the manual directions, or have your smart thermostat installed by a professional.
  2. Set up your login credentials and password.
  3. Customize your preferences using the wireless thermostat's control panel, desktop portal, or corresponding heating and cooling icons.
  4. Download the corresponding app and start controlling your thermostat from your phone.

After your smart thermostat is installed, set up some initial rules for what temperature each room in your home should be at a specific time of day. Ensure that these rules do not contradict one another, and keep in mind that you can always change your saved heating or cooling temperature settings based on the changing seasons, or inclement weather. Any programming that you configure from your computer or mobile device will be directly applied to your WiFi-enabled thermostat device.

An Internet-connected thermostat will help you efficiently manage energy costs and take total control of your home's heating and cooling systems. Xfinity Home can help you install a smart thermostat as part of a full home automation system.

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