Our burgeoning technology industry is impacting our lives for the better. Computer-based technology has increased efficiency and improved cost savings. Programmable thermostats are getting more popular in our homes. They save money and reduce energy consumption. Smart and Wi-Fi thermostats are now popular items in most U.S. households. Let’s discern the difference between smart thermostats and Wi-Fi thermostats.
What Do Smart and Wi-Fi Thermostats Have in Common?
Like smart thermostats, Wi-Fi thermostats are programmed for use in the home. Both systems rely on computer technology to keep your home at a temperature that’s ideal for you. Each type controls the temperature in your home. This feature requires a special app that you can download on any device.
These thermostats have some similarities. Both have advanced technology that ensures a suitable temperature when you’re away. Plus, they reduce your carbon footprint and save on the environment.
Imagine a thermostat that you don’t have to adjust throughout the day or at night. Both smart and Wi-Fi thermostats give you this freedom. Plus, you can be assured that your home will remain at a steady temperature thermostat types save you a lot of money on heating and cooling costs regardless of weather.
But it’s easy to confuse the two. There are some differences between smart and Wi-Fi thermostats every homeowner should know.
Smart vs. Wi-Fi: What’s the Difference?
Both smart and Wi-Fi thermostats are programmable. They keep the temperature steady throughout your home. They’re good for anyone wanting to save money. But there are some differences.
One significant difference is knowledge of personal use. Both systems will alert you if the temperature in your home falls below 70 °. A smart thermostat will auto-adjust the temperature without effort on your part. A Wi-Fi system requires you to log on to your app and tweak the temperature straight from your device. Unlike Wi-Fi-controlled HVAC units, smart thermostats know your habits. They learn from your daily habits and can begin to function independently over time.
Imagine knowing that the temperature in your room is either too hot or too cold. Your body knows what it needs to sustain itself regardless of climate. That’s exactly how smart thermostats work. These systems rely on AI technology to detect changes in indoor climate. If you own a smart thermostat, you are in luck. Technology like this is so intuitive that it can pick up on the slightest change in temperature.
A smart thermostat uses geofencing technology, which detects your presence. If you’re within a certain GPS range, it alerts the thermostat. It sends a signal to the HVAC to turn the fan on. Your system automatically kicks on to a suitable temperature once you arrive.
A Wi-Fi thermostat needs to be preprogrammed to function. It relies on specific commands that you input from your device. The good news is that you can adjust your system to the correct temperature from afar. You can even command it to turn off during the day while you’re at work. Much like a smart thermostat, it responds to specific commands. It can help you save on energy costs and reduce environmental waste. Unlike the smart system, it lacks intuition. It doesn’t have knowledge of your daily habits or your whereabouts.
Are Wi-Fi Thermostats a Good Investment?
If you’re looking to save money, a Wi-Fi thermostat is a good investment. You have complete control over your HVAC right from your device. Some Wi-Fi thermostats come with a lock mechanism, which you can access anywhere from a computer or your phone.
Let’s say you’re having friends and family stay from out of town. You’re concerned about their comfort, but you’d prefer that they not adjust the temperature. The lock feature prevents that. It blocks access to the thermostat from a remote location. All you have to do is tap the settings menu and go to the lock feature. You enter a code and press Lock. If you want to deactivate this feature, follow the same prompts and press Unlock.
Wi-Fi thermostats are like smart systems in that they allow users to program them from a distance. But there’s one key difference. Your smart thermostat is far more intuitive than a Wi-Fi-controlled system in that it doesn’t need to wait for a command.
Smart Thermostat vs. Wi-Fi Thermostat: Which Is Better?
If you’re thinking of upgrading your system, it’s best to consider your preferences. If you have a busy life, a smart thermostat is a better option. You can program it according to your schedule.
A smart thermostat can detect you from a distance of 100 meters. That’s roughly 328 feet from your home’s perimeter. It picks up on your presence before you enter your home. It sends a signal to the fan, which then prompts your HVAC to turn on immediately to the desired temperature.
Smart systems require some knowledge of modern technology. You may have to manually set the perimeters yourself. Some apps such as the Sensi app allow the system to turn on if you’re within three miles of your house.
Other Considerations
Smart thermostats detect temperatures throughout your home. They collect data and analyze it in real-time. From there, the smart thermostat automatically switches to the correct temperature. This differentiates them from programmable models because they act independently. In a sense, the smart thermostat is just like a human. It makes decisions about temperature using machine learning technology.
Smart thermostats have another edge over other heating and cooling systems. They use sensors to detect multiple temperatures in every room. Information is used to determine the best setting for each area. If you need a warmer temperature for the bedroom or living area, you can get it from the smart thermostat. You can preset it through the settings on your app, and the rest takes care of itself.
Should a Professional Install a New Thermostat?
Every new thermostat comes with a warranty. Some terms are explicit regarding DIY installation. In most cases, any attempt to install your new thermostat will void your warranty should something go wrong. This is one reason to call a professional. Another major risk is electric shock. A professional is specifically trained to handle electric wiring prior to installation.
The thermostat wiring is intricate. It’s a complex system with different types of wires and their colors. Wireless HVAC systems that use smart thermostats have five different wire sets. Each is color-coded to denote its function:
- C wire: (usually black or blue and turns on the thermostat)
- R wire: (powers your heating and cooling through the furnace and is usually red)
- G wire: (kicks the fan on to distribute an even temperature and is coded as green)
- Y wire: (coded as yellow and is responsible for air conditioning)
- W wire: (provides heat and is coded white)
Call the Pros
Electric wires are confusing to work with, especially with HVAC systems. Upgrading your thermostat requires the expertise of a professional. In Fresno, CA, and the surrounding area, you can call the professionals at Grandmark Service Company. We offer high-quality heating, cooling, roofing, and solar services to fit all your home comfort needs. To learn more, contact Grandmark Service Company today!
