Signs You Need a Thermostat Upgrade
If your thermostat is more than ten years old, you might want to consider a thermostat upgrade in Granbury, TX.
Installing a programmable smart thermostat provides more accurate temperature readings, allowing you to easily manage the temperature inside your Granbury home.
Even better, there’s no need to replace your whole HVAC system. All you need to do is get the new thermostat installed.
While you don’t necessarily need a professional to install a new thermostat, it is something that we advise to ensure the best possible outcomes and prevent future problems. This is especially true if you lack experience installing electrical wiring, as thermostats rely on wiring to function correctly.
As Granbury residents, we understand the hot summer days require temperature control for comfort inside of your home. With this in mind, a functional thermostat is essential.
Reasons to Upgrade Your Thermostat
Upgrading your thermostat can be beneficial in many ways. Here are a few reasons why you might want to upgrade:
- Gives you greater control over your home temperature.
- Allows you to program in prefixed heating and cooling schedules.
- Some allow for variable-speed compressor operation.
- Improves energy efficiency – You’ll be able to maximize heating and cooling power while reducing energy consumption.
Preparing for a New Thermostat Installation
Before you upgrade your thermostat, you’ll have to consider:
- Compatibility: Your new thermostat must be compatible with your HVAC system.
- HVAC Zones: Most homes or buildings have one cooling/heating zone, so you’ll only need one thermostat. If you have more than one HVAC zone, you’ll need a thermostat for each zone. HVAC systems like mini-splits often have thermostats built into them, so you may not need a separate thermostat.
- Mobile support: Many thermostats today can be controlled through your smartphone. You’ll be able to control your temperature from anywhere.
Types of Thermostats for Granbury Homes
Four types of thermostats are available today for home use.
- Non-programmable: A basic thermostat that is adjusted manually to your ideal preference.
- Programmable: Allows you to pre-program the temperature based on when you’re home and at night. These thermostats can be set for each day of the week to reduce usage when you’re not at home.
- Wi-Fi: A thermostat that can be accessed via a wireless network. You are able to adjust the temperature while you’re away. You can even override the programmed setting if desired.
- Smart: Smart thermostats integrate with other automation tools and equipment in your home, learning your lifestyle habits and then adjusting the temperature accordingly.
Thermostat FAQ’s
How do Thermostats Break?
Typical problems that occur include faulty wiring and dead batteries. If your thermostat is failing, you can take the cover off and check the wiring for problems like frayed wires or test the batteries for an adequate charge.
The older your thermostat is, the more likely it will begin to have problems.
Will Any Thermostat Work With my HVAC system?
This depends on what type of thermostat you are upgrading. For smart thermostats, you’ll need to make sure the thermostat is compatible with the system.
For other types of thermostats, most are compatible with any system, as long as the thermostat is low voltage.
If you have a high-voltage HVAC system, you’ll want to check the manufacturer’s manual or website for compatible thermostats.
What Should You Do When a Thermostat Stops Working?
When trying to diagnose the problem, start by changing the batteries. If the batteries don’t work, check the fuse box or circuit breaker (only if you know what you’re doing).
A common next step is removing the cover and brush or blowing away dust using a small paintbrush or canned air. If none of those measures work, it’s probably time for a thermostat upgrade.
A thermostat can stop working for several reasons. Dead batteries or faulty wiring are common problems. Tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses also cause thermostats to stop working.
Should I Leave the Thermostat at a Constant Temperature?
The short answer is “No.” If you leave your thermostat at the same temperature all the time, you’ll waste energy and cause more wear and tear on your system.
It’s better to adjust your thermostat according to the weather. According to Energy Star, depending on the season, your thermostat should be set between 70 degrees and 78 degrees while at home. When you’re not at home, the temperature should be raised by about 8 degrees for more efficient operation.
Making these changes is easy with a programmable thermostat. With smart thermostats, you can change the temperatures anywhere and anytime as long as you have your smartphone handy to make the change.
How Much Money Will a New Thermostat Save Me?
New thermostats will save you money because they will help your HVAC system run more efficiently. According to Energy Star, you can save about 8% on your energy bills by installing an Energy Star-certified smart thermostat.
How much money you actually save will, however, depend on how you use the thermostat. Efforts like adjusting the temperatures according to the weather will also ensure you save money.
You can also check with your utility company to see if they offer any incentives for installing a smart thermostat. Some utility companies even offer their customers free thermostats as an incentive to install them.
Of course, installing a new thermostat isn’t the only factor affecting money-saving.
Here are other things that will affect costs:
- The age of your HVAC system
- The insulation in your attic
- The age and condition of the windows
- The number of people living in the household
- Where you live and your family’s lifestyle
Thermostat Upgrades in Granbury, TX
Are you looking for help with a thermostat upgrade in Granbury, TX? Our technicians ensure your new thermostat is compatible with your system. In addition, we install it professionally so that it works efficiently and effectively. Set up a service appointment by calling 817-579-9377.
