There’s been a lot of talk these days about smart homes, but what does this term mean exactly, and should you have one? A smart home essentially refers to a house that’s kitted out in the latest technological features, usually all connected to one network, that make your life a little bit easier. This could range from something such as a smart fridge that tells you when your food is going out of date to a smart doorbell you can answer even when you’re not home.

A smart thermostat, however, is arguably one of the most useful out of all of the latest advances in smart technology. There are a number of different functions that make this the case. Read on to find out where they are.

What Is a Smart Thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a special type of digital thermostat. It allows homeowners to do a number of different things with their HVAC systems.

For example, it allows you to be able to check and change the temperature of your house from your phone or tablet device when you’re not there. You can also program custom schedules for the heat or air conditioning to come on at specific times of day or days of the week.

Like many smart devices, it can also be connected to other devices in your home—your dehumidifier, Alexa, or ventilation systems—to give you greater control and oversight of the conditions in your home. It can also send you alerts to let you know if something goes wrong while you’re away. Some models even offer a geofencing feature that will trigger your HVAC system to turn on when it senses you’re approaching.

Finally, smart thermostats generate energy reports, so that you’ll be able to see how much you’re spending, and where you might be able to save on your energy costs.

Is a Smart Thermostat Right for You?

Some people prefer to keep things simple, so if you don’t think you’d enjoy having a smart thermostat, that’s completely understandable. However, before you make up your mind, you should consider some of the benefits of getting one installed in your home.

Smart thermostats can save you money. By heating and cooling your home more efficiently, you’ll be able to use less energy and waste less money. The energy reports they provide are also great for helping in this regard.

Finally, smart thermostats can help you to be kinder to the planet. Because of the customization and efficiency it allows for, you’ll be able to ensure you never waste energy when you don’t need to. They’re even approved by the government’s Energy Star initiative.

Consider Installing a Smart Thermostat Today

If all of the above possibilities a smart thermostat allows for have you excited, you should consider installing one in your home today. This type of device won’t be for everyone, but if you let it, it can change your life in many ways.

If you’re in the Longview, TX area, and you’d like to discuss smart thermostat installation or anything else, call Alco Air today. We’ll be happy to help.