What Are Programmable Thermostats?

A thermostat is a component of cooling and heating systems that has a sensor that can measure and control the temperature. It is also able to control actions within the furnace, air conditioner, or any other controlled system. It can for instance turn the system on and off and regulate the flow rate of heat transfer fluid. These activities help with ensuring that the temperature that has been set is reached and kept steady at an office or home.

Differences Between Manual and Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats are different from manual ones in that a programmable thermostat can adjust the temperature setting automatically based on the parameters the user puts into the system. The temperature can, for example, be set higher or lower for different times of the day.

Although some non-digital thermostats can still be found in older offices and homes, most modern ones are digital. These have a thermistor that is used to measure the temperature. A thermistor contains metals that change when the ambient temperature changes. In the thermistor, electrical resistance also changes when the temperature changes.

Thermostat Microcontrollers

Another key element of a thermostat is the microcontroller. It measures the electrical resistance, and this is then converted into a temperature reading, allowing a digital thermostat to sense temperature. The microcontroller uses programmable settings that can be adjusted so the thermostat increases or decreases the temperature at varying times. You could for example program a thermostat to increase the temperature in the morning and then lower it after you have left for work. It can then increase the temperature again before you arrive back home. Programmable thermostats can normally be set to regulate the temperature within a 24-hour window, depending on the home’s temperature variations.

Programmable thermostats are very useful if you use zoning in your property. This is done by cooling or heating different areas or zones in your building using different temperatures. This configuration is ideal for bigger, multi-level buildings. As hot air rises, areas on the lower floors tend to have lower temperatures than those on higher floors. This issue is addressed easily by using a programmable thermostat with a different setting in the zones allowing you to control the temperature better. This allows the temperature to stay constant and consistent throughout the building.

Programmable Thermostat Benefits

There are a number of advantages a programmable thermostat will bring to your property in San Antonio, TX.

• Improved Comfort: The temperature is adjusted automatically by a programmable thermostat. The rooms in your office or home are therefore able to be maintained at the set temperature throughout the day, and your family receives the comfort it deserves.
• Automatic Temperature Adjustment: A programmable thermostat can heat or cool rooms in different zones at specific times. As this is done automatically, you don’t have to keep manually adjusting the temperature. This is very convenient as you don’t even have to touch your thermostat when changing the temperatures.
• Older HVAC Systems are Less Stressed: Programmable thermostats help ensure that there is less strain on an older heating and cooling system during its operation. This helps if your system operates constantly as it limits wearing out components. It may also prolong the lifespan of an older HVAC unit. Note that programmable thermostats cannot always be retrofitted to an older HVAC system.
• Zone Temperature Control: When using a programmable thermostat, achieving enhanced temperature control for zones becomes easy. This is due to different rooms or HVAC zones being cooled or heated independently of each other. The thermostat can even be switched off in rooms that are not occupied.
• Saving Costs: Programmable thermostats enhance a home’s cost-effectiveness because they let you use different temperature settings depending on the day’s schedule. This means your HVAC unit won’t have to run at 100% throughout the day. The temperatures can be increased or decreased, and the system can even be turned off, depending on personal preferences.

Can The Automatic Temperature Setting Be Overridden?

All programmable thermostats can be operated manually by overriding their automatic system. This will allow you to still be able to control the system without the temperatures being set automatically. Remote monitoring and control are very convenient. You don’t have to be at home or even get close to your thermostat to change the temperatures whenever you need to. Modern thermostats often have Wi-Fi capabilities built-in and can be programmed remotely via a laptop or smartphone. This can be very convenient if you have forgotten to set the HVAC system and have already left the house.

Installing a Programmable Thermostat in San Antonio, TX

A programmable thermostat will provide you with cost savings, convenience, improved comfort, and better temperature control. It is very handy for building occupants and homeowners who like certain temperatures at specific times.

If this seems like something you would be interested in, contact bluefrog Plumbing + Drain + HVAC of San Antonio, TX at 210-876-1629 today to discuss your requirements. We will help you determine the most suitable features for your cooling and heating requirements and preferences.