Thermostats & Controls

Controlling Comfort In Your House

When mechanical systems were less sophisticated and whole home performance was not a major consideration, the control system was a simple thermostat that you just set and forgot. Today, the right set of controls for your HVAC system can keep you comfortable and reduce energy costs year round.

Thermostats are the most commonly recognized controls for heating and cooling systems. HVAC systems can also have smart controls that work behind your thermostat, with a central ‘brain’ that takes information from outdoor and indoor sensors to match the supply of heat or cooling to the demands in different areas of your house.

Types of Thermostats

There are three types of thermostats on the market:

1. Non-programmable thermostats are the most affordable, but not very accurate and must be set manually.
2. Digital and programmable thermostats are more precise, and allow you to control when, and for how long, your heating or cooling system comes on.
3. Wireless or remote thermostats allow you to manage your home heating and cooling regime – and more – from apps on your phone or tablet.

Changing out a manual thermostat for a digital or programmable one can cut nearly 10 percent from your yearly energy bill. A wireless or remote thermostat has more ‘smarts’ than a programmable unit and can cut up to 20 percent from your energy bill.

“Smart” Illinois Home Services

A smart home is one that is connected and communicating with itself and you, no matter if you’re at home or away. You access your system controls via an internet-enabled computer, smartphone or tablet.

Smart technology allows you to remotely monitor temperatures and manage energy use for optimal efficiency and comfort. Some systems even link into security features like locks, lights and cameras. However, the best smart home control system will be different for every household.

Whether you are looking for a standard programmable thermostat or a Wi-Fi communicating thermostat, we have your bases covered.

AAA Northgate is a certified Nest Thermostat installer in Central Illinois.

The Nest learns your schedule, programs itself and can be controlled from your phone. Many other products are being made to ‘Work with Nest.’ Security, appliances, and lights top a growing list of products that connect easily and seamlessly with Nest.

Home Automation

When it comes to home automation, few devices can make as big an impact on your energy usage as a new thermostat. It’s important to understand what types of temperature control, energy management and sensor features to look for. Then match that up with how the overall design, aesthetics and product support is available from a manufacturer. Combine these pieces of the puzzle to get the right smart thermostat for your home.

AAA Northgate recommends starting with an energy audit to determine which type of thermostat is best for your Peoria-area household.

It’s time to start saving money with the right thermostat. Contact us for more information about updating your thermostats!