What’s all the flap about wireless vs. smart thermostats? The model chosen should depend on the homeowner’s level of tech savvy and the lifestyle of the home’s occupants. There are some significant differences, and it’s important to consider them. Let’s clear up some confusion you may have about wireless vs. smart.
Wireless vs. Smart: What’s the Difference?
Smart and wireless (or Wi-Fi) thermostats have similarities and some major differences.
The major similarity is that they both connect to the internet. They can also both be controlled by a device connected to the internet, such as a cellphone, and are accessed through an app. The major difference is that a Wi-Fi thermostat, unlike smart models, can’t learn from the way you use it. You must set it to perform whatever actions you want it to perform based on sensor readings. For instance, you can program your Wi-Fi thermostat to let you know when the temperature in your home falls during a snowstorm. That way, you know to log on and raise the temperature to keep your home comfortable.
But here’s a typical smart thermostat scenario: You are usually gone between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., so you allow the thermostat reading to go down a few degrees during that time for greater energy efficiency. The smart thermostat knows to do this, but it will also start raising the temperature to a more comfortable level by the time you normally come home. A smart thermostat can also sense if you leave home early and can apply the more efficient temperature settings at that point.
While smart thermostats have some advantages, some homeowners who need to change their schedules frequently find they don’t like the smart thermostat making frequent changes it “thinks” are appropriate.
To sum up the wireless vs. smart debate, smart thermostats are Wi-Fi thermostats, but Wi-Fi thermostats lack some of the features of a smart thermostat.
If you’re still wondering about wireless vs. smart thermostats, contact Ace Hardware Home Services. We provide the Dayton area with quality HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance.
