Many household systems now incorporate digital features and HVAC equipment is no exception. Today’s heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are more efficient, effective, and user-friendly because of technology that didn’t exist just a few years ago. Some of it’s integrated into new units, while some is available as upgrades or add-ons to existing systems already installed. For a more comfortable and healthy indoor environment, and greater convenience keeping it that way, here are some HVAC digital features to be aware of.
Thermostat Advances
That old manual thermostat on the wall is ready for a museum. Programmable thermostats automate temperature changes to meet your daily schedule and lifestyle. Compared to constant manual tweaking, programmed temperature changes are more consistent and operate the system the most energy-efficient way. Features like vacation mode when the house isn’t occupied and displays that remind you of regular maintenance like filter changes are also incorporated into many models. You don’t need an all-new system to get these benefits — most programmable models can adapt to existing HVAC systems.
Cloud Connectivity
As your home security and other household systems go on-line, so can your A/C and furnace. Wi-Fi-connected systems allow you to monitor and adjust your indoor environment from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop anywhere in the world. You can check home temperature and humidity and alter programmed settings. The system also alerts you of unusual temperature changes inside the house, system malfunctions, or maintenance issues.
Programmed Circulation
Low-tech, energy-inefficient HVAC blowers have only two speeds: full-blast and off. This “all or nothing” approach wastes energy and causes indoor temperatures to yo-yo as the system cycles on and off. New variable-speed blowers are programmable to operate across a wide range of speeds that match household temperature. Advanced ECM technology sips electricity, consuming only about 25 percent of the power as old-school on/off blower motors. Most existing air handlers can be upgraded to a variable-speed blower.
Since 1922, Paitson Bros. has stayed current with advancements in state-of-the-art heating and cooling technology. Ask us about the latest digital features available for home comfort and efficiency.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about purchasing a new HVAC system and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 772-207-1658.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “weedezign/Shutterstock”
One Comment
It would be so nice to have an HVAC unit that I could access online. I work odd hours so it is hard to program the system to be at the right temperature when I am not home. With this I could easily turn on the heat when I am heading home so I don’t have to sit in a cold house waiting for it to heat up. I’ll make sure to look for this feature when I get my new unit.