Programmable vs. Smart Thermostat: Which One is Best for You?

Are you tired of constantly cranking your AC up and down throughout the day to find a comfortable temperature? You already know that to use your thermostat most efficiently, you should adjust the setting according to the time of day and whether you are home. Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat takes the nonstop work out of manually adjusting your AC settings throughout the day. So, what’s the difference between programmable and smart thermostats? Which is better for you?

Similarities

Both programmable and smart thermostats help you save money on your electricity bill by allowing you to preset your air conditioner according to your schedule. This helps you optimize your energy consumption by aligning your AC usage with your daily habits.

For example, in the hotter months, you can set the temperature on your programmable or smart thermostat to be higher while you’re out and lower while you’re home. Each day is programmable, so if you have different daily schedules, you can set them accordingly.

The main benefit of these thermostats is that they save you money. They reduce how hard your AC unit has to work during the day when you’re not home. Also, since your HVAC system won’t be running constantly, they help reduce long-term wear and tear.

Differences

The main difference between the two types of thermostats are the extra features found in smart thermostats, which have WiFi connectivity, geofencing, learning capabilities, and energy reports. WiFi connectivity means you can control your AC from wherever you are as long as you are connected to WiFi. 

Geofencing is a built-in feature that puts a perimeter around your house. When your phone leaves that perimeter, your smart thermostat automatically adjusts the AC to conserve energy. 

Smart thermostats are always learning. They have the ability to optimize your settings based on your habits and schedule. They also use this information to create energy reports where you can see how much energy you use monthly. This helps you identify opportunities to adjust your settings to save you the most money!

Costs

Another notable difference between programmable and smart thermostats is cost. The purchase price of programmable thermostats generally stay under $100, while smart thermostats can run upwards of $200. The best choice for you depends on your budget, lifestyle, and whether you think the extra investment in a smart thermostat is worth the potential energy savings in the long-run.

Whether you choose a programmable or smart thermostat, Pronto Power is here to help you make the best financial decisions for your budget with prepaid electricity. Contact us today to get started!