How do I Choose the Best Automatic Thermostat?

Choosing a programmable or automatic thermostat can help save energy while maintaining temperatures efficiently. Many consumers, however, encounter problems when attempting to program these thermostats due to complicated, multi-step displays. In choosing the best automatic thermostat, look for models that get high ratings by consumers for their ease of use and manufacturers' technical support services. Programming an automatic thermostat incorrectly can actually increase your energy consumption.

Temperature control should be one of the first things considered when looking for an automatic thermostat. Find a model that quickly senses changes in temperature so that it can promptly trigger your heating or cooling units. Temperature accuracy is also extremely important. Be sure the model you choose is able to accurately maintain temperatures within a degree or two.

Watching online videos that demonstrate how each automatic thermostat is programmed can help you assess which models are the easiest to use. Look for clear, legible displays and prompts that make programming the unit more intuitive. If power outages are common in your area, verify that the unit stores programming information for retrieval.

Using the programming interface is another important consideration. Many automatic thermostats offer touch-sensitive screens, which are often easier to program. Another option is voice programming for those who may have difficulty pushing tiny, poorly-labeled buttons and controls. Also, some units offer phone programming so that the user can set and change the automatic thermostat from anywhere and at any time.

Some automatic thermostats have a hold function that enables you to temporarily override programmed settings. When available, look for a display that clearly signals this status so it will serve as a reminder to resume automatic operation. The display should also indicate if the heating or air conditioning system is operating.

Some manufacturers have begun making their automatic thermostats easier to use by building in energy-saving programs. Though they can help to reduce energy consumption, these "one-size-fits-all" programs do not offer the optimal settings and flexibility of programs created from scratch by the homeowner. In addition, automatic thermostats with built-in programs still require the homeowner to enter certain data, such as the date and time.

There are a number of special features to also consider, such as vacation settings and alerts that remind you to change air filters. Some units also signal malfunctions in the heating or cooling system. An adaptive recovery feature, sometimes referred to as smart recovery, calculates the time necessary for the system to reach a specified temperature at a programmed time.

Your schedule and lifestyle should be the ultimate consideration in finding the right programmable thermostat. If your daily routine changes from day to day due to varying schedules, a 7-day model lets you create unique programs for each day of the week. A 5+2 unit lets you set two schedules: one for weekends, and the other for weekdays. A 5-1-1 unit lets you set one schedule for weekdays and unique schedules for Saturday and Sunday.