by Above & Beyond Services Heating and Cooling

Technology has improved every facet of our lives, including our home comfort. A smart HVAC system is an innovative option that relies on networked components, sensors and Internet of Things devices to control indoor temperature.

For your convenience, a smart HVAC system can allow you to regulate several elements, including fan speed, humidity and sometimes even lighting. You can also operate your smart HVAC from a mobile app instead of manually.

Smart HVAC systems have multiple advantages. First, they can save you money because they are programmable. They also help you reduce HVAC repair and maintenance expenses by preventing premature depreciation of your system. Read on for our comprehensive smart HVAC guide.

How Smart HVAC Systems Work

A traditional central HVAC unit has a single unit controlled by a thermostat. If this thermostat doesn’t detect the set temperature, it turns on the heat or air conditioning. If you feel too hot or cold, you must manually adjust the thermostat.

In contrast, a smart HVAC is a system that adjusts the temperature in each part of your home based on demand and occupancy. There is one sensor, one thermostat and one smart vent in each room. Thanks to internet connectivity, all these elements “talk” to each other to regulate your ideal temperature. With smart HVAC technology, you can save money by not heating or cooling unoccupied rooms, decreasing the temperature in most parts of your house without even noticing it.

A smart HVAC system also has a remote control you can use to change the thermostat. If you install the compatible smartphone app, you can access your HVAC settings when you’re at work or even on vacation.

Additionally, it is possible to automate your heating and cooling by programming various schedules for different days of the week. For example, unless you work from home, it’s wasteful to run your heat or air conditioner all day. Instead, you can automate a smart HVAC system to turn on before you return home in the evening. Finally, smart HVAC systems offer remote energy monitoring to optimize HVAC performance around the clock.

Advantages of Smart HVAC Systems

Conventional HVAC systems can be wasteful because they lack the ability to detect air leakage. Conversely, a smart HVAC system will notify you of temperature changes via interconnected thermostats. The system’s sensors can learn from your behavior, noticing the presence of people or pets in a room and adjusting the temperature appropriately. These energy-efficient features will save you money on your utility bills and give you more granular control over your home’s comfort levels.

Another benefit of a smart HVAC system is increased longevity. Older thermostats cycle on and off throughout the day, resulting in more wear and tear on the components. A smart HVAC’s sensors allow it to adjust automatically, causing less damage and strain and a longer lifespan.

If you have invested in other smart elements in your home, such as lighting and appliances, you can integrate your smart HVAC with them for additional comfort and convenience.

Components of Smart HVAC Systems

A smart HVAC system has multiple elements that work together to create the ideal environment in your household.

• Thermostats: Smart thermostats connect to the internet to allow you to remotely adjust the temperature with a smartphone app. Some thermostats are intelligent enough to learn and adapt based on your HVAC usage.
• Vents: HVAC vents facilitate airflow in and out of specific parts of your house. You can open and close smart vents without touching them, regulating temperature and maximizing your energy efficiency.
• Humidifiers and air purifiers: Achieving better indoor air quality can be challenging, but it’s essential if anyone in your household has respiratory issues like allergies or asthma. An air purifier removes pollutants from the air, while a humidifier helps maintain humidity levels. Incorporating them into your smart HVAC system can reduce your loved one’s symptoms and let everyone breathe more easily.
• Sensors: Environmental, occupancy and proximity sensors are crucial parts of a smart HVAC system. Environmental sensors monitor the system’s condition and alert you if something isn’t working correctly, while occupancy sensors detect movement and activity throughout your home. Finally, proximity sensors can tell how close you are to your house and can start regulating the temperature before you walk through the door.
  

Considerations and Limitations

Before you invest in a smart HVAC system, you’ll need to account for several factors.

Compatibility

A smart thermostat is always on, learning when people are home and adjusting the temperature as necessary. If you’re planning to install a smart thermostat, you’ll need to ensure your home has a common wire, or C-wire. This wire gives a Wi-Fi thermostat continuous power to heat and cool your house. Most newer homes have a C-wire, but an older house might not.

Internet Connectivity Requirements

You need a reliable wireless internet connection to adjust your smart HVAC. Your remote control device, such as a phone or tablet, will also require an internet connection.

Additional Costs for Equipment and Installation

Smart HVAC components may require a higher upfront cost than traditional HVAC systems. However, they often pay for themselves over time by requiring less maintenance and reducing your energy bills.

Learn More About Smart HVAC Systems in Delaware

If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s heating and cooling, Above & Beyond is here for you. We offer free estimates on every new or replacement residential and commercial HVAC system installation. Our experienced technicians will listen to your needs and give you an honest evaluation and reasonable recommendations. We will never try to sell you anything you don’t need, and you can trust us to get the job done right the first time, every time.

Our five-star reviews from satisfied customers and our A+ BBB rating are a testament to the reputation we’ve built over the years. Call us today to schedule your complimentary in-home estimate for a smart HVAC system. We’re ready to take your call 24/7, even on weekends and holidays.