Thermostat
If your home doesn’t stay at the right temperature no matter how many times you adjust it, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it’s a sign that something’s off. Don't let poor climate control run your comfort or your energy bills; professional service can get things back on track fast. At We Fix It Home Services, LLC, our NATE-certified technicians and 4.9-star reputation prove we’ve got the know-how to tackle the issue and get your thermostat working perfectly the first time.
Best Thermostat Types for Every HVAC System Explained
Not all systems are created equal. Choosing the right one depends on your HVAC system and your lifestyle. Here’s a quick breakdown of types and where they shine:
- Manual Thermostats: These are the most straightforward and most affordable option for controlling your home's temperature. They’re straightforward to use, with no complicated features, making them ideal for homes with predictable schedules. Their no-frills operation also means fewer components that could malfunction, providing reliability over the long term.
- Programmable Thermostats: A great choice for families or individuals with regular routines. This allows you to create daily or weekly temperature schedules so your home automatically adjusts when you're sleeping, at work, or away. This not only saves energy but also ensures your home is always at a comfortable temperature when you need it to be.
- Smart Thermostats: The high-tech option that takes convenience to the next level. Smart thermostats are designed to learn your daily schedule and optimize temperature settings accordingly, enhancing both comfort and energy efficiency. Most models also offer remote access through smartphone applications, allowing you to manage your home’s climate from virtually anywhere. They also integrate seamlessly with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home, enabling hands-free adjustments.
- Zoned Thermostats: Zoned thermostats are ideal for larger homes or households with varying temperature needs. They allow you to manage the temperature of different areas or “zones” in your house independently. This allows you to condition only the occupied areas of your home, helping reduce energy use and lower utility bills, while ensuring personalized comfort in every space.
Choosing the right system helps improve energy efficiency, comfort, and the longevity of your HVAC system. Let us help you select one that fits your needs and budget.
Thermostat Placement Tips for Precise Temperature Readings
Believe it or not, where your device is makes a big difference in how well it works. Here are some tips to make sure yours is in the best spot:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Installing your thermostat near windows or in direct sunlight can result in skewed temperature readings, as the device may register heat from the sun rather than the actual room temperature—leading to inefficient system performance. Choose a shaded area away from direct exposure to sunlight.
- Keep It Away from Vents or Drafts: Air blowing from supply vents, fans, or outside drafts can make your thermostat think the room is warmer or cooler than it actually is, causing your HVAC system to work harder than needed. Ensure it’s installed in an area free from strong air currents.
- Install on an Interior Wall: Exterior walls are more affected by outdoor temperatures and may not reflect the actual temperature inside your home. Mounting your thermostat on an interior wall in a central location ensures more consistent readings and better temperature control.
- Position It Centrally: Place the thermostat in a room you and your family use most often, like the living room or family room. A central location helps the thermostat measure the temperature in the most frequently used areas, ensuring comfort where it matters most.
- Avoid Kitchens or Bathrooms: Kitchens and bathrooms often experience sudden temperature and humidity changes due to cooking or hot showers. These spikes can mislead your thermostat into thinking the entire home is warmer or more humid than it truly is, causing unnecessary adjustments to your HVAC system.
Proper placement ensures better temperature regulation and reduces the strain on your HVAC system. If you're unsure where to mount yours, give us a call—we'll help you pinpoint the perfect spot.
What HVAC Techs Want You to Know About Thermostat Settings
Most of us set the temperature and walk away, but here’s what technicians wish more homeowners knew:
- Know the Optimal Range: To save on energy bills, set your thermostat between 76–78°F during summer months—it’s energy-efficient and keeps your home comfortable without overworking your HVAC system. In winter, aim for 68–70°F to stay warm while still conserving energy and reducing long-term wear on your heating unit. These small temperature adjustments can lead to significant savings on your monthly energy bills over time.
- Use Eco or Away Modes: Your thermostat's eco-friendly or away modes automatically reduce energy usage when no one is home, saving money while maintaining a comfortable return temperature. These settings adjust the temperature efficiently, helping you conserve energy without sacrificing comfort when you come back.
- Don’t Overwork It: Avoid cranking the thermostat way up or down when you need to heat or cool your home quickly. This will not speed up the process and can strain your HVAC system, leading to potential wear and tear or higher energy costs. Instead, set the thermostat to your desired temperature and let the system work at its normal pace.
- Fan Settings Matter: Set your fan to “Auto” rather than “On” for better efficiency and reduced wear on your system. This ensures the fan only runs when actively heating or cooling your home, preventing unnecessary energy use, improving system longevity, and keeping your home comfortable year-round.
A few setting changes can boost efficiency and comfort without lifting a finger. Ask our team to optimize your thermostat during your next HVAC service.
Thermostat Installation Checklist for DIY‑Minded Homeowners
Thinking of installing a new system? It’s doable with a bit of patience and the proper prep. Here's your quick checklist before diving in:
- Turn Off the Power: Safety comes first. Before starting, flip the breaker or turn off the power to your HVAC system to avoid the risk of electrical shocks while working. For extra precaution, double-check that the power is completely off by testing with a voltage tester.
- Label the Wires: Before removing your old thermostat, take a clear photo of the wiring setup or use small stickers to label each wire. This will make reconnecting wires to the new thermostat much easier and avoid any guesswork. Be meticulous, as even one misplaced wire can cause malfunctions.
- Check Compatibility: Not all thermostats are compatible with every HVAC system. Read the instructions or check the product details to ensure your new thermostat works with your specific heating and cooling setup. If in doubt, consult the manufacturer or a professional technician who can confirm compatibility and prevent potential damage.
- Mount Level & Secure: When placing the new thermostat on the wall, use a level to ensure it’s straight. A crooked thermostat can result in inaccurate temperature readings and affect the performance of your HVAC system. Secure it firmly to avoid future issues like loosening or wobbling over time.
- Test It: Once everything is connected, restore power to your HVAC system and test the thermostat. Adjust the temperature settings to make sure the system responds correctly, and monitor it for a while to confirm it’s working as it should. Ensure both heating and cooling settings function correctly, and refer to the manual if any issues arise.
DIY installs can be satisfying, but if you're ever unsure—or just want it done fast and right—our pros are a call away. We offer free estimates and no pressure.
Affordable Thermostat Upgrades with Easy Financing Options
Upgrading to a smart thermostat doesn’t have to break the bank. At We Fix It Home Services, LLC, we believe energy efficiency and comfort should be available to everyone. That’s why we offer a variety of smart, programmable, and Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats to suit your HVAC system—and your budget.
We also provide financing options to help you get what you need today and pay over time. Whether you’re upgrading your entire HVAC system or just modernizing your control panel, ask about our promotional deals and monthly plans. Your comfort is our top priority, and we make it easy to afford.
Get Your Free Estimate for Thermostat Installation or Replacement
Avoid uncomfortable summers or winters caused by a faulty thermostat. Whether you need a quick repair or a complete upgrade, We Fix It Home Services, LLC has you covered. Our skilled team will walk you through every step, clearly outline your options, and provide a free, transparent estimate tailored to your home and HVAC system. We make upgrades seamless, hassle-free, and affordable. Contact us today to restore your comfort with ease!