2. Consider Your HVAC System
Nearly all of our tested models work on common heating and cooling systems, but check the packaging for exceptions. This is especially a concern with smart thermostats, as not all models support all types of HVAC systems. For example, the Nest Thermostat E doesn’t support two-stage heat pump systems, but the Nest Learning Thermostat does. And if you have separate heating and cooling systems, you may need to install a separate thermostat for each system, as well as each zone of heating and cooling.

3. Scope Out Your Wiring
You’ll also want to open up your existing thermostat to see what kind of wiring you have. Most non-connected, programmable thermostats will work with as few as two low-voltage wires (common in older heating systems), but newer thermostats often require a common wire, or C-wire. The C-wire provides continuous power for features like displays and WiFi. If you aren’t sure if you have a C-wire, you’ll need to consult an HVAC technician.

If you know you don’t have a C-wire, but you really want a smart thermostat, you have a few options:

• Choose a model with a power adapter or power extender that allows you to add a C-wire to your system, like the Ecobee.
• Buy and install a third-party add-a-wire adapter.
• Pick a model from our ratings that doesn’t require a C-wire (look under the Features & Specs tab in our ratings table). Both Nest and Emerson claim you don’t need a C-wire for many systems, but some HVAC professionals caution against this arrangement, as it can damage your mechanical equipment.
• Have a C-wire professionally installed.

A Word About Installation-

Most non-connected thermostats can be wired easily into your heating and cooling system. Simply take a photo of the wired connection on your current thermostat so you know which wires go where and connect those wires to the corresponding ports on your new thermostat. Many smart thermostats will also include detailed installation instructions or video walk through to make the process easier.

Do You really SAVE money by installing a smart thermostat? Our  research, along with the EPA’s Energy Star program, reveals that homeowners that install programmable or smart thermostats can save up to $180 per year on heating and cooling, which is considerable and pays for itself quickly.

Now. Back to Thermostat choices. AirVantage Cooling & Heating Services in League City TX services all brands and models of air conditioners but, when it comes to new AC equipment choices, we are a certified American Standard dealer.

American Standard thermostats are compatible with most popular AC brands and models. Depending on your current ac system installation, AirVantage offers the following choices:

Silver 303 Control Highlights

• Simple to use programmable touchscreen thermostat
• Large, backlit display is easy to read even in low light
• Program 7 day or 5-1-1 schedule for seven different days
• Programmable fan
• Automatically reminds you when it’s time to change the filter, replace a humidifier pad and UV lamp.
• Displays outdoor temperature, indoor temperature and humidity
• Controls a whole house humidifier
• Manages energy recovery (early start)

 

Silver 724 Control Highlights

• Remotely control your home’s temperature with Nexia Remote Climate Access*
• Lets you program to fit your schedule seven days a week.
• Digital touch screen display is simple to use.
• Automatically switches between heating and cooling to maintain comfortable temperature year-round.

AccuLink Platinum 850 Control Highlights

• Built-in Nexia Bridge
• 4.3″ color touchscreen
• Indoor relative humidity display
• One touch installation set up with six preset configurations
• Upgradable software
• 5-day weather forecast & weather radar**
• Compatible with AccuLink Communicating and Variable Speed systems
• Filter, humidifier pad and UV lamp maintenance reminders