When we moved into our new home, it required a lot of updates.
- The windows were single pane and leaked a tremendous amount of air.
Many were painted shut. The exterior doors failed to close properly and weren’t overly secure. There was no insulation in the walls and the electrical system and panel failed to meet code. We needed to replace the water heater, refrigerator, oven and majority of plumbing and lighting fixtures. My husband and I spent a small fortune to modernize the home. One of the least expensive yet most beneficial improvements was the new thermostat. The original thermostat allowed us to adjust the temperature by manually turning a dial on the wall. The new smart thermostat can be adjusted through a touchscreen display as well as via an app on our smartphones. Along with controlling heating and cooling remotely, the new device accounts for what temperature we prefer, what areas of the house we tend to occupy and the time of day. Along with a high level of customization, the smart thermostat has learned our typical habits and preferences. It automatically adjusts according to whether the house is empty or occupied. Plus, the thermostat provides all sorts of really convenient, cost-saving and helpful features. It offers information about our energy usage patterns and includes tips on how to better conserve energy. It sends text message reminders when it’s time to schedule professional maintenance or replace air filters. If there’s a sudden temperature fluctuation or power outage, we receive a notification. We’ve also been able to incorporate the adjustment of the humidifier into the thermostat for added benefits.