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Home is Where the Smart Is. Part 2: Heating, Air Conditioning and Home Comfort



We live in a connected world, and it’s making life easier, safer, and more efficient in a lot of ways. In our series on “smart” homes we’ll talk about the many ways connectivity can work for you.

Today, we look at heating and cooling features that add convenience while keeping your home cozy and efficient year-round.

Temperature Control

Programmable thermostats have saved countless BTUs and kilowatts since their introduction over thirty years ago, but new Wi-Fi technologies have taken energy-saving and comfort to a new level.

We’re already in a third generation and there’s more to come. The Nest line of thermostats led the way, but nearly all major manufacturers like Honeywell, GE, and Emerson have devices now along with innovative startups that are in the market, too.

With some thermostats, you don’t even have to program them. Just adjust the temperature to a comfortable level on the digital thermostat; it remembers the setting and when you set it. After a few days, it learns your heating and cooling patterns and takes it from there.

They Know When You Come and Go

Some even go further, using a smart phone app with GPS to know when you’re home or away and adjusts temperatures accordingly. Coming home early on a cold winter night? Some systems use a GPS technique called geofencing to adjust the thermostat so you won’t come home to a frigid (or sweltering) house. They will also alert you on your smart phone if your home gets too hot or cold, a nice feature to have if you’re away for extended periods.

Single Room Comfort

If you have cold or hot spots, companies like LG, Frigidaire, and GE have room heaters, air conditioners, and humidifiers that are W-Fi enabled.

They Play Well With Others

Most smart thermostats will integrate with other smart systems like security and lighting for complete home automation. And if you use voice controls like Amazon Echo or Google Home, many will operate over your Wi-Fi network or via Bluetooth. Plus, systems like Nest even track your energy usage and offer suggestions for increased efficiency.

Water Management

Rheem offers a full line of tank and tankless water heaters that are Wi-Fi enabled. Models are available for electric, gas, or propane hookups, and some integrate with Nest to know when to operate. And there are smart irrigation systems that know when your lawn needs watering on their own.

Confused? Give Allstar a Call

Whether it’s home automation, adding extra power, or electrical repairs, the pros at Allstar Electrical Services are just a phone call away. We’ve been serving homeowners and businesses along Colorado’s Front Range since 2000 and are top-rated by the BBB and Angie’s List.

Whatever your electrical needs may be, call Allstar Electrical at (303) 399-7420 or visit our website. Then use our handy on-line forms to request an estimate or set up an appointment.

Allstar also offers 24/7 radio-dispatched emergency service throughout our Front Range service area.

Next Up: Smart Lighting Solutions