Any house that has a heating and cooling system needs a thermostat. Apart from temperature optimization, thermostats are also a great way to manage your home’s energy consumption. In today’s article, Birdwell Heating and Cooling Inc. highlights the features of different types of thermostats .
There are two basic types of thermostats: line-voltage and low-voltage.
Line-Voltage Thermostats
Line-voltage thermostats are typically used in single heating systems such as radiator systems and baseboard heaters, usually at 240V. This setup allows electric current to flow from the thermostat itself and into the heater. Line-voltage variants commonly encounter one issue. The thermostat unit may reach the set room temperature before the entire room does, prompting the thermostat to shut off before the preferred temperature is achieved.
Low-Voltage Thermostats
Low-voltage thermostats excel in controlling the air current. They are used primarily in water heating systems, as well as in electricity, gas, or oil-powered HVAC systems. Low-voltage variants can be operated using 24V to 50V, a far cry from the 240V used for its line-voltage counterparts. Most homes use low-voltage thermostats.
It’s best to call your heating repair company if you encounter problems like frequent system shutdown and inadequately cooled or heated air.
Wall Device Options
After determining the thermostat operation that will work best with your home’s heating and cooling system, you can now choose a wall device. You can pick from a variety of thermostats such as programmable, mechanical, and electronic thermostats. Programmable thermostats feature temperature adjustment according to your preset preferences. You can even program the temperature depending on the days and times of the week.
Mechanical thermostats, on the other hand, are perhaps the most affordable. You can even install them yourself. However, take note that they can be unreliable as they only use bimetallic strips to detect variations in temperature. You won’t encounter the same issue with electronic thermostats. They are better equipped to detect variations in temperature. On top of that, electronic thermostats can be used for either line or low-voltages.
Turn to Birdwell Heating and Cooling Inc. for all your thermostat needs. We also offer AC repair services. You may call us at (256) 229-3009. We serve Athens, AL.
