360 Comfort Solutions

2. Programmable vs Non-Programmable:  You have a choice to purchase a very simple non-programmable thermostat, or for the more technology versed of us, you may want to program a set schedule to raise and lower the temperature to suite your needs and purchase a programmable thermostat. Some thermostats allow you a choice to set up the thermostat to become either a non-programmable or a programmable. Keeping it simple and in league with your level of technology comfort is the best rule to follow.
 

3. Wifi or not:  As this feature goes beyond our keep it simple rule, there are those of us who really love technology. If you really desire to control your thermostat from your phone or your work computer while you are away, or even a few feet away, you will want to consider several different thermostats and find one to fit your comfort level and price. It is important to understand if you have a variable speed air handler that can act as an enhancement for de-humidification. If so, you will want to make sure that the wifi thermostat you purchase has a DEHUM input on the subase for proper wiring for this feature. The same goes with a humidifier. If you want to control your humidifier from your thermostat, make sure the Thermostat has a HUM input on the subase for proper wiring.

 

It is highly recommended for us to assist you in the purchase of your thermostat to assure you have the proper model to install and to assure that it is wired and set up properly.
 

4. Special Features: There are many models of thermostat that are very specific to certain applications. It is very important that the right thermostat is chosen. We recommend a consultation, should you desire to purchase one on your own. You may be surprised at the confusion that can be generated trying to install one of these thermostats on your own, even for the tech savvy "do it yourselfers." So we first have to choose the proper model that we feel we are comfortable with. Then we have to wire it properly, then there is the internal set up. This part can also be challenging. You don't want to be that individual who has spend all afternoon trying to wire a new thermostat and has shorted out the transformer. It may be easier to have us take care of the matter, and look your system over at the same time to assure all is good.
 

• Does the thermostat match your system? Here are a few options that you need to know to assure compatibility for Heat Pumps. Although some electronic thermostats offer many of these settings, there are some that may lack features you need to maximize the efficiency of your system. You will need to know that your thermostat matches your system. Here are just a few of the many types:

  • Heat Pump with single stage backup electric heat (W2)

  • Heat Pump with two stage back up electric heat (W2-W3)

  • Heat Pump with  with single stage back up electric heat (W2) with DEHUM feature for Variable Speed blowers

  • Heat Pump with two stage back up electric heat (W2-W3) with DEHUM feature for Variable Speed blowers

  • Heat Pump with 2 stage compressor with single stage backup electric heat

  • Heat Pump with 2 stage compressor with single stage back up electric heat with DEHUM feature for Variable Speed blower

  • Heat Pump with 2 stage compressor with 2-stage back up electric heat

  • Heat Pump with 2 stage compressor with 2-stage back up electric heat with DEHUM feature for Variable Speed blower

  • Variable Speed Heat Pump Compressor with single stage back up electric heat with DEHUM

  • ADD a Humidifier HUM input to any of the above if you want to control your humidifier from your thermostat.

 

• The above would also apply for gas furnaces with Air Conditioners, Package Units of all types, etc. So you see there can be a lot going on.

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• To control Variable Speed Air Handlers, the thermostat must sense humidity within the body of the thermostat and have a DEHUM input.
   

• To control Humidifiers, the thermostat must sense humidity with the body of the thermostat and have a HUM input.

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• Most all thermostats that have any special features will be powered by 24 volts. Thermostats that operate on batteries are not recommended.
   

• Wireless thermostats are available with most features you will need. Lots of options are available, however we recommend to keep it simple and do what it takes to use a wired model.
   

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1. Inaccurate readings: If you have an older mercury bulb thermostat, the level of your thermostat must be accurate for proper operation. If a digital thermostat has inaccuracies that seem to come and go, there might be a draft behind where the thermostat is mounted that can trigger false readings. Some other things to consider are sources of heat or cool such as a duct vent that might be blowing on the thermostat. If none of these solve the problem, some digital thermostats come with an offset that can compensate for inaccurate readings, otherwise we recommend a new thermostat.
    

2. Improper Thermostat or Improper Set up: Make sure to let your technician know if you are experiencing issues with your comfort associated with your thermostat. If something does not seem right, it probably is a sign of a controls issue, a wiring problem, or a misapplication.
    

3. Improper Location: The right location for your thermostat is key. Drafts from opening and closings from exterior doors, drafts from duct vents, and many other factors may be causing less than perfect operational control of your comfort system.
    

4. Confusion with Technology: This is a common complaint. You may desire that your thermostat operates as simple as possible. If a programmable thermostat is on the wall and you do not know how to use it, and are constantly pushing the HOLD feature, you will want to install a simpler thermostat. You will be very happy with the thermostat shown below.
    

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