Traditional heating systems have thermostats and timers for temperature regulation, making them generally satisfactory. However, those who’ve made the jump to smart heating systems know that they cannot go back—smart heating systems adapt to your daily habits, regulate temperature more effectively, offer higher energy efficiency, and automatically reduce bills.
If you’re new to smart heating appliances, don’t worry. You don’t have to be energy-smart HVAC experts to make the most of these systems. In this guide, we’ll discuss some best practices you can follow.
Leveraging the Timers
Smart heating systems typically have temperature settings you can customize based on your routine at different times of the day. For instance, you can set timers for the system to switch off when you leave home for work and automatically switch on when you’re on your way back, thereby avoiding unnecessary energy usage.
Strategizing for Zonal Heating
If you live in a house with multiple floors or rooms, zoning systems for your thermostat are a must. In short, zoning, or zonal heating, refers to dividing your home into separate areas, each with its own distinct temperature settings, maximizing energy efficiency. For instance, you can keep temperatures low in the bedrooms but higher in the living room to keep it warm during the day.
This zoning approach reduces energy waste by only heating areas that are in use. Zoning is designed to complement smart heating systems, allowing you to set individual timers and control each area remotely, keeping only the necessary zones warm. However, zoning only works well when multiple thermostats are used if you don’t have a smart thermostat that can set different temperatures for different zones.
Integration with Other Smart Systems
Smart thermostats and other energy-saving systems unlock their full potential when working in tandem with other smart appliances. For instance, you can install motion sensors in your rooms, which can detect movement and adjust temperatures through the heating system accordingly.
Similarly, you can use Amazon Alexa and other voice assistants to control your heating system through voice commands. You can also connect the heating system to your smart home hub to create automated routines, such as lowering the temperature when everyone leaves the space. Integration with other smart appliances makes your life a lot easier, and these small adjustments can add up to significant savings on electricity bills.
Adding Window or Door Sensors
If you have a smart heating system and can integrate it with other smart appliances, you must install window/door sensors. These enable the heating system to better manage room temperature by adjusting to the opening or closing of doors or windows. We often leave rooms without closing doors or windows, and the sensors can help the system adjust the temperature as needed. This ensures further energy saving, keeping the area cozy and your home heating efficient.
Using Its Dedicated App
Most energy-smart heating systems come with a dedicated mobile app to monitor and control them remotely. Ensure that you download the app, connect it to your heating system, and learn how to use it. Even when you’re not at home, you can control heating systems to avoid unnecessary energy consumption, or, more importantly, preheat your rooms before you arrive.
Keeping a Watch of Your Energy Statistics
Whether it’s through a mobile or PC app, your smart heating system will provide routine reports on energy usage—daily, weekly, or monthly. Most people forget to check these and simply review their electricity bills. However, to truly optimize your energy usage, it’s essential to monitor the app reports. Based on the data, you can identify consumption patterns, pinpoint areas of waste, and adopt a more energy-efficient approach to lower your electricity bills.
Final Thoughts
Smart heating systems aren’t just for adding convenience to your home—they’re designed to prioritize energy usage and aim for a more efficient lifestyle that avoids unnecessary consumption. By following best practices, such as monitoring energy statistics, using mobile apps, and adopting a zonal heating strategy, you can get more out of your heating system. You can become a smart user who enjoys warm rooms and reduced electricity bills simultaneously!
Tommy Hardy, an alumnus of the Georgia Institute of Technology with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, has been a go-to figure in residential upkeep and innovation for over 18 years. His career commenced in a leading home appliance manufacturing company, where he mastered the intricacies of household systems. Joining our platform in 2020, Tommy quickly became a reader favorite for his practical and easy-to-follow guides. He took the helm of our DIY section in 2019, consistently delivering content that empowers homeowners. Beyond his professional pursuits, Tommy is a passionate gardener and enjoys woodworking, skills enhancing his hands-on approach to home care.
