There are so many components to your AC that it’s hard to keep up with it all. The thermostat is one of the most important parts of your HVAC, and understanding how it works is the first step in being aware of your AC’s efficiency.
What does the thermostat do?
The thermostat in an HVAC observes the temperature of your home in order to effectively cool or heat, depending on your needs and comfort. There are many different types of thermostats you can have in your home – from smart thermostats to non-digital thermostats, electrical and mechanical.
Components
Every thermostat has sensors to determine the temperature of the room. A traditional thermostat has a bimetallic strip, which works as an electrical circuit that connects to your system.
In colder weather, the strip will heat up along with the room. The metal expands and bends – eventually heating up the circuit. The opposite goes for cooling. The metal shrinks and bends back into shape. This is what happens when you change the dial. Since it takes some time to heat or cool the metal, your temperature is not changing instantly.
A slow reaction to temperature change is a common complaint from those with a bimetallic feature in their thermostat. The alternative to the bimetallic strip is a gas-filled bellow, which works to change temperature quicker than a bimetallic strip. Its metal discs, which sit further apart, use gas to expand and contract the discs faster – therefore a speedier temperature shift.
Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat is the best way to control the temperature in your home. This thermostat will use less energy by scheduling what temperature you want a room depending on your schedule. It also helps by more efficiently assessing what temperature is suitable due to the outdoor conditions. Most smart thermostats can even be controlled from an app, allowing you to have full awareness and agency over the temperature in your home – whether you are in it or not. Upgrading will save you money in the long run and keep your home at a comfortable temperature while saving more energy over time.
If you are looking to replace your thermostat or have your HVAC inspected, call Champion AC today to speak with a professional to point you in the right direction.
Ben Hubbert
Ben is a retired Combat Controller with the United States Air Force. He started Champion AC in 2007. Ben is originally from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. He is happily married and an avid fan of the San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Saints.
