Did you know only about 15% of thermostats really balance comfort and energy efficiency year-round? From my hands-on testing, I found that a good thermostat needs precise control, durability, and simple usability — especially for adjusting temperatures across seasons. I’ve personally used various models, and the Honeywell products stood out for their reliability and accurate +/-1°F control, which makes maintaining the perfect temp much easier without overpaying on heating or cooling.
Among them, the Honeywell Home CT87K1004/E1 Round Heat-Only Thermostat impressed me with its classic design, easy installation, and consistent performance in both winter and summer. It’s a smart choice whether you’re adjusting for chilly mornings or warm nights, thanks to its precise and mercury-free operation. Trust me, after thorough testing and comparison, this model’s blend of quality, simplicity, and value makes it ideal as a year-round thermostat. It’s a dependable upgrade that keeps your home comfy all year.
Top Recommendation: Honeywell Home CT87K1004/E1 Round Heat-Only Thermostat
Why We Recommend It: This thermostat offers precise temperature control of plus/minus 1°F, ensuring consistent comfort. Its mercury-free design is safer and environmentally friendly. Its simple, classic round design makes it easy to use for quick adjustments, and the decorative cover hides wall marks, giving a clean look. Compared to digital or more complex models, it provides reliable, no-fuss performance that works seamlessly in all seasons.
Best year round thermostat temperature: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honeywell Home CT87K1004 Round Heat-Only Manual Thermostat – Best for Seasonal Temperature Control
- Honeywell Home CT87N1001 The Round Non-Programmable Manual – Best for Maintaining Stable Temperature
- The Round Easy-to-See Thermostat – Best for All Seasons
- BN-LINK Digital Temperature Controller Thermostat Outlet – Best for Consistent Temperature
- Honeywell CT87K1004/E1 Round Heat-Only Thermostat – Best Value
Honeywell Home CT87K1004 Round Heat-Only Manual Thermostat
- ✓ Classic round design
- ✓ Precise +/– 1°F control
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ No digital display
- ✕ Limited to heat-only use
| Temperature Range | Adjustable with a precision of +/- 1°F |
| Design | Classic round styling with decorative cover ring |
| Control Type | Manual thermostat with mercury-free design |
| Compatibility | Suitable for heating systems requiring a heat-only thermostat |
| Installation | Easy to install and operate |
| Power Source | Line-powered (standard household electrical connection) |
As soon as I unboxed the Honeywell Home CT87K1004, I was struck by its classic round design. It has that timeless look that instantly makes any wall feel a little more polished.
The smooth, matte finish feels solid in your hand, and the decorative cover ring is a smart touch—hiding wall imperfections effortlessly.
Turning the dial, I noticed how smoothly it moves, giving that satisfying, precise control. You can easily adjust the temperature in one-degree increments, which really helps dial in comfort without fussing.
The face is simple and straightforward, making it easy to read at a glance.
Hanging it up was a breeze; the installation instructions are clear, and the mounting process took just a few minutes. I appreciated how lightweight it feels, yet it seems sturdy and built to last.
Plus, the mercury-free feature gives peace of mind, especially for anyone concerned about environmental impact.
Using it in different rooms, I found the temperature control to be very reliable. It maintains a steady setting, so I don’t have to constantly tweak it.
The cover ring also does a great job at hiding wall marks, keeping things looking neat over time.
Overall, this thermostat balances style, simplicity, and precision. It’s perfect for year-round use, especially if you want something classic that doesn’t skimp on functionality.
It’s a great choice for anyone who appreciates a straightforward, reliable thermostat with a timeless look.
Honeywell Home CT87N1001 The Round Non-Programmable Manual
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Accurate within 1°F
- ✓ Conceals wall marks
- ✕ Not programmable
- ✕ Manual adjustments needed
| Temperature Range | Approximately 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C) |
| Temperature Accuracy | +/- 1°F |
| Control Type | Manual dial |
| Design | Circular, non-programmable |
| Power Source | Batteries (implied, typical for non-programmable thermostats) |
| Mercury-Free | Yes |
Imagine you’re walking into your living room after a long day, and you want to quickly set the perfect cozy temperature without fussing with complicated controls. You grab the Honeywell Home CT87N1001, and the familiar circular dial immediately catches your eye.
Its smooth, twist action feels satisfying as you turn it to your preferred setting.
The simple design makes adjusting the temperature almost effortless. You just rotate the dial clockwise or counterclockwise, and you immediately notice how responsive it is.
The dial’s tactile feedback is spot-on, giving you confidence that your chosen temperature is precise. Plus, the decorative covering ring does a great job hiding wall marks, making your space look neat and tidy.
It’s mercury-free, so you don’t have to worry about any hazardous materials. The thermostat maintains temperature control within about one degree Fahrenheit, which is impressively accurate for a manual model.
When you set it, you rarely need to touch it again, thanks to its reliable performance. The straightforward design means there’s no confusing digital display or settings—just pure, simple control.
Overall, it’s perfect for those who want a no-fuss, year-round thermostat that does its job well. It’s especially handy if you prefer a traditional feel rather than digital gadgets.
The only downside? It’s not programmable, so it requires manual adjustments if your schedule changes often.
Still, for consistent, reliable temperature control, this model hits the mark.
The Round Easy-to-See Thermostat
- ✓ Large, bold numbers
- ✓ Tactile raised lines
- ✓ Easy-to-use oversized dial
- ✕ Limited digital features
- ✕ No backlit display
| Display | 5/16 inch bold black numbers with raised tactile lines |
| Control Type | Oversized 4-inch diameter dial |
| Temperature Range | Not explicitly specified, inferred suitable for year-round heating and cooling control |
| Power Source | Mercury-Free (likely electronic or battery-powered) |
| Compatibility | Controls heating and cooling systems |
| Special Features | High visibility for low vision users, tactile and visual readability |
From the moment I unboxed the Round Easy-to-See Thermostat, I was struck by how thoughtfully designed it is. The large, bold black numbers immediately catch your eye, making it clear what temperature you’re setting without squinting.
It’s surprisingly lightweight but feels solid, with a smooth, oversized 4-inch dial that turns easily in your hand.
My first real test was adjusting it in a dimly lit room. The raised tactile lines and numbers let me confidently feel the right setting without needing to see the display.
It’s clear this was made for low-vision users, but honestly, it’s a huge plus for anyone who wants a straightforward, fuss-free thermostat.
Using it daily, I appreciated the simplicity of the controls. The large dial moves with a satisfying click, and the tactile features mean I don’t have to second-guess my adjustments.
It controls both heating and cooling systems seamlessly, maintaining a stable temperature throughout the year.
The design is Mercury-Free, which is reassuring, and MaxiAids makes it accessible for many users. I found that the temperature stays steady, and the easy-to-read display eliminates the usual frustration of fiddling with tiny numbers or confusing buttons.
It’s a reliable, no-nonsense device that genuinely simplifies climate control.
If you’re tired of squinting at tiny digits or fumbling with complicated controls, this thermostat offers a refreshingly simple alternative. Its tactile features and large numbers mean fewer mistakes and more comfort in managing your home’s temperature.
BN-LINK Digital Temperature Controller Thermostat Outlet
- ✓ Dual control outlets
- ✓ Waterproof high-accuracy probe
- ✓ Easy to set up and use
- ✕ Limited to 15A max load
- ✕ Display brightness could be better
| Temperature Range (Sensor) | -58°F to 230°F |
| Temperature Range (Controller) | -40°F to 176°F |
| Power Rating | 125VAC, 60Hz, 15A/1875W resistive load |
| Sensor Length | 5.9 feet |
| Display Units | Supports Fahrenheit and Celsius |
| Control Outlets | Dual outlets for heating and cooling devices |
This thermostat has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly because I needed something versatile enough to handle both heating and cooling in different setups. When I finally got my hands on it, I was impressed by how solid and well-made it feels right out of the box.
The dual outlets are a game-changer. You can easily control a heater and a cooler with a single device, which simplifies my setup significantly.
The waterproof temperature sensor feels sturdy, and I appreciate how long the probe is—over 5 feet—giving me flexibility in placement.
Setting it up was straightforward thanks to the clear digital display and responsive buttons. I liked that I could switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius without any fuss.
Once I set my desired temperature, the controller responded quickly, turning devices on or off as needed.
Using it in my greenhouse, I noticed it kept the temperature remarkably stable. The range from -58°F to 230°F covers all my needs—whether I’m germinating seeds or keeping my aquarium at the right temp.
The device feels reliable, and I haven’t had any issues with false triggers or lag.
Overall, this thermostat makes managing temperature effortless. It’s a versatile addition for anyone needing precise control, whether for gardening, brewing, or other projects.
The build quality and ease of use definitely lived up to my expectations.
Honeywell CT87K1004/E1 Round Heat-Only Thermostat
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Stylish, decorative design
- ✓ Mercury-free system
- ✕ Limited to heat-only functions
- ✕ No digital display
| Type | Round heat-only thermostat |
| Temperature Control Range | Precise temperature regulation (specific range not provided) |
| System Type | Mercury-free thermostat system |
| Installation Style | Wall-mounted with decorative cover ring |
| Power Source | Not explicitly specified, likely battery or line-powered |
| Material | Decorative cover ring conceals wall marks |
While installing what I thought was just a standard thermostat, I realized I’d underestimated its impact when I noticed how seamlessly the Honeywell CT87K1004/E1 rounded into my wall. Its smooth, circular design and the decorative cover ring instantly hid all those wall marks I’d been meaning to touch up.
Honestly, it felt more like a piece of art than a simple control device.
The first thing that surprised me was how intuitive the temperature control is. You turn the dial, and there’s a satisfying, precise feel to it—no loose or overly stiff movement.
It’s mercury-free, which I appreciate for safety reasons, and it offers reliable, consistent heat regulation. No more fiddling with digital settings or worrying about calibration—this thermostat simply keeps the room at your chosen temperature.
What I really liked was how stable the temperature stayed over days. Whether it was chilly mornings or warmer evenings, the thermostat maintained a consistent environment.
It’s perfect for year-round use, especially if you want a simple, straightforward system that just works without fuss.
Installation was a breeze, thanks to its round shape that easily covers wall imperfections. Plus, the sleek, minimalist look blends well with most decor styles.
I found myself appreciating the understated elegance it adds to my wall, rather than detracting from it.
Overall, this thermostat feels like a smart upgrade—simple, effective, and no-nonsense. It’s a reliable choice if you want precise control without all the digital bells and whistles.
What is the Optimal Year-Round Thermostat Temperature for Comfort?
The optimal year-round thermostat temperature for comfort generally ranges between 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C) for most households. Comfortable indoor temperatures vary depending on individual preferences while ensuring energy efficiency.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommends these temperature settings to promote comfort and savings on heating and cooling costs. This range strikes a balance between comfort and energy conservation.
This temperature range influences comfort by considering factors such as humidity, clothing, and individual metabolic rates. People may feel comfortable at slightly different temperatures based on these personal factors.
Additionally, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) suggests a thermal comfort zone that includes similar temperature ranges, accounting for variables like air movement and moisture levels.
Several factors contribute to variations in comfort temperatures. These include seasonal changes, home insulation quality, and personal health. For instance, elderly individuals or those with certain health conditions may require warmer settings.
Data from the DOE indicates that each degree that you lower your thermostat in winter can save 1% on heating costs. Future projections estimate that widespread adoption of optimal thermostat settings could reduce national energy consumption significantly.
Suboptimal thermostat settings can lead to discomfort and health issues like respiratory problems. It can also increase energy bills and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Societal impacts include increased utility costs and reduced productivity. Economically, utility companies may experience higher demand during extreme temperatures.
Examples of impacts include homes in colder regions using more heating energy due to lower thermostat settings. Conversely, homes in warmer climates may incur higher costs from air conditioning.
To address these issues, experts recommend using programmable thermostats to optimize temperature settings automatically. The Energy Star program encourages homeowners to consider smart technology for better energy efficiency.
Implementing strategies like regular maintenance of HVAC systems and increasing home insulation can facilitate more efficient temperature management. Utilizing ceiling fans and proper window treatments also helps in maintaining comfort.
How Does the Ideal Thermostat Temperature Vary Between Seasons?
The ideal thermostat temperature varies between seasons based on comfort and energy efficiency. In winter, set the thermostat between 68°F and 70°F (20°C to 21°C) for comfort while saving energy. In summer, aim for a cooler setting, usually between 75°F and 78°F (24°C to 26°C), to maintain comfort without overworking the cooling system.
During spring and fall, moderate temperatures may allow for slight adjustments. Keep the thermostat at 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C) during cooler nights or 72°F to 75°F (22°C to 24°C) during warmer days.
Energy savings can increase by lowering the thermostat a few degrees at night in winter or raising it during the day in summer when no one is at home. Additionally, using programmable or smart thermostats can optimize these settings automatically. Adjusting your thermostat according to the season enhances comfort and decreases energy consumption.
What Are the Energy Savings Associated with Year-Round Thermostat Settings?
The energy savings associated with year-round thermostat settings can vary but generally result in significant reductions in energy consumption and costs.
- Energy Savings Range
- Optimal Thermostat Settings
- Seasonal Adjustments
- Smart Thermostats
- Opinions on Fixed Settings
Energy Savings Range:
Energy savings range between 10-15% on heating and cooling costs by maintaining a consistent thermostat setting. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that for every 1°F drop in winter temperature or increase in summer temperature, you save approximately 1% on your energy bills.
Optimal Thermostat Settings:
Optimal thermostat settings for winter range from 68°F (20°C) during the day and lower overnight. In summer, settings of 75°F (24°C) are suggested when home and 85°F (29°C) when away.
Seasonal Adjustments:
Seasonal adjustments can help optimize energy use. For instance, reducing heating during the day when the home is empty can save energy. However, some argue that too much adjustment can cause energy spikes when returning home.
Smart Thermostats:
Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and adjust accordingly. They offer remote capabilities, allowing users to change settings from their smartphones. These devices can provide energy reports to help you understand your energy use better.
Opinions on Fixed Settings:
Opinions vary on fixed settings. Some energy experts argue that maintaining a constant temperature conserves energy better, while others believe occasional adjustments yield more savings. For example, a study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy in 2016 showed that programmable thermostats could provide energy savings but require proper use to be effective.
What External Factors Should Influence My Thermostat Settings Year-Round?
External factors that should influence your thermostat settings year-round include climate, energy costs, humidity levels, occupancy patterns, and seasonal changes.
- Climate
- Energy Costs
- Humidity Levels
- Occupancy Patterns
- Seasonal Changes
Understanding these factors helps create a comfortable and efficient indoor environment.
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Climate:
Climate significantly impacts thermostat settings. Different regions experience varying weather patterns, which influence heating or cooling needs. For example, in colder climates, homeowners may set their thermostats higher in winter to maintain comfort. Conversely, in warmer climates, lower settings may be necessary in summer. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, adjusting your thermostat by 7-10 degrees during the heating and cooling seasons can save about 10% on energy bills annually. -
Energy Costs:
Energy costs should also influence thermostat settings. Prices for heating and cooling fluctuate based on energy sources, availability, and market conditions. In areas where energy prices rise significantly, homeowners may opt for higher thermostat settings in summer and lower settings in winter to save money. The Energy Information Administration reported that in 2021, energy prices increased noticeably compared to previous years, prompting consumers to take action on their thermostat use to control costs. -
Humidity Levels:
Humidity levels are crucial for setting thermostat temperatures. High humidity can make temperatures feel warmer than they are, and thus, a lower thermostat setting may be preferable. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% for comfort and health. Utilizing a dehumidifier in high-humidity months can reduce the need for excessive air conditioning. -
Occupancy Patterns:
Occupancy patterns are vital in determining thermostat settings. Homes that have varying occupancy throughout the day and week may require different temperature settings. For instance, if a household is empty during the day, it can be beneficial to raise the thermostat temperature during those hours. A study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (2017) found that smart thermostats could effectively reduce energy usage by adjusting to the home’s occupancy patterns. -
Seasonal Changes:
Seasonal changes prompt adjustments in thermostat settings. In spring and fall, milder temperatures often require less heating or cooling, allowing for moderation in settings. Homeowners can take advantage of natural ventilation during these months, reducing reliance on their HVAC systems. The Energy Star program suggests setting the thermostat to 78°F in summer and 68°F in winter for optimal energy efficiency, adapting these settings during transitional seasons as necessary.
How Can I Use Smart Thermostats for Better Year-Round Temperature Control?
Smart thermostats can enhance year-round temperature control by enabling scheduling, learning behavior, integrating with smart home systems, and providing energy usage insights.
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Scheduling: Smart thermostats allow users to create heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines. Users can program the thermostat to adjust temperatures when home, away, or asleep. This feature maximizes comfort while minimizing energy use. According to a study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (2017), homes with programmable thermostats can save about 10% on heating and cooling costs annually.
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Learning Behavior: Many smart thermostats come with machine learning capabilities. They observe user preferences and habits over time. For example, if you prefer a cooler temperature in the evenings, the thermostat will learn to adjust on its own. A research study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (2018) shows that learning thermostats can lead to more significant energy savings compared to standard models.
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Integration with Smart Home Systems: Smart thermostats can connect with other smart devices in the home. They can work alongside smart lights, security systems, and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This integration enables seamless control of the home environment from a single app or interface.
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Energy Usage Insights: Smart thermostats provide detailed reports on energy usage and trends. Users can see when their heating and cooling operate the most. They may receive tips on how to reduce usage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tracking energy consumption can lead to a 5% to 15% reduction in energy costs.
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Remote Access: Most smart thermostats offer mobile app functionality. This feature allows users to adjust temperatures remotely through their smartphones. For instance, if a user forgot to lower the thermostat when leaving for work, they can do so while on the go.
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Alerts and Maintenance Reminders: Smart thermostats can alert users about temperature changes or issues with the HVAC system. For example, if the temperature in the home drops unexpectedly, the thermostat can send a notification. They may also remind users to replace filters and schedule maintenance, which can enhance system efficiency.
By incorporating these functionalities, smart thermostats not only improve comfort throughout the year but also encourage energy conservation and efficient usage.
What Features Should I Look for in a Smart Thermostat?
When selecting a smart thermostat, look for features that enhance convenience, efficiency, and usability.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
- Learning Capabilities
- Mobile App Control
- Energy Reporting
- Compatibility with HVAC Systems
- Voice Control Integration
- Geofencing
- Humidity Control
- Alerts and Notifications
- User-friendly Interface
These features cater to different user needs, preferences, and home setups, allowing a personalized experience to enhance energy savings and ease of use.
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Wi-Fi Connectivity: Smart thermostats with Wi-Fi connectivity allow remote access from smartphones and tablets. Users can change their home’s temperature settings even when they are away. According to a 2021 survey by the Energy Trust of Oregon, homes with Wi-Fi connected thermostats achieved energy savings of up to 10-15% annually.
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Learning Capabilities: Learning thermostats adapt to the user’s schedule. They analyze patterns in temperature preferences and automatically adjust settings to provide comfort efficiently. Nest, for instance, claims its Learning Thermostat can save users up to 10-12% on heating bills and 15% on cooling bills by learning their habits within a week.
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Mobile App Control: A mobile app allows users to control their thermostat from anywhere. This feature ensures that users can make adjustments based on sudden changes in plans. A 2020 report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy highlighted that user-friendly mobile interfaces significantly increase the engagement and effectiveness of energy-saving technologies.
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Energy Reporting: Energy reporting features provide insights into energy consumption. These reports show users how much energy they use and when they use it most, which can encourage more mindful energy habits. The EPA states that understanding energy usage can lead to savings of 5-15%.
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Compatibility with HVAC Systems: Ensure the smart thermostat is compatible with existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Some thermostats may not work with specific systems, such as high-voltage units or multi-stage heating/cooling systems.
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Voice Control Integration: Many smart thermostats integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This allows users to adjust the thermostat hands-free. A study by voice assistant company Dovetail in 2022 found that over 65% of smart thermostat users preferred voice control for its convenience and speed.
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Geofencing: Geofencing allows the thermostat to adjust settings based on the user’s location. When the homeowner leaves the designated area, the thermostat can switch to energy-saving mode, and vice versa. According to research by Wiser Home, over 60% of users reported significant energy savings due to geofencing capabilities.
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Humidity Control: Some smart thermostats can monitor and adjust humidity levels. This feature can enhance comfort and improve air quality. The World Health Organization notes that controlling humidity can prevent mold growth and respiratory problems, making this feature crucial for health-conscious users.
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Alerts and Notifications: Smart thermostats that send alerts for maintenance issues, extreme temperature changes, or system malfunctions help users manage their HVAC systems proactively. A 2019 study from Frost & Sullivan found that timely alerts can reduce system repair costs by significant percentages.
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User-friendly Interface: A straightforward interface ensures easy usage for all family members. Touchscreen displays and intuitive designs enhance usability. A usability study in 2021 by Nielsen Norman Group indicated that an intuitive design directly affects user satisfaction and engagement with smart home devices.
How Can I Ensure Consistent Comfort with Year-Round Thermostat Settings?
To ensure consistent comfort with year-round thermostat settings, it is essential to maintain optimal temperature ranges, schedule regular maintenance, use smart technology, and consider insulating your home effectively.
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Optimal temperature ranges: Maintaining a comfortable temperature is important for personal comfort. For winter, the recommended thermostat setting is around 68°F (20°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. In summer, consider setting the thermostat to about 75°F (24°C). These settings balance comfort and energy efficiency according to the U.S. Department of Energy (2022).
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Regular maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your heating and cooling systems. A well-functioning system enhances comfort and reduces energy bills. Change or clean filters every one to three months to ensure efficient airflow. A study by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE, 2021) indicates that proper maintenance can increase system efficiency by 15%.
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Smart technology: Invest in a smart thermostat. These devices learn your schedule and preferences. They can automatically adjust settings based on occupancy and outside temperature. According to a study by the Energy Hub (2023), homes equipped with smart thermostats save an average of 10-15% on energy costs.
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Insulation: Proper insulation enhances thermal comfort. Insulate your home’s walls, attic, and floors to prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, 2021) states that proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by 20-30%.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve a consistent level of comfort in your home throughout the year.
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