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Upgrading to a new thermostat when installing a new air conditioning system in your Ontario home isn't just an optional add-on, it can actually make a big difference in how your new system performances, how much your cooling costs will be, and how comfortable you and your family are during the summer. 

In this guide, we'll explore why upgrading makes sense, the types of thermostat you can install, when you can keep your current thermostat, installation processes, and more. 

When installing a new cooling system in your Ontario home, choosing to upgrade to a new thermostat at the same time makes sense for several reasons:

Compatibility And System Performance

When it comes to your new AC system's performance levels, the "brain" behind optimization begins with the thermostat. It essentially tells your air conditioner when to turn on and off, and how to operate. Choosing a thermostat that matches your new air conditioner will help improve communication and system cycling.

For example, single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed air conditioners have different functional and control needs for efficient cooling. This directly affects the type of thermostat and electrical components required. By installing a compatible thermostat, you can prevent short cycling, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear and reduced indoor comfort. 

Energy Efficiency And Savings

Upgrading your thermostat along with your air conditioning appliance also influences your energy costs and savings. ENERGY-STAR certified smart thermostats, for example, are designed to adapt to your home's cooling routine, which in turn, minimizes unnecessary cooling. With improved temperature control and other features, a new thermostat can lower your monthly utility costs and your households carbon footprint, without compromising your comfort levels, which is an added win for the local environment.  

There are several types of thermostats available that homeowners in Ontario will want to consider. Here's a quick breakdown of each:

Basic Digital Thermostats

Basic digital thermostats, or manual thermostats, are the most affordable and straightforward models available on. They provide precise indoor temperature control and have clear temperature settings. These models are most suited for single-stage AC systems where advanced technology is not needed.

Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostat models allow you to set cooling schedules throughout the day. This can help you reduce your cooling costs when you're away during the day or at night when you're sleeping. These models are ideal for households who have predictable daily routines who want to save money on energy costs over time.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats are the most modern thermostats available. They connect to your home's Wi-Fi and allow you to adjust indoor temperature settings through your smartphone, schedule temperature changes automatically, track energy consumption levels, and most notably, learn your temperature preferences to optimize both comfort and savings. 

Some scenarios don't require a new thermostat, such as:

• Your recently upgraded your thermostat and it's compatible with your new HVAC system.

• All electrical wiring is correct for the new system and no changes need to be made to the system setup.

• A technician confirms that there are no performance limitations. 

Installing a new thermostat is a straightforward process when done by a licensed technician:

1. Remove the old thermostat: Carefully disconnect the old one from the wall.

2. Check electrical wiring: Verification that new AC system wiring and voltage is supported by new thermostat.

3. Connect to your new air conditioning system: Wires are connected to new terminals on your HVAC system.

4. Calibrate and conduct system testing: Calibration and thermostat testing to ensure it can communicate correctly with your new AC system.

5. Integrate with furnace or heat pump: Integrate new thermostat with furnace or heat pump controls for seamless operation all year long. 

The cost of a new thermostat depends on the model:

• Basic thermostat cost range: Between $20 and $50.

• Programmable thermostat cost range: $100 and $150.

• Smart thermostat cost range: $200 and $500.

• Professional installation fees: $100 and $200.

Here's a quick breakdown and comparison table between the different types of thermostats available: