Programmable Models
Programmable Models | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Kingston
Transform the way you stay comfortable in Kingston with HEP’s programmable models for heating and air conditioning. Our precision-engineered thermostats learn your schedule, adjust temperatures automatically, and connect seamlessly to your smartphone—so you enjoy perfect indoor climates without wasting energy or money. From historic downtown homes to new waterfront builds, HEP’s technicians install, calibrate, and demonstrate every feature, making sure you’re in full control from day one.
These thermostat upgrades empower you to track real-time energy use, set vacation modes with a tap, and receive system alerts before small issues turn into costly repairs. Ready to experience a greener, smarter home? Call HEP today and discover why Kingston homeowners trust us to keep comfort at their fingertips all year long.
FAQs
What is a programmable thermostat and how does it work with my existing heating or cooling system?
A programmable thermostat is a wall-mounted control that lets you pre-set temperature changes for different times of day or week. Instead of manually adjusting the dial, you create a schedule—for example, 21 °C from 6–8 a.m., 18 °C while you’re at work, and 20 °C before bedtime. The thermostat sends low-voltage (24-V) signals to your furnace, boiler, heat pump, or air conditioner just like your old unit, so it works with most forced-air and hydronic systems found in Kingston homes. When properly installed and set, it can reduce run-time and keep the indoor climate consistent without constant tweaking.
How much money can I really save by upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat?
Natural Resources Canada studies show homeowners can cut heating and cooling costs by 8 %–15 % when they use a programmable thermostat correctly—more if you combine it with smart features such as occupancy sensors or geofencing. In Kingston’s climate, heating is the largest energy expense, so even a 1-degree setback for eight hours each night can trim bills by about 2 %. Many users recoup the purchase price within the first 18–24 months, and Wi-Fi models that auto-adjust when you leave can improve savings further because they eliminate human error.
Are smart thermostats compatible with older furnaces or air conditioners?
Most modern smart or programmable thermostats are designed for 24-volt systems, which covers the majority of furnaces and split A/C units installed in Kingston over the past 30 years. If your equipment has two to five low-voltage wires behind the existing stat, it will likely work. Homes with very old two-wire boilers or millivolt systems may need an adapter or a specialized model. The biggest requirement is a continuous 24-V common ("C") wire to power the new screen and Wi-Fi radio. During our free in-home assessment we test for voltage, stage count, and extra wires; if a C-wire is missing, we can often add one or install a power-extender kit so you can still enjoy smart features.
What features should I look for when choosing a new thermostat?
Key features include: • 7-day scheduling or learning algorithms to adapt automatically. • Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for remote control via phone, tablet, or voice assistant (Alexa, Google Home, Siri). • Geofencing to adjust temperatures based on your smartphone’s location. • Humidity control or dual-fuel heat pump support if your HVAC equipment requires it. • Energy-use reports that show runtime and savings opportunities. • Large backlit touchscreen and on-screen instructions—handy if multiple family members will be using it. Our technicians can match these features to your existing equipment and your goals, whether you prioritize maximum savings, simplicity, or smart-home integration.
What does professional installation involve and how long does it take?
A typical retrofit takes 45–90 minutes. We begin by shutting off HVAC power, labeling and photographing the old wiring, and safely removing the existing thermostat. After confirming voltage and wire condition, we mount the new baseplate, connect the labeled wires, and install a level cover to ensure accurate temperature readings. We then power up the system, walk through on-screen setup (fuel type, number of stages, fan control, Wi-Fi connection), and test both heating and cooling modes. Finally, we help you download the mobile app and create an initial schedule so you’re comfortable using all the features before we leave.
Are there rebates or incentives in Kingston for thermostat upgrades?
Yes. Through Ontario’s Save on Energy program, qualifying ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostats currently receive a $75 instant rebate when purchased from participating retailers or through a local HVAC contractor like us. In addition, Utilities Kingston occasionally offers bill credits for devices that can participate in demand-response events. We handle all paperwork and proof-of-purchase submissions for you, so your rebate is applied immediately—no waiting for a cheque.