About The Author: Travis Baugh is a Digital Brand Marketing Manager for Bryant, where he creates clear, helpful content to guide homeowners through heating, cooling, and indoor air quality decisions. His goal is to empower readers with the knowledge they need to choose the right comfort solutions for their home—confidently and comfortably.
What Is an AC Thermostat?
An AC thermostat is the control center for your home's cooling system. It monitors indoor temperatures and communicates with your air conditioning system. It senses the room's temperature and signals the AC unit to turn on when it gets too warm or turn off once the desired temperature is reached, ensuring both comfort and energy efficiency.
Whether you are looking to upgrade an outdated manual dial or integrate a new smart home hub, choosing the right control is essential for long-term reliability. This guide breaks down the different types of thermostats, how to select the best one for your lifestyle, and how Bryant technology puts efficiency in your hands.
What Are the Different Types of AC Thermostats?
Choosing the right AC thermostat means understanding the three main types available: programmable, non-programmable, and smart thermostats. Each offers different levels of control and efficiency.
Smart Thermostats
Best for: Tech-savvy homeowners seeking maximum efficiency and remote control
Smart thermostats connect to Wi-Fi, allowing you to control your cooling system from anywhere via a smartphone app like the Bryant SmartHome App. They learn your schedule and preferences over time, automatically adjusting temperatures to save energy when you are away. Many models integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and offer detailed energy usage reports.
Programmable Thermostats
Best for: Consistent schedules and predictable energy savings.
A programmable thermostat allows you to pre-set temperature schedules for different times of the day or week. By setting the system to run less often when you are at work or asleep, you can reduce energy bills without sacrificing comfort when you need it most.
Non-Programmable Thermostats
Best for: Simplicity and manual control.
These are the traditional units where you manually set a specific temperature. The system maintains that target until you physically change it again. While straightforward to use, they lack the automated efficiency features of newer models.
How Do I Choose the Right AC Thermostat?
Selecting the right device involves more than just picking a sleek design. It requires matching the technology to your specific HVAC system and your personal comfort goals.
- Check System Compatibility: This is non-negotiable. Your thermostat must match your system's capabilities (e.g., single-stage, multi-stage, or variable-speed). Installing an incompatible unit can lead to poor performance or even equipment damage.
- Prioritize Energy Efficiency: If lowering monthly bills is a priority, look for programmable or smart features. "Efficiency that pays for itself" is a key advantage of modern controls that prevent cooling empty houses.
- Look for Smart Integrations: Do you want to adjust the temp from your couch or receive maintenance alerts? Features like remote access and humidity control offer peace of mind and convenience.
How Do I Maintain My AC Thermostat?
To ensure your system runs as quiet as a whisper and as efficiently as possible, basic maintenance is required.
- Check Batteries: Regularly check and replace the batteries. Low power can cause the thermostat to malfunction or lose your preferred settings.
- Keep sensors clean: Gently clean the thermostat's screen and casing. Dust and grime can interfere with touch controls and temperature sensors, leading to inaccurate readings.
- Schedule Professional Service: Have a certified Bryant dealer perform seasonal HVAC maintenance. A professional can ensure your entire system, including the thermostat, is operating efficiently and prevent potential breakdowns.
AC Thermostats from Bryant
Bryant places whole-home comfort and energy savings in your hands with an array of Wi-Fi® smart thermostats engineered for reliable, efficient control.
Evolution™ System Control
Unlock the full performance of your Evolution heating and cooling system with Evolution System Control. Built-in intelligence and Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to fine-tune temperature, humidity, airflow, ventilation, indoor air quality, and up to eight zones from your smartphone or tablet—wherever you are.
ecobee for Bryant Smart Thermostats
Bryant and ecobee combine smart-home innovation with intuitive design. These sleek thermostats study your routine and comfort preferences to help curb energy use. Pair an ecobee for Bryant thermostat with InteliSense-enabled Performance Series equipment, opt into data sharing, and receive proactive alerts plus remote diagnostics. InteliSense™ technology lets your Bryant dealer monitor system health and address issues quickly, often without a service visit.Bryant Smart Thermostat
Enjoy affordable, connected comfort with the Bryant Smart Thermostat. A minimalist interface featuring touch-sensitive controls and clear icons makes adjusting temperature, mode, and fan settings effortless. The thermostat supports single- and two-stage systems as well as indoor air-quality accessories, while the Bryant SmartHome App lets you craft personalized schedules. Granting data-sharing access gives your Bryant dealer real-time insight for faster, more dependable service.
Connect With a Bryant Dealer
Ready to upgrade your comfort and control? A certified Bryant dealer has the expertise to help you select the perfect AC thermostat for your home and ensure it’s installed correctly for optimal performance. Schedule your appointment for thermostat replacement today.
Discover Bryant Smart Thermostats
Choose a Bryant Smart Thermostat for enhanced comfort, convenience, and energy savings. With its intuitive interface and Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily control your home’s temperature from anywhere using your smartphone. The thermostat learns your preferences, optimizing heating and cooling to fit your schedule, reducing energy waste. It’s also compatible with Bryant heating and cooling systems, offering seamless integration and improved performance. Enjoy greater control and efficiency while keeping your home comfortable year-round.
AC Thermostat FAQs
An AC thermostat is a device that monitors indoor temperature and signals the air conditioner to turn on or off to maintain your desired comfort level.
Choose a thermostat based on your system type (e.g., single-stage, multi-stage, or variable-speed), desired features like Wi-Fi or smart home compatibility, and whether it's programmable or manual.
Programmable thermostats help reduce cooling costs by automatically adjusting temperatures based on your schedule, offering more convenience and consistent comfort.
Check for dead batteries, ensure the breaker isn’t tripped, verify the settings are correct, and inspect for loose wiring. If problems persist, consult an HVAC technician.
Yes. Most modern air conditioners are compatible with Wi-Fi or smart thermostats for remote control and scheduling.
Signs include inconsistent temperatures, no display, or unresponsive controls.
Common types include manual, programmable, and smart thermostats, with options for single- or multi-stage systems.
No. The thermostat is essential to signal and regulate system operation.
In many cases, yes. However, you must verify if your older system has a "C-wire" (common wire) which powers most smart thermostats. A Bryant dealer can assess your wiring and system compatibility.
According to the Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting.
Yes. Thermostats should be installed on an interior wall, away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, or skylights to ensure they read the room temperature accurately.
Learn More
- Read our thermostat buying guide
- Find out more about wireless thermostats
- Explore how thermostats work
- Learn about thermostat replacement
- Read our energy saving thermostat guide
