Does Thermostat Placement Matter?

The thermostat may not be as big a component as the other parts of an HVAC system, making it easy to dismiss it as nothing more than a remote control. In fact, it’s not uncommon for people to have their thermostats installed where it’s convenient. However, thermostat placement requires more thought, and in today’s post, the local HVAC contractors at Schmitt shares insight on whether or not its placement matters.

Why Does Thermostat Placement Matter?

Most thermostats are equipped with a form of temperature sensor. Old-fashioned thermostats use a bi-metal strip that coils and uncoils depending on the temperature, which “signals” the HVAC system when to stop and start. Modern thermostats utilize thermometers or sensors to do the same.

To answer the question — yes, thermostat placement matters. With the exception of smart home systems that utilize multiple sensors placed across the house, thermostats need to be placed at the spot where the room temperature is closest to the average. Placing it near doors, windows and other areas where it could cause false readings would unnecessarily increase the workload for the heating and cooling systems.

Ideal Thermostat Placement

Ideally, the thermostat should be placed in the absolute center of the building, but this is easier said than done. Homes are not boxes, and there are so many variables that can affect airflow and temperature in any given area.

Identifying the areas where you shouldn’t place the thermostat is a good start. In addition to the aforementioned doors and windows, you should avoid exterior walls, vents and registers, and less-used areas like hallways. The last one is of particular note, as many homeowners tend to install thermostats in their hallways. The one thing all these areas have in common is that temperatures can vary wildly in these areas — hardly representative of the house’s average temperature.

Once you have eliminated these areas, it should leave you with a few options. Interior walls near the common areas are one of the best spots to place your thermostat. Vertical placement is likewise important, as placing it too high up will cause temperature readings to be too warm. The ideal installation height is between 52 and 60 inches.

Call Schmitt for Your HVAC Needs!

Schmitt is one of the most trusted residential and commercial HVAC repair contractors serving communities in San Francisco. Give us a call at (415) 689-7849, or you can fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.