- HEP Heat and Air
- NATE-certified Technicians

NATE-certified Technicians
NATE-certified Technicians | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Karns
When Karns homeowners call HEP, they get more than just a new gadget on the wall—they get the confidence that comes with NATE-certified expertise. Our seasoned heating and air conditioning pros evaluate your current system, recommend energy-smart thermostat upgrades, and install them with precision, calibrating every setting so you feel the difference from the first click. Whether you want app-based control, learning technology that adapts to your schedule, or a simple boost in efficiency, we make it effortless.
Because we’re local, we understand the swings of East Tennessee weather and tailor each solution to keep your home comfortable year-round while trimming utility costs. From seamless Wi-Fi setup to step-by-step feature tutorials, HEP takes care of everything—so all you need to do is enjoy perfect temperatures and lower bills. Ready to modernize your comfort? Give us a ring and experience how thermostat upgrades turn everyday climate control into something extraordinary.
FAQs
What advantages can I expect from upgrading to a modern or smart thermostat in Karns?
A modern thermostat lets you program temperature schedules, control your HVAC system from a phone, and track energy use in real time. In Karns, where temperatures swing from hot, humid summers to cool winters, these features help your system run only when needed, typically trimming 10–20 % off annual heating and cooling costs. Many smart models also qualify for local utility rebates, further lowering your overall investment.
Are your technicians really NATE-certified, and why does that matter for a thermostat installation?
Yes. Every technician we send to your home holds current NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification. NATE certification requires rigorous testing on HVAC fundamentals, controls, and troubleshooting. For thermostat upgrades that means your installer knows how to safely wire low-voltage controls, verify compatibility with multi-stage and variable-speed equipment, and program advanced features correctly the first time—preventing callbacks and protecting your system warranty.
Will a new thermostat work with my existing heating and air-conditioning equipment?
In most cases, yes. During a free pre-installation visit, our technician will inspect your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner, check the control board, and determine if you have the necessary C-wire (common wire) for constant power. If your system lacks a C-wire, we can usually add one or install a compatible adapter. We also verify staging (single-, two-, or variable-stage) and accessories such as humidifiers to ensure the new thermostat communicates properly with every component.
How long does a professional thermostat upgrade take from start to finish?
A straightforward replacement typically takes 45–90 minutes. That includes removing the old thermostat, labeling and testing all conductors, mounting and leveling the new base, making secure low-voltage connections, and running a full system test. If a new C-wire has to be pulled or firmware updates are required, allow an extra 30–60 minutes. We schedule appointments in two-hour arrival windows so you’re never left waiting all day.
Can upgrading my thermostat really lower my utility bills in Karns?
Absolutely. Studies by the U.S. Department of Energy show that properly programmed smart thermostats save homeowners about $180 a year on average. Savings in Karns often exceed that because of our long cooling season. Features like geofencing, adaptive learning, and humidity control reduce compressor runtime and short-cycling, directly cutting kilowatt-hour and natural-gas usage. Many utility companies publish real-world case studies that confirm these savings.
What does a thermostat upgrade cost and what kind of warranty do you provide?
Basic programmable thermostats start around $250 installed, while Wi-Fi or learning thermostats range from $350 to $550 installed, depending on features. We provide upfront, flat-rate pricing, so you’ll know the total before work begins. All thermostats come with a manufacturer’s parts warranty of 3–5 years, and we back our labor with a two-year workmanship guarantee. If anything we install fails due to our installation within that window, we’ll repair or replace it at no charge.