HVAC System
HVAC System | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Philadelphia
When winter winds swirl off the Delaware or a sudden summer heatwave turns rowhomes into ovens, the right thermostat makes all the difference. HEP’s certified technicians specialize in thermostat upgrades that place precision climate control at your fingertips—whether you prefer a sleek smart model you can adjust from the Jersey Shore or a simple, user-friendly programmable unit that keeps energy bills in check while you’re at work in Center City. We handle every detail, from wiring and Wi-Fi setup to coaching you through the mobile app, so you can enjoy even temperatures and real-time savings without the guesswork.
Choosing us for thermostat upgrades means tapping into decades of HVAC expertise tailored to Philadelphia’s eclectic housing stock. Our team fine-tunes your new device to communicate seamlessly with your existing heating and air-conditioning equipment, maximizing system lifespan and comfort. With transparent pricing, same-day service windows, and a satisfaction guarantee rooted in local pride, HEP turns upgrading your thermostat from a chore into an instant home-improvement win.
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading my thermostat when I replace or service my HVAC system in Philadelphia?
Modern programmable and smart thermostats give you tighter control over temperature swings common in Philadelphia’s hot, humid summers and cold winters. By automatically adjusting set-points when you’re asleep or away, they prevent the furnace or air conditioner from running longer than necessary, trimming 8–15 % off annual utility costs. They also provide diagnostic data that helps technicians spot HVAC issues early, extending equipment life. When installed during an HVAC service visit, wiring and configuration are easier and often covered by the same labor warranty, saving you an extra trip charge later.
What thermostat upgrade options are available, and how do I choose the right one for my home?
The three main categories are (1) Non-programmable digital thermostats—basic, low cost, manual control; (2) 7-day/5-2 programmable thermostats—let you schedule different temperatures for workdays and weekends; and (3) Wi-Fi smart thermostats—self-learning, app-controlled, and compatible with smart speakers. Homes with consistent occupancy benefit from a simple programmable unit, while households with irregular schedules or multiple zones usually gain more savings from a smart thermostat that uses geofencing and occupancy sensors. Our technicians perform a quick compatibility check of your HVAC control board, voltage (24 V vs line-voltage), and existing wiring to recommend the best model.
Will a smart thermostat work with my existing furnace and air conditioner?
In most Philadelphia-area residences the answer is yes. Nearly all gas furnaces, heat pumps, and central air conditioners built after the mid-1990s use the standard 24-volt "R-C-Y-W-G" terminal layout that today’s smart thermostats support. The main requirement is a dedicated C (common) wire for continuous power. If you don’t have a C-wire, we can usually add one at the air-handler control board or install an approved power extender kit. For high-voltage electric baseboard heat, you’ll need a line-voltage smart thermostat specifically rated for 120/240 V loads. During our site visit we confirm equipment staging, humidifier or dehumidifier controls, and any zoning dampers to guarantee full functionality.
How much can I expect to save on energy bills with a thermostat upgrade in Philadelphia’s climate?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that setting back your thermostat 7–10 °F for 8 hours each day saves up to 10 % on heating and cooling. In PECO’s electric territory, that translates to roughly $120–$180 per year for a 2,000 sq ft home. Smart thermostats enhance those savings with adaptive algorithms, weather-responsive set-points, and real-time occupancy detection, pushing annual savings closer to $200–$250. Because Philadelphia experiences about 3,000 heating degree days and 1,200 cooling degree days, payback on a quality smart thermostat is typically 1–2 years, faster if you also enroll in utility demand-response programs that pay bill credits for brief temperature adjustments on peak days.
Are there rebates or incentives for installing a smart thermostat in Philadelphia?
Yes. PECO Energy currently offers residential customers a $50 bill credit or prepaid Visa card for purchasing and professionally installing an ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat. Customers who heat with natural gas can stack an additional $25 rebate from PGW. Some models also qualify for manufacturer mail-in rebates or instant point-of-sale discounts at local big-box stores. To claim the incentive, you’ll need to provide the thermostat’s model number, proof of purchase, and a dated installation invoice from a licensed HVAC contractor—our company supplies all paperwork and submits the application on your behalf at no extra charge.
What does the thermostat upgrade process involve and how long will installation take?
Our certified technician first powers down your HVAC equipment, documents existing wiring, and removes the old thermostat base. We then verify the presence of a C-wire; if it’s missing, we either fish a new wire through the wall or install a power extender module inside the furnace cabinet. After mounting the new thermostat level on the wall, we connect all terminals, restore power, and walk through the on-screen setup: equipment type, fuel source, number of heating/cooling stages, Wi-Fi credentials, and any geofencing preferences. Finally we test heating, cooling, fan, and accessory functions and show you how to use the mobile app. Most upgrades take 45–90 minutes, require no drywall repair, and come with a one-year labor warranty plus the manufacturer’s parts warranty.