Home Comfort
Home Comfort | Thermostat Upgrades | Heating and Air Conditioning | Harriman
Imagine tapping a screen and instantly dialing in the perfect temperature for every room of your Harriman home—no more furnace guesswork or AC over-cooling, just effortless comfort and lower utility bills. HEP’s Home Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning makes that a reality with thermostat upgrades that pair cutting-edge smart controls with the trusted, hometown service our Harriman neighbors have counted on for decades. From learning thermostats that adapt to your schedule to Wi-Fi models you can manage from the lake or the living room, we install and fine-tune systems that keep your indoor climate—and your energy spending—right on target.
Ready to swap outdated dials for intelligent efficiency? Our certified technicians handle everything, including seamless integration with your existing HVAC equipment and a quick walkthrough so you feel like a pro from day one. Call or click today, and let HEP elevate your comfort with the smartest thermostat upgrades in Roane County.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of upgrading to a modern (programmable or smart) thermostat in Harriman?
Newer thermostats give you precise temperature control, weekly and vacation scheduling, and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth remote access through a phone or tablet. Because Harriman’s climate swings from humid 90 °F summers to frosty 20 °F winter nights, the ability to automate set-backs and ramp-ups can lower heating/cooling run-time by 8–20 % a year. Smart models also track local TVA time-of-day electric rates, send filter-change reminders, and alert you to abnormal humidity levels or rapid temperature drops that can indicate a system problem.
Which thermostat types or models work best with heat pumps, dual-fuel furnaces, and other common HVAC set-ups in our area?
Most homes here use either an electric heat pump with auxiliary electric strip heat or a dual-fuel system that pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace. Look for a thermostat that specifically lists “heat-pump with auxiliary” or “dual-fuel” compatibility, such as the Honeywell T6 Pro, ecobee Premium, or Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen). These models include outdoor-temperature lockout logic that prevents the heat pump from running when it’s below ±35 °F, automatically switching to the more efficient gas or strip heat stage.
How much does a professional thermostat upgrade cost and what kind of energy savings should I expect?
In Harriman, basic digital programmable thermostats start around $190 installed, mid-range connected Wi-Fi units run $280–$350, and full-featured learning or zoned smart thermostats range from $400 to $650 installed. TVA studies show that households using program schedules or geo-fencing save $140–$220 per year on power bills, meaning payback often occurs within 18–30 months. If you participate in local utility demand-response programs, you may qualify for additional rebates that further shorten the payback period.
Do I need a C-wire or other electrical changes to install a smart thermostat?
Most smart thermostats require a continuous 24-volt “common” (C-wire) from the air-handler control board. Homes built after about 2005 usually already have it. If yours does not, our technicians can install an add-a-wire kit or run a new low-voltage conductor during the visit; in rare cases we may replace an older transformer. The extra labor typically adds $60–$110 to the job and only has to be done once.
Can I install the thermostat myself or should I hire a licensed HVAC contractor?
Simple battery-powered thermostats are often DIY-friendly, but heat pump, multi-stage, or dual-fuel systems found in Harriman have more terminals and configuration options. An incorrect O/B or AUX connection can lock out the heat pump or run strips unnecessarily, driving bills up quickly. Hiring a NATE-certified technician ensures proper wiring, outdoor-sensor setup, and equipment testing. Professional installation also preserves the thermostat’s manufacturer warranty and qualifies you for utility rebates that require proof of licensed installation.
What ongoing maintenance, updates, or troubleshooting should I plan for after the upgrade?
Most new thermostats update firmware automatically over Wi-Fi. Once or twice a year, review your programmed schedules—especially when the clocks change or kids’ school hours shift—to be sure set-points still match your lifestyle. Replace backup batteries annually if the model uses them. If you notice temperature swings greater than 2 °F or the heat pump runs constantly, check the thermostat’s equipment logs for error codes and call us if needed. We include a free calibration check during every spring AC tune-up or fall furnace inspection.