Re: Thermostat recommendations?

["Mark Thomas" <mrt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bradley Plett wrote:
> I am completely new to the world of home automation.  However, my
> thermostat needs to be replaced, and I would very much like to replace
> it with something that I can program from my PC.  Having said that, I
> don't really know where to begin.  Has anyone got any suggestions for
> me?
>
> Here is a further elaboration of my situation.  I would like,
> eventually, to put controllable dampers or flow controls or whatever
> they're called into the pipes from my furnace/AC so that I can control
> different zones separately.  However, I can't afford that right now.
> So, I want to start by replacing my thermostat, with a view to
> building the system out further if/when I can afford more.

For easy single-point PC control, you can get an IP thermostat with a
built-in web server like the Proliphix
(http://www.proliphix.com/pro_products_consumer.html). Instant PC
access, but you have to run Cat5 to your thermostat location.

You could also get a direct-RS232 or RS-485 controlled unit. One
example is the HAI RC Series
(http://www.hometech.com/modules/therm.html#HAI). Another example is
the Aprilaire 8870
(http://www.smarthomeusa.com/Shop/Climate/aprilaire/Aprilaire-Communicating/Item/8870/).
These get quite expensive if you want zone control, as you have to by
the HAI Omni or an Aprilaire system controller to do this (and I think
only certain Omnistats work with zoned systems).

But what might be a good fit for you is the RCS series
(http://www.resconsys.com/products/stats/serial.htm). It uses your
existing thermostat wire to communicate from the thermostats to an
included controller, so it's easy to retrofit. But it is easy and
cost-effective to grow it into a full zoned system with automatic
damper control. Be careful when buying from places like Smarthome--they
only sell the thermostats in a bundle with a controller. I've seen
people buy 6 sets from Smarthome, and then they have a stack of five
extra unused controllers. Find a place where you can buy the Wall
Display Units separately (i.e. Worthington, $75) and a separate zone
controller ($150-300 depending on number of zones and communication
options). Lots of home control software (including the free
MisterHouse) can interface with an RCS system.

Hope this helps.

- Mark.