digital thermostat features

New programmable thermostats may include several helpful features: lighted displays for nighttime, touch pad screen and net programming, lights to remind you to change air filter, etc

Some of these features are rather redundant, but others may be helpful.

Many features of the more expensive thermostats aren't included in the cheaper ones - though they may look alike.

New features

- New scheduling options (see: Programmable thermostats and built-in settings);

- Automatic switching between heating and cooling mode;

- Batteries (to keep the internal clock ticking and to preserve settings during power outages), and indicator of low battery warning;

- Smart-recovery features.

- Backlit displays (a convenience in dark locations);

- Touch pad screen programming; Net, voice and phone programming of the thermostat;

- Indicators to remind when it's time to change air filters;

- Hold/Vacation features

- Malfunctioning indicators lights to signal problems in heating and cooling systems;

- Thermostat keypad lock (to prevent children changing the thermostat settings);

- Possibility to detach the thermostat from its base in order to enter schedules from the comfort of a chair.