Home automation increasingly utilizes the internet as a means of accessing devices like lights, security equipment and surveillance cameras. This connectivity has expanded to include remote control of your heating and cooling with internet-accessible, programmable thermostats. Also known as IP thermostats, these units give homeowners full monitoring and control of the home environment even while away from home. Internet thermostats incorporate a dedicated server with its own discrete IP address on the internet. Anywhere in the world there’s an internet connection, you can access your programmable thermostat using a standard internet browser. Like any other internet device, your thermostat is password-protected to prevent unauthorized access.Programmable thermostats automatically activate timed heating or air conditioning events during pre-determined spans in a 24-hour period. However, sometimes a homeowner may wish to override programmed events from a remote location or simply re-program the thermostat. Typical scenarios for internet control might include canceling a programmed activation of the HVAC system because you’re going to be working late or delayed returning from an out-of-town trip.Remotely monitoring the temperature of your residence during cold spells or heat waves also permits online activation of the HVAC system as needed to prevent pipe freezing or unsafe conditions for pets. Checking and adjusting interior temperatures while you’re away may be important if the residence has children or elderly at home who cannot operate the HVAC equipment.The link between homeowner and an IP thermostat is two-way. When you are away from home, many models will automatically send a text message or email to alert you to unusual or hazardous conditions like sudden temperature extremes or a component failure causing a shutdown of the HVAC system.Another advantage of internet access to your thermostat is ease in programming—even while you’re home. Some users find a browser-based programming tool more intuitive and functional than programming on/off events directly using buttons on the thermostat.For over 30 years, Air Assurance has provided Broken Arrow and Tulsa-area homeowners with the latest in HVAC technology. Contact us for more information on internet-controlled programmable thermostats.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today! Thermostat image via Shutterstock