Thermostat Accessories - Explore the Possibilities

A thermostat lock box, also referred to as a thermostat guard, or cover, is simply a protective device for keeping your thermostat safe. Usually lock boxes come in mini, small, medium, or large sizes so that fitting to your exact make and model of thermostat is not a problem. There are of course, lock boxes specifically designed for a certain thermostat. Lock boxes can come in colors or solid white, to hide a dull looking thermostat, or in clear to solely serve as thermostat protection without altering the look of your thermostat. Lock boxes can be locked with keys to stop others from changing your temperature settings and raising your electric bills without your knowledge! Some come with tamper-resistant locks, so the key cannot be removed easily.

Sensors are used with a thermostat to accurately tell and relay surrounding temperatures. There are several types to choose from such as bi-metal, electronic thermistors, and electrical thermocouples. Bi-metal types operate through two kinds of metals, joined to change temperature into mechanical displacement. Electronic thermistors differ from other sensors in that they consist of ceramic or polymer, opposed to metals. Electrical thermocouples are a common type of sensor, usually low cost, and operate by measuring temperature difference between two points instead of absolute temperature. Because of this reason, thermocouples are not the most accurate type of sensor.

Gas valves are safety units for gas powered heating. These units stop gas supply in the event of unsafe conditions such as an interruption in gas or power. If you are updating your heating system with a new thermostat, this may be a great time to replace your gas valve. Consider a 3/4 by 3/4 inch inlet outlet size.

A humidistat is a device that allows your thermostat to direct not only temperature, but also humidity levels. Like a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor is simply a recording device to give your thermostat the ability to control these two functions simultaneously for ultimate comfort levels in a home.

Thermostat subbases are usually included with your original thermostat, and if you took apart your thermostat, you would see the subbase already there. However, certain models require a subbase, and sometimes older models require that the subbase be purchased separately. With a conductive grid, the subbase connects heating and cooling mechanisms from your home systems to your thermostat face.