Summary of Dual set point programmable thermostat
This article describes a DIY dual set-point thermostat designed by Ed Van Every to solve the issue of irregular daily schedules. Unlike standard programmable thermostats requiring manual adjustments, this device allows users to switch between a "working" temperature (70ºF) and an "away" temperature (55ºF) instantly using two push buttons. The system utilizes an Arduino board for control, sensors for environmental monitoring, and a relay to manage heating equipment, providing an energy-efficient solution for dynamic routines.
Parts used in the Dual Set Point Programmable Thermostat:
- Arduino board
- DHT22 sensor
- Electromechanical relay breakout board
- 16×2 character LCD display
- Push buttons
- Heater
Programmable thermostats are cool things. They let you set the room temperature according to your schedule and will automatically make those adjustments for you. If you use them the way they’re intended to, they could be a great way to save on home energy costs. They work perfectly for people with fixed daily schedules. You can set one temperature during the time you are at home and to another when you are away. But what if your everyday routine is not the same? Then you have to manually adjust the temperature every time you are in and out. Ed Van Every was facing the same issue and he came up with a nice DIY solution for this. He wanted his place to be heated to 70ºF when it is occupied, and to 55ºF when it is not. So he made his own dual set point thermostat which allows him to implement his “working temp” with a single hit of a push button and his “away temp” with another push button.
Like most other DIY thermostats, Ed also used an Arduino board as the main brain of the thermostat and DHT22 for sensing ambient temperature and humidity. For controlling the heater, an electromechanical relay breakout board was used. A 16×2 character LCD displays the temperature setting that is currently active, its set-point value, the actual room temperature and humidity. In the event when the heater is turned on, an asterisk symbol * is displayed in the lower middle of the display indicating that the relay circuit is closed.
For more detail: Dual set point programmable thermostat
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What problem does the dual set point thermostat solve?
It solves the issue for people with irregular daily routines who cannot use standard programmable thermostats without manual adjustments. -
How does the user switch between temperatures?
The user switches between the working temperature and away temperature by pressing a single push button for each setting. -
What components are used as the main brain of the thermostat?
An Arduino board is used as the main brain to control the thermostat functions. -
Which sensor is used to sense ambient temperature and humidity?
A DHT22 sensor is used to sense the ambient temperature and humidity levels. -
How is the heater controlled in this project?
An electromechanical relay breakout board is used to control the heater. -
What information is displayed on the 16×2 LCD screen?
The display shows the active temperature setting, set-point value, actual room temperature, and humidity. -
What symbol indicates that the heater is turned on?
An asterisk symbol appears in the lower middle of the display when the relay circuit is closed and the heater is on.
