I hardly remember to change the air filter, but my new programmable thermostat tells me when it is time. I bought the programmable thermostat this weekend, when my old digital unit stopped working. All of the numbers disappeared and I thought it was time to change the batteries. When I put a fresh set of batteries in the thermostat, I still had no digital display. I looked up the troubleshooting information online and everyone said it was time to replace the thermostat. I want to the hardware store with a friend of mine, and we checked out the wide selection of temperature control devices. The sales person tried to get me to buy a wireless thermostat, but I didn’t think that was a good option. Sometimes the internet can be spotty in my neck of the woods. I would hate to have no control over the temperature if the internet is out. Instead, I decided to go with a programmable thermostat. It has a lot of the same features as the wireless thermostat, but it works without being hooked up to the Internet. The programmable thermostat has several different settings, so I can set the temperatures differently throughout the day. Another great feature on the programmable thermostat is the notifications. When my air filter needs to be changed, there is a small beeping notification on the thermostat. It’s very annoying and won’t stop until I reset the machine or change the air filter. I think it’s a great way to remind every homeowner that it’s time to perform the monthly maintenance.