When installing a thermostat, which location is generally considered the best?

When installing a thermostat, placing it in a central location away from direct sunlight is generally considered the best choice. This positioning allows the thermostat to get a more accurate reading of the room temperature, as it is less likely to be influenced by external factors such as sunlight or drafts.

When a thermostat is located near windows, it may receive direct sunlight, which can cause it to register higher temperatures than the actual air temperature in the rest of the room. Similarly, placing it in a hallway, while often a common practice, may not accurately represent the temperature of the main living spaces, particularly if those areas tend to have different heating or cooling needs. Additionally, positioning the thermostat near air vents could lead to false readings as the airflow from the vent may artificially alter the perceived temperature.

Therefore, a central location protects against these external influences, ensuring that the thermostat can effectively monitor and regulate the heating and cooling system based on the average temperature of the entire space.