What does a thermostat do in an HVAC system?

A thermostat serves a fundamental role in an HVAC system by controlling the operation of the heating and cooling equipment based on the desired indoor temperature set by the user. Its primary function is to monitor the current temperature inside the space and compare it to the setpoint temperature. When the indoor temperature deviates from this desired level, the thermostat activates or deactivates the HVAC system to restore the comfort level. This feedback mechanism is essential for maintaining energy efficiency and comfort within residential and light commercial environments.

While other components in the HVAC system might deal with aspects like measuring outdoor temperature, refrigerant flow, or air filtration, the thermostat's specific purpose is to manage the indoor climate effectively.