Abstract: Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for facilitating installation and/or connection of controllers such as thermostats. In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating installation and/or connection of a controller in a climate control system generally includes a communication device configured to execute software instructions to receive user input describing a wire arrangement where the controller is to be installed for use in the climate control system. Based on the user input, the communication device identifies a configuration of the climate control system and specifies wiring connections between the wire arrangement and controller.

Abstract: Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for facilitating installation and/or customization of controllers, e.g., thermostats. In one embodiment, a web-based server communicates with a user communication device having a display. The server receives, from the user communication device, user input identifying a thermostat and specifying a task through which to be guided. The server sends to the user communication device, for visual depiction as images on the display and elicitation of user response thereto, steps to be performed (a) to install the thermostat in a climate control system or (b) to enter a schedule and/or other settings onto the thermostat. The user communication device performs as a conduit between the server and user to interactively and visually guide the user to change the configuration state of the thermostat by installing the thermostat and/or setting thermostat customization settings.

Abstract: Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for facilitating installation and/or connection of controllers such as thermostats. In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating installation and/or connection of a controller in a climate control system generally includes a communication device configured to execute software instructions to receive user input describing a wire arrangement where the controller is to be installed for use in the climate control system. Based on the user input, the communication device identifies a configuration of the climate control system and specifies wiring connections between the wire arrangement and controller.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a system for viewing measurements remotely, including a first processor that is connected to a wireless communications device; a sensor; and at least one measurement device comprising a second processor programmed to (1) receive an input from the sensor and (2) wirelessly communicate with the first processor. The first processor is programmed to retrieve measurements from the measurement device via the wireless communications device.

Abstract: A method of controlling a heating system including at least a first stage heat pump and a second stage auxiliary heater, and a control that implements the method. The control shuts off the first stage heat pump during cold outside temperatures without the need to directly sense the outside temperature. The method includes selectively turning on the first stage heat pump or the second stage auxiliary heater based upon a measure of the amount of time at least one of the stages was on verses the time neither of the stages was on. This can be implemented with a counter that increases when neither the heat pump nor the auxiliary heater is on, and that decreases when either the heat pump or the auxiliary heater is on.