What does the control differential refer to in the context of thermostats?

In the context of thermostats, the control differential refers to the difference between the cut-in point and cut-out point. This differential is critical for maintaining temperature control within a system. When a thermostat is set to a specific temperature, the cut-in point indicates when the heating or cooling system should turn on to reach that desired temperature. Conversely, the cut-out point is the temperature at which the system will turn off to prevent overshooting the set temperature.

The control differential helps to establish a range within which the system operates. By allowing for this range, it prevents the system from constantly turning on and off, which can lead to inefficiency and wear over time. Therefore, understanding this differential is essential for optimal thermostat function and maintaining comfort in controlled environments.