A smart thermostat is a good way to stay on top of your utility costs without thinking about it. Many of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match, whether you’re at home or away. There’s also the added convenience of being able to adjust your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.
The downside of smart thermostats is that they’re pricey, often several hundred dollars greater than a simple programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can have a smart thermostat for free, or for not much at all. Here’s how to do it!
Most Energy Companies Offer Rebates for Smart Thermostats
As a smart home thermostat helps manage energy waste, your energy company in Ellsworth typically provides a rebate for buying one. You can discover if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the total expense of the device.
To take advantage of the program, you generally print and complete a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll have your rebate check shortly. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a large rebate and reduced utility bills in the future!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? Based on independent studies commissioned by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, the majority of homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after buying one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your modern thermostat will pay for itself quickly.
How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Ellsworth Residence
There are a lot of varying options and functions available today, and it can be time-consuming to go over them all. Our HVAC professionals go over the top choices below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your house.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats offer a full range of popular features, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that confirms your most-occupied areas are cozy. With an available adapter, they’re ideal if you don’t have a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your heating and cooling system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most popular, because it’s a smart solution for comfort, value and energy efficiency. It has all the important features that could save you an estimated 23% on yearly utility expenses.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitively designed with maximum comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, no matter what room you’re in. With an easy-to-use app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures significantly change or you are required to get a new air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning functions. For the first several days, you’ll set your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will program itself and develop an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or out. Just like other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re away. You’ll also be able to keep an eye on energy use and receive specialized reports monthly.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If you’re not especially technologically savvy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a great place to get started. It looks like the programmable thermostat that you know how to use but offers the perks of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to develop flexible schedules and be notified if something’s wrong with your system.
Our Professionals Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
From helping you take advantage of valuable rebates to helping you get your new smart thermostat working, our comfort specialists at Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC are here to help you. Reach us at 715-318-6728 to get started right away!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.