A smart thermostat is a great way to keep track of your heating and cooling costs without having to do much. Many of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that matches, whether you’re at home or on the go. There’s also the extra convenience of being able to change your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.
The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re pricey, often several hundred dollars higher than a plain programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can receive a smart thermostat for free, or at very little cost. Here’s how to do it!
Many Energy Companies Have Rebates for Smart Thermostats
As a smart home thermostat helps rein in energy waste, your energy company in Erie likely provides a rebate for purchasing one. You can discover if yours does by contacting them or searching their website. These rebates typically range from $50 to covering the entire cost of the device.
To apply, you typically print and complete a form on the website and mail it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll get your rebate check within a few weeks. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a big rebate and reduced utility expenses down the road!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can a smart thermostat save you? Based on independent studies conducted by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, many homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after getting one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your smart thermostat will pay for itself fast.
How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Erie Home
There are lots of different options and functions available now, and it can be time-consuming to research them all. Our HVAC professionals discuss the top choices below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your residence.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats provide a wide range of popular options, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that makes sure your most-used spaces are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re great if you don’t have a C-wire. This wire gives power to your smart thermostat and ensures correct operation of your heating and cooling system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermost is one of the most sought after, because it’s a smart option for comfort, value and conserving energy. It has all the necessary features that could save you an estimated 23% on yearly energy costs.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitively designed with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat works with smart room sensors to boost your comfort, regardless of what room you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature management at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures drastically increase or lower or you should change your air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are most known for their learning functions. For the first several days, you’ll use your thermostat as you normally would. Then, the thermostat will adjust itself and make an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or away. Just like other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re out and about. You’ll also have the ability to monitor energy needs and get individualized reports every month.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If you’re not especially technologically savvy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a good place to get started. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you know how to use but gives the pluses of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to put together schedules that work with you and be notified if something’s up with your system.
Our Professionals Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
From helping you claim valuable rebates to helping you operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at Patterson & Stirling Inc are here to help you. Reach us at 814-308-0416 to get started right away!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.