A smart thermostat is a great way to manage your heating and cooling bills without having to do much. The majority of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that matches, whether you’re at home or gone. There’s also the additional convenience of being able to adjust your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on a few models.

The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re pricey, often several hundred dollars greater than a plain programmable one. But because they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can get a smart thermostat for free, or for not much at all. Here’s how to do it!

Most Energy Companies Provide Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Because a smart home thermostat helps rein in energy waste, your energy company in Erie typically offers a rebate for purchasing one. You can discover if yours does by contacting them or searching their website. These rebates usually range from $50 to covering the whole cost of the device.

To sign up, you generally print and fill out a form on the website and forward it, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll get your rebate check within a few weeks. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and decreased heating and cooling expenses later on!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? According to independent studies conducted by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, most homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after buying one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your new thermostat will pay for itself quickly.

How to Pick the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Erie Residence

There are lots of differing options and functions available now, and it can be overwhelming to research them all. Our HVAC pros go over the top models below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your residence.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a wide range of popular features, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-used areas are comfy. With an available adapter, they’re great if you’re without a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures proper operation of your home comfort system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most often installed, because it’s a great choice for comfort, value and conserving energy. It comes with all the necessary features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual utility bills.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally created with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat links with smart room sensors to improve your comfort, whatever room you’re in. With an uncomplicated app, you’ll have temperature management at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures drastically change or you are required to replace your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning capabilities. For the first several days, you’ll use your thermostat as you typically would. Then, the thermostat will program itself and make an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or away. Like other smart thermostats, you can control it with your phone when you’re out and about. You’ll also be able to monitor energy use and have individualized reports monthly.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If you’re new to smart home technology, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a great place to start. It is similar to the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but offers the pluses of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to create schedules that work with you and get alerts if something’s suspect with your system.

Our Professionals Can Provide Support with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you claim valuable rebates to helping you install your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at Patterson & Stirling are here to support you. Give us a call at 814-308-0416 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.