A smart thermostat is a good way to manage your energy bills without thinking about it. The majority of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule to match, whether you’re at home or gone. There’s also the additional convenience of being able to set your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.
The disadvantage of smart thermostats is that they’re pricey, often several hundred dollars higher than a simple 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!
Most Energy Companies Offer Rebates for Smart Thermostats
Since a smart home thermostat helps control energy waste, your energy company in Sandpoint likely offers a rebate for purchasing one. You can find out if yours does by calling or looking at their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the entire price of the device.
To take advantage of the program, you typically print and fill out a form on the website and forward it, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll get your rebate check quickly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and lower heating and cooling expenses down the road!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can a smart thermostat trim your bill? Based off of independent studies commissioned by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, many homeowners save between $131 and $145 yearly after buying one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your modern thermostat will pay for itself fast.
How to Choose the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Sandpoint House
There are lots of varying options and functions available now, and it can be overwhelming to review them all. Our HVAC pros go over the top brands below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your home.
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-occupied areas are cozy. With an available adapter, they’re great if you don’t have a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your heating and cooling system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermost is one of the most sought after, because it’s a wise solution for comfort, value and conserving energy. It comes with all the important features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual energy bills.*
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 improve your comfort, regardless of what room you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature management at your fingertips, plus alerts if temperatures drastically fluctuate or you are required to get a new air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are legendary for their learning functions. For the first few days, you’ll use your thermostat as you typically would. Then, the thermostat will adjust itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or away. Like other smart thermostats, you can adjust it with your phone when you’re away. You’ll also have the opportunity to monitor energy needs and receive specialized reports each month.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If you’re not especially technologically savvy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a fantastic place to start. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you know how to use but gives the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to create schedules that work with you and be notified if something’s wrong 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 specialists at Age Heating & Cooling are here to support you. Give us a call at 208-578-4258 to get started now!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.