A smart thermostat is a great way to keep track of your energy costs without thinking about it. Most of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then make an energy-efficient schedule that corresponds, whether you’re at home or away. There’s also the extra convenience of being able to adjust your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.

The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re costly, typically several hundred dollars higher than a basic programmable one. But as 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

Since a smart home thermostat helps manage energy waste, your energy company in Sandpoint typically provides a rebate for buying one. You can find out if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates usually range from $50 to covering the whole price of the device.

To sign up, you generally print and fill out a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll have your rebate check within a few weeks. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and lower utility expenses in the future!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can a smart thermostat trim your bill? Based on independent studies commissioned by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, most homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after getting one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your new thermostat will pay for itself rapidly.

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Sandpoint Home

There are many differing options and functions available now, and it can be stressful to review them all. Our HVAC pros discuss the top models below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your home.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a full range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-used areas are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re great if you lack a C-wire. This wire gives power to your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your HVAC system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most popular, because it’s a wise option for comfort, value and energy efficiency. It has all the essential features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual heating and cooling bills.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are instinctively made with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to improve your comfort, regardless of what room you’re in. With an uncomplicated app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, plus alerts if temperatures dramatically change or you should change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are most known for their learning capabilities. For the first couple of days, you’ll set your thermostat as you normally would. Then, the thermostat will set itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or out. Like other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re away. You’ll also have the ability to keep an eye on energy needs and have personalized 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 begin. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but gives the advantages of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the option to put together flexible schedules and get alerts if something’s wrong with your system.

Our Pros Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you receive valuable rebates to helping you install your new smart thermostat, our comfort professionals at Age Heating & Cooling are here to support you. Contact us at 208-603-2210 to get started now!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.