A smart thermostat is a good way to keep track of your heating and cooling bills without thinking about it. Most of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match, whether you’re at home or on the go. There’s also the additional convenience of being able to set your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.
The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, usually several hundred dollars greater than a simple programmable one. But because they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can receive a smart thermostat for free, or at little expense. 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 Lake Forest likely offers a rebate for buying one. You can discover if yours does by reaching them or searching their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the entire cost of the device.
To take advantage of the program, you typically print and fill out a form on the website and send it in, 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 reduced utility costs down the road!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can a smart thermostat save you? Based on independent studies led by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, the majority of homeowners save between $131 and $145 yearly after getting one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your smart thermostat will pay for itself rapidly.
How to Choose the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Lake Forest Home
There are many differing options and functions available today, and it can be stressful to research them all. Our HVAC professionals go over the top brands below so you can choose the best smart thermostat for your house.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats have a complete range of popular solutions, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-occupied areas are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re fantastic if you lack a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures correct operation of your home comfort system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermost is one of the most often installed, since it’s a wise solution for comfort, value and conserving energy. It includes all the essential features that could save you an estimated 23% on regular utility expenses.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally designed with maximum comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat works with smart room sensors to boost your comfort, regardless of what area you’re in. With an easy-to-use app, you’ll have temperature control at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures significantly fluctuate or you should get a new air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are most known for their learning capacity. 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. Just like other smart thermostats, you can adjust it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also be able to see energy consumption and have personalized reports each month.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If you’re not especially technologically savvy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a great place to start. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but gives the perks of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the option to make schedules that work around you and get alerts if something’s suspect with your system.
Our Professionals Can Assist You with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
From helping you claim valuable rebates to helping you operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort professionals at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. are here to support you. Give us a call at 949-204-0859 to get started today!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.