A smart thermostat is a good way to stay on top of your heating and cooling costs without having to do much. Many 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 added convenience of being able to adjust your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.
The disadvantage of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, typically several hundred dollars greater than a plain programmable one. But since 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 Have Rebates for Smart Thermostats
As a smart home thermostat helps rein in energy waste, your energy company in the Bay Area probably offers a rebate for buying one. You can find out if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates typically range from $50 to covering the entire cost of the device.
To take advantage of the program, you usually print and fill out a form on the website and mail it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll have your rebate check shortly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and decreased energy costs later on!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can a smart thermostat save you? Based off of independent studies led by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, the majority of 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 quickly.
How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your the Bay Area Home
There are lots of differing options and functions available today, and it can be overwhelming to review them all. Our HVAC pros review the top brands below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your house.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats have a complete range of popular features, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that confirms your most-occupied rooms are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re ideal if you’re without a C-wire. This wire gives power to your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your HVAC system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermost is one of the most sought after, since 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 annual heating and cooling costs.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally designed with the most comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to boost your comfort, whatever room you’re in. With an easy-to-use app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures drastically increase or lower or you are required to 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 use your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will program itself and make an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Like other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re away. You’ll also be able to keep an eye on energy consumption and get individualized reports every month.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If you’re new to smart home technology, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a good place to get started. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but provides the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll be able to create schedules that work with you and receive alerts if something’s up with your system.
Our Specialists Can Provide Support with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
From helping you take advantage of valuable rebates to helping you get your new smart thermostat working, our comfort professionals at Contra Costa Heating & AC are here to assist you. Give us a call at 510-343-9841 to get started now!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.