A smart thermostat is a great way to keep track of your heating and cooling expenses without remembering. Many of these thermostats adjust to your temperature preferences and then create an energy-efficient schedule that corresponds, whether you’re at home or on the go. There’s also the additional 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, usually several hundred dollars more than a basic 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 Offer Rebates for Smart Thermostats
Because a smart home thermostat helps control energy waste, your energy company in Cedar Rapids likely gives a rebate for installing one. You can learn if yours does by calling or searching their website. These rebates typically range from $50 to covering the whole expense of the device.
To sign up, you usually print and complete a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll receive your rebate check quickly. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a big rebate and lower heating and cooling costs down the road!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? According to independent studies commissioned by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, most homeowners save between $131 and $145 yearly after installing one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your new thermostat will pay for itself rapidly.
How to Pick the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Cedar Rapids Residence
There are lots of differing options and functions available on the market, and it can be stressful to research them all. Our HVAC pros discuss the top models below so you can choose the best smart thermostat for your home.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats have a wide range of popular solutions, like having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that makes sure your most-enjoyed rooms are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re ideal if you’re without a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your heating and cooling system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most often installed, 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 regular heating and cooling costs.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally made with the most 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 a simple app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures dramatically change or you are required to change your air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are legendary for their learning capabilities. For the first several days, you’ll use your thermostat as you normally would. Then, the thermostat will adjust itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Similar to other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the ability to keep an eye on energy consumption and get specialized reports monthly.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If smart technology is new to you, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a great place to start. It looks like the programmable thermostat that you know how to use but offers the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to put together schedules that work with you and be notified if something’s up with your system.
Our Specialists Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
From helping you claim valuable rebates to helping you operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at Ilten's are here to help you. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 to get started now!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.