A smart thermostat is a fantastic way to stay on top of your heating and cooling bills without thinking about it. Many of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then make an energy-efficient schedule that corresponds, whether you’re at home or gone. There’s also the added convenience of being able to change your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.

The disadvantage of smart thermostats is that they’re pricey, usually several hundred dollars greater than a plain programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can receive a smart thermostat for free, or for not much at all. Here’s how to do it!

A Lot of Energy Companies Offer Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Because a smart home thermostat helps rein in energy waste, your energy company in Cedar Rapids probably gives a rebate for buying one. You can discover if yours does by reaching them or looking at their website. These rebates usually range from $50 to covering the whole expense of the device.

To sign up, you usually print and fill out a form on the website and mail it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll receive your rebate check shortly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and lower heating and cooling bills later on!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

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

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Cedar Rapids House

There are lots of differing options and functions available now, and it can be overwhelming to go over them all. Our HVAC specialists discuss the top brands below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your house.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats provide a complete range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that makes sure your most-enjoyed areas are comfy. With an available adapter, they’re ideal if you lack a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures proper operation of your home comfort system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most popular, as it’s a smart choice for comfort, value and energy efficiency. It includes all the important features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual utility bills.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitively made with the most comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat works with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, regardless of what space you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature control at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures dramatically fluctuate or you are required to change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are legendary for their learning capacity. For the first couple of days, you’ll use your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will set itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Like other smart thermostats, you can adjust it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the ability to keep an eye on energy needs and get individualized reports monthly.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If you’re new to smart home technology, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a fantastic place to start. It is similar to the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but provides the perks of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to put together flexible schedules and get alerts 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 get your new smart thermostat working, our comfort professionals at Ilten's are here to support you. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 to get started now!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.