A smart thermostat is a good way to keep track of your heating and cooling costs without thinking about it. The majority of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that corresponds, whether you’re at home or away. There’s also the extra convenience of being able to change your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on some models.
The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, usually several hundred dollars higher than a simple programmable one. But because 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!
Many Energy Companies Provide Rebates for Smart Thermostats
Since a smart home thermostat helps manage energy waste, your energy company in Cedar Rapids likely offers a rebate for installing one. You can discover if yours does by reaching them or checking their website. These rebates typically range from $50 to covering the total cost of the device.
To apply, you usually print and finish a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll get your rebate check within a few weeks. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and lower utility costs in the future!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? Based off of 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 quickly.
How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Cedar Rapids Residence
There are a lot of differing options and functions available now, and it can be time-consuming to research them all. Our HVAC pros go over the top choices below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your residence.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats provide a wide range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that confirms your most-occupied spaces are cozy. 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 Thermostat is one of the most popular, because it’s a great solution for comfort, value and conserving energy. It comes with all the necessary features that could save you an estimated 23% on yearly energy costs.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally designed with top 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 management at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures significantly change or you should replace your air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are most known for their learning capacity. For the first several days, you’ll adjust your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will set itself and develop 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 away. You’ll also have the opportunity to see energy needs and have individualized 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’re comfortable with but gives the pluses of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the option to develop schedules that work with you and get alerts if something’s up with your system.
Our Professionals 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 pros at Ilten's are here to support you. Contact us at 319-208-2351 to get started now!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.