A smart thermostat is a fantastic way to manage your heating and cooling expenses without remembering. The majority of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that corresponds, whether you’re at home or on the go. There’s also the added 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, often several hundred dollars higher than a simple programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can get a smart thermostat for free, or at very little cost. Here’s how to do it!

A Lot of Energy Companies Provide Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Because a smart home thermostat helps control energy waste, your energy company in Columbia typically gives a rebate for installing one. You can find out if yours does by calling or searching their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the total price of the device.

To apply, you usually print and finish a form on the website and mail it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll receive your rebate check within a few weeks. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a big rebate and lower heating and cooling bills later on!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can a smart thermostat save you? According to independent studies led by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, many homeowners save between $131 and $145 yearly after getting 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 Columbia Residence

There are lots of differing options and functions available on the market, and it can be stressful to go over them all. Our HVAC specialists discuss the top models below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your home.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a full range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that makes sure your most-occupied spaces are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re great if you’re without a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures correct operation of your HVAC system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most sought after, as it’s a wise option for comfort, value and energy savings. It includes all the necessary features that could save you an estimated 23% on regular utility expenses.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally created with maximum comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat links with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, whatever room you’re in. With an easy-to-use app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures significantly change or you need to change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning capabilities. For the first couple of days, you’ll set your thermostat as you normally would. Then, the thermostat will set 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 out and about. You’ll also have the opportunity to see energy needs and receive personalized reports monthly.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If smart technology is new to you, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a great place to get started. It looks like the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but gives the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the option to develop schedules that work with you and be notified if something’s wrong with your system.

Our Pros Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you claim valuable rebates to helping you install your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at Watts Electric & AC are here to assist you. Give us a call at 601-736-7362 to get started now!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.