A smart thermostat is a fantastic way to manage your heating and cooling bills without thinking about it. Most of these thermostats adjust to your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule to match, 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 downside of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, often several hundred dollars greater than a plain programmable one. But because they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can get a smart thermostat for free, or at little expense. 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 likely offers a rebate for installing one. You can discover if yours does by reaching them or searching their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the entire cost of the device.

To sign up, you usually print and complete 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 expenses 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, the majority of 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 Pick the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Columbia Residence

There are a lot of different options and functions available today, and it can be stressful to go over them all. Our HVAC specialists review the top models below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your residence.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats have a complete range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that confirms your most-used spaces are cozy. With an available adapter, they’re fantastic if you lack a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your home comfort system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most often installed, as it’s a smart option for comfort, value and energy savings. It comes with all the essential features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual utility bills.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally made with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, no matter what area you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, plus alerts if temperatures significantly change or you are required to change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning functions. For the first several days, you’ll set your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will set itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or out. Like other smart thermostats, you can adjust it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the ability to see energy consumption and receive individualized reports every month.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If smart technology is new to you, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a fantastic place to start. It looks like the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but gives the pluses of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the option to develop schedules that work with you and receive alerts if something’s up with your system.

Our Specialists Can Assist You 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 support you. Give us a call at 601-736-7362 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.