A smart thermostat is a fantastic way to manage your energy costs without remembering. The majority of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then create 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 costly, typically several hundred dollars higher than a plain programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can have a smart thermostat for free, or at little expense. Here’s how to do it!

Many Energy Companies Have Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Since a smart home thermostat helps manage energy waste, your energy company in Kearney probably provides a rebate for purchasing one. You can learn if yours does by contacting them or checking their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the entire expense of the device.

To take advantage of the program, 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 within a few weeks. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a large rebate and reduced utility expenses down the road!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can a smart thermostat trim your bill? According to independent studies commissioned 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 smart thermostat will pay for itself rapidly.

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Kearney House

There are a lot of different options and functions available now, and it can be overwhelming to research them all. Our HVAC pros review the top models below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your home.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a complete range of popular solutions, like having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that confirms your most-enjoyed rooms are cozy. With an available adapter, they’re fantastic if you’re without a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures proper operation of your HVAC system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most popular, as it’s a smart solution for comfort, value and energy savings. It comes with all the important features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual heating and cooling expenses.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are instinctively designed with the most comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat links with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, regardless of what room you’re in. With an uncomplicated app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures significantly increase or lower or you need to change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning capacity. For the first couple of days, you’ll use your thermostat as you typically would. Then, the thermostat will set itself and develop an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Just like other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the opportunity to monitor energy needs and receive specialized reports each month.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If smart technology is new to you, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a fantastic place to begin. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but provides the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll be able to develop flexible schedules and receive alerts if something’s suspect with your system.

Our Pros Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you receive valuable rebates to helping you operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help you. Contact us at 308-624-3485 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.