A smart thermostat is a good way to manage your utility bills without thinking about it. Many of these thermostats learn 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 adjust your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on select models.
The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, usually several hundred dollars more than a plain programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can receive a smart thermostat for free, or at very little cost. Here’s how to do it!
Many Energy Companies Offer Rebates for Smart Thermostats
Since a smart home thermostat helps control energy waste, your energy company in Bend probably offers a rebate for buying one. You can find out if yours does by contacting them or looking at their website. These rebates usually range from $50 to covering the total cost of the device.
To take advantage of the program, you usually print and finish a form on the website and forward it, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll get your rebate check quickly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a large rebate and lower utility bills down the road!
How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?
But just how much can a smart thermostat trim your bill? Based on independent studies conducted by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, the majority of homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after installing one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your modern thermostat will pay for itself fast.
How to Pick the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Bend House
There are a lot of varying options and functions available now, and it can be stressful to research them all. Our HVAC professionals discuss the top brands below so you can select the best smart thermostat for your house.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat
Ecobee smart thermostats have a wide range of popular features, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-occupied spaces are cozy. With an available adapter, they’re great if you’re without a C-wire. This wire gives power to your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your heating and cooling system.
The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermost is one of the most often installed, since it’s a great choice for comfort, value and energy efficiency. It has all the necessary features that could save you an estimated 23% on regular heating and cooling expenses.*
Honeywell Smart Thermostat
Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally created with maximum comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to boost your comfort, whatever area you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature control at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures dramatically increase or lower or you are required to replace your air filter.
Nest Smart Thermostat
Nest smart thermostats are most known for their learning capabilities. For the first few days, you’ll set your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will set itself and develop an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Similar to other smart thermostats, you can adjust it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the opportunity to keep an eye on energy needs and receive specialized reports each month.
Emerson Smart Thermostat
If you’re not especially technologically savvy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a good place to begin. It is similar to the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but provides the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to make flexible schedules and receive alerts if something’s up with your system.
Our Professionals 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 specialists at Tri County Climate Control LLC are here to assist you. Contact us at 541-238-2797 to get started today!
*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.