A smart thermostat is a good way to keep track of your energy costs without thinking about it. Most of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then make 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 downside of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, often several hundred dollars more than a simple programmable one. But because they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can have a smart thermostat for free, or for not much at all. Here’s how to do it!

Many Energy Companies Offer Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Because a smart home thermostat helps manage energy waste, your energy company in Lancaster typically offers a rebate for installing one. You can discover if yours does by reaching them or looking at their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the whole cost of the device.

To apply, you generally print and complete a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll receive your rebate check quickly. It doesn’t require much work, but the payoff is a large rebate and reduced utility costs later on!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can a smart thermostat save you? According to independent studies commissioned 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 fast.

How to Pick the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Lancaster Home

There are lots of varying options and functions available now, and it can be time-consuming to go over them all. Our HVAC professionals review the top models below so you can choose the best smart thermostat for your house.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a full range of popular options, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-enjoyed areas are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re fantastic if you don’t have a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures correct operation of your HVAC system.

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

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitively designed with maximum comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to improve your comfort, regardless of what room you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature supervision at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures significantly increase or lower or you are required to replace your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning functions. For the first couple of days, you’ll use your thermostat as you normally would. Then, the thermostat will program 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 out and about. You’ll also be able to keep an eye on energy needs and get individualized reports monthly.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If you’re not especially technologically savvy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a good place to start. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’ve used for years but offers the advantages of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to put together schedules that work with you and get alerts if something’s up with your system.

Our Pros Can Provide Support with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you take advantage of valuable rebates to helping you get your new smart thermostat working, our comfort specialists at Fairfield Heating & Cooling are here to support you. Reach us at 740-331-4331 to get started right away!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.