A smart thermostat is a good way to manage your utility expenses without remembering. Most of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match, whether you’re at home or away. 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 pricey, often several hundred dollars higher than a simple programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can have a smart thermostat for free, or at very little cost. Here’s how to do it!

Most Energy Companies Have Rebates for Smart Thermostats

As a smart home thermostat helps rein in energy waste, your energy company in Alice probably offers a rebate for purchasing one. You can learn if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the entire price of the device.

To sign up, you typically print and fill out a form on the website and send 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 large rebate and decreased heating and cooling bills later on!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? According to independent studies commissioned by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, most homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after getting one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your modern thermostat will pay for itself rapidly.

How to Choose the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Alice House

There are many different options and functions available today, and it can be overwhelming to go over them all. Our HVAC professionals review the top brands below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your house.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a full range of popular solutions, like having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-occupied spaces are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re great if you’re without a C-wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat and ensures accurate 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 efficiency. It has all the essential features that could save you an estimated 23% on yearly heating and cooling bills.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are instinctively made with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat partners with smart room sensors to improve your comfort, whatever space you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature management at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures dramatically change or you should get a new air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning functions. For the first few days, you’ll use your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will adjust itself and develop an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Like other smart thermostats, you can control it with your phone when you’re out and about. You’ll also have the ability to keep an eye on energy use and have individualized 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 start. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you know how to use but offers the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll be able to make schedules that work with you and receive alerts if something’s suspect with your system.

Our Pros Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you take advantage of valuable rebates to helping you operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at Rescue Heating & Air are here to support you. Contact us at 361-265-4371 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.