A smart thermostat is a fantastic way to stay on top of your heating and cooling costs without thinking about it. The majority of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match, whether you’re at home or on the go. There’s also the additional convenience of being able to change your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on some models.

The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, usually several hundred dollars higher 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 little expense. 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 The Bay Area likely offers a rebate for buying one. You can learn if yours does by contacting them or checking their website. These rebates typically 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 get your rebate check shortly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and decreased utility expenses in the future!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? Based on independent studies conducted by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, many homeowners save between $131 and $145 annually after getting one of their devices. With those savings and your rebate, your new thermostat will pay for itself quickly.

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your The Bay Area House

There are lots of varying options and functions available now, and it can be stressful to review them all. Our HVAC specialists go over 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 solutions, like having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that makes sure your most-enjoyed rooms are comfy. With an available adapter, they’re great if you don’t have 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 popular, as it’s a great choice for comfort, value and energy savings. It includes 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 the most comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat links with smart room sensors to improve your comfort, regardless of what space you’re in. With an easy-to-use app, you’ll have temperature management at your fingertips, plus alerts if temperatures dramatically increase or lower or you should change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are legendary for their learning capacity. For the first several days, you’ll use your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will adjust itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or out. Similar to other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the opportunity 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 good place to start. It is similar to 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 create schedules that work with you and get alerts if something’s wrong 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 professionals at Contra Costa Heating & AC are here to assist you. Reach us at 510-343-9841 to get started now!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.