A smart thermostat is a great way to save money on your energy bill and have more control over your home’s temperature. But with so many different models and features on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you shop for a smart thermostat.
Your Home’s Size and Layout
A smart thermostat is only effective if it can accurately sense the temperature in your home. That means it needs to be placed in a location where it can get a good read on the ambient temperature.
If you have a large or oddly-shaped home, you may need a particularly sensitive thermostat to get an accurate reading. In some cases, you may need more than one thermostat, which may affect your budget and, the specific model you choose.
Features
Smart thermostats come with a variety of features that can make it easier to keep your home comfortable, depending on your needs.
Some models can be controlled with a mobile app, so you can adjust the temperature even when you’re not at home. This can be helpful if you want to save energy while you’re away or if you forgot to adjust the thermostat before leaving for the day.
Other models come with features like automated scheduling, which can help you save energy by pre-heating or cooling your home only when necessary. Some thermostats also come with built-in voice assistants, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, which can make it even easier to control your home’s temperature.
Compatibility
Before you buy a smart thermostat, you’ll also need to make sure it’s compatible with your home’s heating and cooling system. Many models are only compatible with certain types of HVAC systems, so it’s important to check before you purchase.
You’ll also need to make sure the thermostat you choose works with any other smart home devices you have, like a smart speaker or smart lights. Otherwise, you won’t be able to control all of your devices from one central location.
Cost
Finally, you’ll need to consider the cost of the smart thermostat itself, as well as the cost of installation. Some models are easier to install than others, but in general, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job.
You should also factor in the cost of any additional features you might want, like energy monitoring or automated scheduling. Some smart thermostats require a monthly subscription fee to access certain features, so that’s something else to keep in mind when you’re budgeting for your new device.
Most Popular Smart Thermostat Models
Now that you know what to look for in a smart thermostat, let’s take a look at some of the most popular models on the market so you can compare and contrast.
Nest Learning Thermostat
The Nest Learning Thermostat is a popular choice for its easy installation and wide compatibility with different HVAC systems. It also comes with features like energy monitoring and automated scheduling, although you’ll need to pay a monthly subscription fee to access those features.
ecobee4 Smart Thermostat
The ecobee4 is another popular choice, thanks to its easy installation and wide range of features. It comes with a built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant, as well as energy monitoring and automated scheduling. You can also control it with your mobile phone, even when you’re not at home.
Honeywell Lyric T5 Smart Thermostat
The Honeywell Lyric T5 is a good choice for those on a budget. It doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as some of the other models on this list, but it’s easy to install and compatible with most HVAC systems.
Emerson Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat
The Emerson Sensi Touch is another budget-friendly option that’s easy to install and compatible with most HVAC systems. It doesn’t have as many features as some of the other models on this list, but it does come with a mobile app so you can control it even when you’re not at home.
Let Us Help You Choose the Right Smart Thermostat
Still not sure which smart thermostat is right for you? The team of experts at Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can help you find the perfect model for your needs and budget. We can also help you with the installation process, so you can start saving money on your energy bills as soon as possible.
We’ve been providing superior air conditioning, heating, and indoor air quality services to Clifton Park homeowners like you since 2016, so you can count on us for all your HVAC needs. Contact us today for more information.
