A smart thermostat is a fantastic way to keep track of your heating and cooling expenses without remembering. The majority of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then create an energy-efficient schedule that matches, whether you’re at home or gone. There’s also the added 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, often several hundred dollars more than a basic 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!

A Lot of Energy Companies Have Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Since a smart home thermostat helps control energy waste, your energy company in Houston likely provides a rebate for purchasing one. You can discover if yours does by calling or searching their website. These rebates typically range from $50 to covering the total expense 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 receive your rebate check quickly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a big rebate and lower heating and cooling expenses down the road!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

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

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Houston Home

There are many differing options and functions available now, and it can be time-consuming to research them all. Our HVAC professionals discuss the top choices below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your house.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats provide a complete range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-used areas are cozy. With an available adapter, they’re fantastic if you lack a C-wire. This wire gives power to your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your HVAC system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most often installed, because it’s a great option for comfort, value and energy savings. It includes all the important features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual utility expenses.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are instinctively created with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat links with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, regardless of what room you’re in. With an uncomplicated app, you’ll have temperature control at your fingertips, on top of alerts if temperatures drastically change or you should change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning capabilities. For the first several days, you’ll set your thermostat as normal. Then, the thermostat will program itself and make an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or out. Like other smart thermostats, you can control it with your phone when you’re gone. You’ll also have the opportunity to see energy use and have personalized reports each month.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If you’re new to smart home technology, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a good place to begin. It is similar to the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but gives the benefits of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the option to put together schedules that work with you and receive alerts if something’s up with your system.

Our Professionals Can Assist You 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 pros at Air Current AC & Heat are here to help you. Contact us at 713-322-4318 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.