A smart thermostat is a great way to stay on top of your heating and cooling bills without thinking about it. The majority of these thermostats learn your temperature preferences and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that corresponds, whether you’re at home or away. There’s also the additional convenience of being able to set your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on a few models.

The downside of smart thermostats is that they’re costly, typically several hundred dollars higher than a simple programmable one. But since 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 Provide Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Since a smart home thermostat helps rein in energy waste, your energy company in Lincoln typically provides a rebate for purchasing one. You can discover if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the total cost of the device.

To take advantage of the program, you usually print and finish a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll have your rebate check shortly. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and decreased heating and cooling costs in the future!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can a smart thermostat trim your bill? Based off of independent studies led by the popular smart thermostat manufacturer Nest, the majority of 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 rapidly.

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Lincoln Home

There are lots of differing options and functions available on the market, 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 residence.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats offer a wide range of popular options, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-occupied areas are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re fantastic if you’re without a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures correct operation of your HVAC system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most sought after, because it’s a great solution for comfort, value and energy savings. It includes all the essential features that could save you an estimated 23% on annual energy costs.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitively created with top comfort and energy savings in mind. The Honeywell T9 Smart Thermostat links with smart room sensors to enhance your comfort, no matter what area you’re in. With a simple app, you’ll have temperature control at your fingertips, in addition to alerts if temperatures significantly fluctuate or you are required to get a new air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are most known for their learning capacity. For the first few days, you’ll use your thermostat as you typically would. Then, the thermostat will set 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 gone. You’ll also have the ability to monitor energy use and receive personalized reports every month.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If you’re new to smart home technology, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a great place to begin. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but offers the pluses of remote control. With the app, you’ll be able to make flexible schedules and be notified if something’s wrong with your system.

Our Professionals Can Help with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you receive valuable rebates to helping you operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort pros at AW Heating & Air Conditioning are here to assist you. Contact us at 402-438-7992 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.