HOW TO STAY COMFORTABLE WHILE MANAGING YOUR HOME’S ENERGY USE
Smart thermostats have become a popular upgrade for homeowners looking for more convenience and control over their home’s heating and cooling. If you’ve been thinking about making the switch but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone.
Many people are familiar with programmable thermostats, but smart thermostats take things a step further. Connected to your home’s Wi-Fi, they give you more control over your heating and cooling and make it easier to manage your energy use, helping you save on your energy bills.
Here’s what you need to know before buying one.
WHAT’S A SMART THERMOSTAT?
A smart thermostat connects to your home’s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to adjust your home’s temperature using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Many models can also be controlled with voice assistants or through their own mobile apps.
Some smart thermostats can even learn your daily routine over time. If you typically leave for work at the same time each morning or turn the temperature down before bed, the thermostat can begin making those adjustments automatically. Others let you create a schedule that matches your lifestyle, so your home stays comfortable without needing constant adjustments.
WHY CHOOSE A SMART THERMOSTAT?
Smart thermostats offer several advantages over traditional models, including convenience, greater control over your home’s temperature, and insights into your energy use.
CONTROL YOUR HOME’S TEMPERATURE FROM ANYWHERE
One of the biggest benefits is convenience. If you forget to lower the temperature before leaving home, you can simply adjust it from your phone. If you’re heading home earlier than expected, you can warm up or cool down your house before you arrive.
CREATE SCHEDULES THAT FIT YOUR ROUTINE
Many people also appreciate having more control over their home’s temperature. Instead of making manual adjustments throughout the day, you can set schedules that fit your routine and let the thermostat do the work.
WHAT’S GEOFENCING & HOW DOES IT WORK?
Some smart thermostats include a feature called geofencing. Using your phone’s location, the thermostat can detect when you’ve left home or when you’re on your way back. It automatically adjusts the temperature while you’re away and returns your home to your preferred setting before you return. It’s a great option if your schedule changes from day to day.
MONITOR YOUR HOME’S ENERGY USE
Some models even provide reports that show how much you’re using your heating and cooling system. These insights can help you better understand your energy use and identify opportunities to make changes.
CAN A SMART THERMOSTAT HELP LOWER ENERGY USE?
Heating and cooling can make up more than 60% of your home’s energy use, so even small improvements can have an impact.
A smart thermostat helps reduce unnecessary energy use by adjusting the the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep. Instead of running your heating and cooling system at the same temperature all day, it only uses the energy needed to keep your home comfortable when you’re there.
Keep in mind that savings will vary depending on your home, your heating and cooling system, and how you use the thermostat. Creating a schedule and using the available features consistently will help you get the most from your device.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SMART THERMOSTAT
Before buying a smart thermostat, it’s important to make sure it’s compatible with your home’s heating and cooling system. Most manufacturers provide compatibility checkers on their websites, and many retailers can help you choose the right model. If you’re planning to upgrade your heating system, consider waiting to purchase a smart thermostat to ensure compatibility.
Think about which features matter most to you. Some smart thermostats focus on simple scheduling and remote access, while others include learning capabilities, sensors that detect when you’re home, or integration with other smart home devices.
Selecting a model that’s right for you to use will make it more likely that you’ll take advantage of its energy-saving features.
WHERE CAN YOU BUY ONE?
Smart thermostats are widely available at home improvement stores, electronics retailers, and online shops. With a variety of models and price points available, it’s easy to find one that fits your home’s needs and your budget — and we can help with the cost.
Our Smart Thermostat Rebate offers a $50 rebate on an ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat. Check to see if you qualify, buy and install an eligible device, then apply for your rebate.
A SMALL UPGRADE WITH EVERYDAY BENEFITS
A smart thermostat can make everyday life a little easier while helping you manage your home’s energy use. Once it’s set up, many of its features work in the background, keeping your home comfortable without requiring constant adjustments.
If you’re ready to make the switch, learn more about our Smart Thermostat Rebate and apply online.