How You Can Get a Smart Thermostat for (Almost) Free

January 25, 2021

A smart thermostat is a good way to stay on top of your heating and cooling costs without having to do much. Most of these thermostats pick up on your temperature preferences and then create an energy-efficient schedule to match, whether you’re at home or away. There’s also the additional convenience of being able to change your thermostat with your phone or even voice controls on a few models.

The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re expensive, typically several hundred dollars higher than a basic programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can get 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 manage energy waste, your energy company in McHenry typically provides a rebate for purchasing one. You can find out if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates often range from $50 to covering the whole price of the device.

To apply, you typically print and finish a form on the website and send it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll get 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 later on!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

But just how much can you save with a smart thermostat? According to 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 fast.

How to Select the Best Smart Thermostat for Your McHenry House

There are lots of different options and functions available on the market, and it can be time-consuming to review them all. Our HVAC specialists review the top choices below so you can choose the best smart thermostat for your residence.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats provide a wide range of popular options, including having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that makes sure your most-enjoyed areas are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re ideal if you don’t have a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your HVAC system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermost is one of the most often installed, since it’s a smart solution for comfort, value and energy efficiency. It includes all the necessary features that could save you an estimated 23% on yearly utility costs.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

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

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are legendary for their learning functions. For the first several days, you’ll adjust your thermostat as you typically would. Then, the thermostat will adjust itself and develop an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or away. Similar to other smart thermostats, you can change it with your phone when you’re out and about. You’ll also have the ability to keep an eye on energy consumption and have personalized reports monthly.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If smart technology is new to you, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a fantastic place to get started. It appears to be the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but gives the advantages of remote control. With the app, you’ll have the ability to develop schedules that work around you and receive alerts if something’s wrong 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 operate your new smart thermostat, our comfort professionals at Jett's Heating & Air Inc. are here to support you. Contact us at 815-410-1128 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.