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

The drawback of smart thermostats is that they’re pricey, usually several hundred dollars higher than a basic programmable one. But as they’re ENERGY STAR® certified, there are ways you can have a smart thermostat for free, or for not much at all. Here’s how to do it!

Many Energy Companies Provide Rebates for Smart Thermostats

Since a smart home thermostat helps control energy waste, your energy company in Pella probably gives a rebate for installing one. You can learn if yours does by calling or checking their website. These rebates usually range from $50 to covering the whole price of the device.

To sign up, you usually print and complete a form on the website and mail it in, along with proof of purchase. Then you’ll receive your rebate check within a few weeks. It takes a little effort on your part, but the payoff is a sizable rebate and reduced utility bills in the future!

How Much Energy Do Smart Thermostats Save?

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

How to Pick the Best Smart Thermostat for Your Pella Home

There are lots of varying options and functions available now, and it can be overwhelming to research them all. Our HVAC pros go over the top models below so you can find the best smart thermostat for your home.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat

Ecobee smart thermostats have a complete range of popular options, such as having Alexa built-in for calls and music and a SmartSensor that ensures your most-enjoyed rooms are comfortable. With an available adapter, they’re ideal if you’re without a C-wire. This wire energizes your smart thermostat and ensures accurate operation of your heating and cooling system.

The Ecobee 3 Lite Smart Thermostat is one of the most popular, as it’s a great solution for comfort, value and conserving energy. It includes all the important features that could save you an estimated 23% on yearly heating and cooling costs.*

Honeywell Smart Thermostat

Honeywell smart thermostats are intuitionally made 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, plus alerts if temperatures significantly fluctuate or you need to change your air filter.

Nest Smart Thermostat

Nest smart thermostats are well-known for their learning capabilities. For the first few days, you’ll adjust your thermostat as you normally would. Then, the thermostat will set itself and create an energy-efficient schedule, whether you’re at home or gone. Similar to other smart thermostats, you can adjust it with your phone when you’re away. You’ll also have the ability to see energy consumption and have personalized reports every month.

Emerson Smart Thermostat

If you’re new to smart home technology, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat is a fantastic place to get started. It looks like the programmable thermostat that you’re comfortable with but offers the perks of remote control. With the app, you’ll be able to put together schedules that work with you and get alerts if something’s wrong with your system.

Our Pros Can Provide Support with All Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

From helping you claim valuable rebates to helping you install your new smart thermostat, our comfort specialists at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating are here to support you. Give us a call at 641-628-3621 to get started today!

*Compared to a hold of 72°F/22°C.