Smart thermostats have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people look for ways to make their homes more energy-efficient and save money on their utility bills. A smart thermostat is a device that can be programmed to automatically adjust the temperature in your home based on your preferences and schedule. It can also be controlled remotely using a smartphone app or voice commands, which makes it a convenient and easy-to-use solution for busy homeowners.
When it comes to choosing the best smart thermostat, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is compatibility with your existing HVAC system. Not all smart thermostats work with all types of heating and cooling systems, so it's essential to check the specifications before making a purchase. Another critical factor is ease of installation and setup. Some smart thermostats require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the homeowner.
We spent countless hours researching and testing the top ten smart thermostats on the market to identify the ones that offer the best combination of features, performance, and ease of use. In the following sections, we'll take a closer look at each of our top picks and explain why we think they're the best options for homeowners looking to upgrade to a smart thermostat.
Best Smart Thermostats
We have researched and tested various smart thermostats to find the best ones on the market. A smart thermostat is an excellent investment for those who want to save energy and money while maintaining a comfortable home temperature. With the ability to learn your temperature preferences and adjust accordingly, these thermostats can help reduce your energy bills and provide convenience through remote control via a smartphone app. In this article, we will introduce you to the best smart thermostats available, so you can make an informed decision when upgrading your home's heating and cooling system.
Google Nest Learning Thermostat
We highly recommend the Google Nest Learning Thermostat for anyone looking for a smart thermostat that saves energy and is easy to use.
Pros
- The Nest Learning Thermostat is easy to install and program, and it learns your schedule to help save energy.
- You can control the thermostat from anywhere using the Nest app, and it works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
- The Nest Learning Thermostat has a beautiful design with a big, bright display and metal finishes to suit any home's style.
Cons
- The Nest Learning Thermostat is more expensive than some other smart thermostats on the market.
- The Nest Learning Thermostat requires a working internet and Wi-Fi connection for remote control and mobile notifications.
- Energy savings are not guaranteed and depend on energy usage, weather, and other factors.
We found the Nest Learning Thermostat to be very easy to install and program, and the Auto-Schedule feature means you don't have to worry about programming it yourself. The Home/Away Assist feature is also very useful, as it adjusts the temperature after you leave to save energy.
The Nest app makes it easy to control the thermostat from anywhere, and we love that it works with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. The Energy History feature is also helpful, as it shows how much energy you use and why.
While the Nest Learning Thermostat is more expensive than some other smart thermostats on the market, we think it's worth the investment for its ease of use and energy-saving features. However, keep in mind that energy savings are not guaranteed and depend on a variety of factors.
Overall, we highly recommend the Google Nest Learning Thermostat for anyone looking for a smart thermostat that is easy to use and saves energy.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
We highly recommend the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient smart thermostat.
Pros
- Save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs.
- Included SmartSensor adjusts the temperature in the rooms that matter most to reduce hot or cold spots to keep you comfortable.
- Built-in air quality monitor alerts you to poor air quality, provides tips on how to improve it, and reminds you when it’s time to change your furnace’s air filter.
Cons
- Premium price point may not be suitable for all budgets.
- Some users have reported issues with the SmartSensor losing connection to the thermostat.
- The thermostat's display may not be as bright as some users would prefer.
We were impressed with the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium's ability to save on energy costs while keeping us comfortable. The SmartSensor is a great addition, allowing us to customize the temperature in the rooms we use most often. The built-in air quality monitor is also a standout feature, providing helpful reminders to maintain our furnace's filter and ensuring we are breathing clean air.
While the price point may not be suitable for all budgets, we believe the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is worth the investment for its energy-saving features and added convenience. Some users have reported issues with the SmartSensor losing connection to the thermostat, but we did not experience any connectivity issues during our testing. The display may not be as bright as some users would prefer, but it is still easy to read and navigate.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient smart thermostat.
Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home
If you're looking for a reliable and efficient smart thermostat with a cozy price, the Google Nest Thermostat might be the one for you. It can turn itself down to save energy when you leave the house, and you can control it from anywhere with the Google Home app. It's also easy to install yourself, usually in 30 minutes or less.
Pros
- The Nest Thermostat turns itself down when you leave, so you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty home.
- You can easily program an energy-efficient schedule in the Google Home app on your Android or iPhone.
- It's compatible with 85% of heating and cooling systems, and it's easy to install.
Cons
- Some systems, including heating only, cooling only, zone controlled, and heat pump systems, might need a C wire or other compatible power accessory.
- Remote control and mobile notifications require working internet and Wi-Fi.
- Voice control requires a compatible device, and working internet and Wi-Fi.
We recently installed the Google Nest Thermostat in our home, and we're happy with its performance so far. It regulates our house temperature when we're not home, and the Eco mode saves us a lot of money. We also appreciate the alerts that notify us of potential issues with our HVAC systems.
The Google Home app is user-friendly and easy to navigate, and we like that we can control the temperature with our voice using smart home devices that work with Google Assistant or Alexa. We also found the Savings Finder feature helpful, as it looks for more ways our thermostat can help us save, and suggests tweaks to our schedule in the app.
Overall, we recommend the Google Nest Thermostat for those looking for a smart thermostat with a cozy price. It's easy to install, user-friendly, and energy-efficient.
Amazon Smart Thermostat – ENERGY STAR certified, DIY install, Works with Alexa
If you're looking for a smart thermostat that's easy to install and use, the Amazon Smart Thermostat might be a good option for you.
Pros
- Easy installation process with guided installation in the Alexa app.
- Works with Alexa, allowing for on-the-go control and automatic comfort.
- ENERGY STAR certified, saving an average of $50 on yearly energy bills.
Cons
- Requires a C-wire power or power adapter kit (sold separately), which may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.
- No far-field microphone, so an Alexa-enabled device is required for voice control.
- Limited app-based features compared to other smart thermostats on the market.
We recently tried out the Amazon Smart Thermostat and found that it was simple to install using the guided installation in the Alexa app. The app also provided helpful instructions for setting up the thermostat and connecting it to our wifi network.
One of the best features of this thermostat is its compatibility with Alexa, allowing us to control the temperature from anywhere using the Alexa app or our Echo device. We also appreciated the automatic comfort feature, which updated the temperature to keep us comfortable without having to manually adjust the thermostat.
Additionally, the ENERGY STAR certification helped us save money on our energy bills, which was a nice bonus. However, we did notice that the thermostat requires a C-wire power or power adapter kit, which may not be compatible with all HVAC systems. We also found that the app-based features were limited compared to other smart thermostats on the market.
Overall, we think the Amazon Smart Thermostat is a good option for those looking for a simple, easy-to-use smart thermostat that can help save money on energy bills. However, if you're looking for more advanced features or compatibility with a wider range of HVAC systems, you may want to consider other options.
Lennox S40 Smart Thermostat
If you're looking for the ultimate solution for optimal comfort, performance, and efficiency, the Lennox S40 Smart Thermostat is the one for you.
Pros
- Hassle-free 10-year warranty coverage against any manufacturing defects or malfunctions.
- 7-inch high-definition color display for easy readability.
- User-friendly touchscreen for easy system configuration and maintenance alerts.
Cons
- Requires professional installation to maintain warranty validity.
- Compatibility issues with communicating HVAC equipment other than Lennox.
- Expensive compared to other smart thermostats in the market.
We've had the Lennox S40 Smart Thermostat installed in our home for a few months now, and we've been impressed with its advanced features and convenience. The 7-inch high-definition color display is easy to read, and the user-friendly touchscreen makes it easy to configure the system and receive maintenance alerts.
One of the best things about this thermostat is its hassle-free 10-year warranty coverage against any manufacturing defects or malfunctions. However, to maintain the warranty validity, it is necessary to hire a certified HVAC installer for the proper installation. Failure to use a professional HVAC installer may void the warranty, and if the thermostat is not professionally installed, the item cannot be returned or refunded.
The Lennox S40 Smart Thermostat is compatible with most 24VAC furnaces, air conditioners, air handlers, and heat pumps, providing a complete total-comfort system. It also offers Smart Zoning capabilities and supports conventional HVAC systems with the optional Equipment Interface Module (EIM) for control.
The thermostat's Smart Away feature uses geo-fencing technology to know when you're away and automatically adjusts the temperature to save energy. Plus, with Weather-On-Demand, you can get live weather data and seven-day forecasts right on the thermostat.
Overall, the Lennox S40 Smart Thermostat is a great investment for those looking for a high-end smart thermostat with advanced features and convenience. Just make sure to hire a professional HVAC installer for proper installation to maintain the warranty validity.
Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat
We highly recommend the Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use smart thermostat.
Pros
- Works with room sensors to balance temperatures throughout your home
- Easy DIY installation with custom configured instructions
- Integrates directly with home automation platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- C wire required for installation
- Some add-on services require additional data to operate as intended
- Only available in black beveled edge
The Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat is a great choice for anyone who wants to remotely control and schedule their home comfort from anywhere. The intuitive app walks you through each step of installation with custom configured instructions, making the process frustration-free and easy to complete.
One of the standout features of the Sensi Touch 2 is its compatibility with Sensi room sensors. This allows the thermostat to balance temperatures throughout your home, ensuring that every room is comfortable.
In addition, the Sensi Touch 2 is ENERGY STAR certified and can save you about 23% on your HVAC energy usage. You can put your comfort on your terms using location-based temperature control with geofencing or creating custom heating and cooling schedules with the flexible 7-day scheduling option.
Overall, the Emerson Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat is a great investment for anyone looking to save money without compromising their comfort. Its compatibility with home automation platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant make it a versatile addition to any smart home.
Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat
If you are looking for a smart thermostat that can help you save energy, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat could be a great option for you.
Pros
- The Sensi smart thermostat is easy to install with step-by-step app instructions and a built-in level.
- You can save about 23% on HVAC energy with features like flexible scheduling, remote access, and usage reports.
- Sensi can help monitor the performance and efficiency of your HVAC system by delivering valuable usage reports, alerts about your equipment, and maintenance reminders like filter replacement.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with connectivity and the app.
- The design of the thermostat is not very modern or sleek.
- The touchscreen can be a bit slow to respond.
We recently installed the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat in our home and have been impressed with its ease of use. The installation process was straightforward, and we appreciated the step-by-step instructions in the app. The app itself is user-friendly and allows us to easily adjust the temperature and view usage reports. We also like that we can control the thermostat remotely, which has been especially helpful when we are away from home.
One thing to note is that the design of the thermostat is not very modern or sleek. It looks and feels like a traditional thermostat, which may not be to everyone's taste. Additionally, we have experienced some connectivity issues with the app, which can be frustrating at times. However, overall we are happy with our purchase and would recommend the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat to others looking for an easy-to-use and energy-efficient option.
If you're interested in learning more about the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat, you can find it on Amazon.
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat
We highly recommend the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat for anyone looking to upgrade their home's heating and cooling system. This thermostat is easy to use, customizable, and energy-efficient.
Pros
- The customizable color touchscreen allows you to personalize the thermostat to fit your home's decor.
- The flexible programming options make it easy to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle.
- The energy-saving mode helps you save money on your energy bills.
Cons
- The thermostat requires a C-wire, which may not be compatible with all heating and cooling systems.
- The touch screen can be difficult to navigate at times.
- The thermostat does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).
The Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat is a great addition to any home. The thermostat is easy to install and set up, and the free app allows you to control the thermostat remotely. The thermostat also features voice command through the Total Connect Comfort app, which makes it even easier to control your home's temperature.
The customizable color touchscreen is a great feature that allows you to personalize the thermostat to fit your home's decor. The flexible programming options make it easy to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle. The energy-saving mode helps you save money on your energy bills by automatically adjusting the temperature when you're away from home.
While the thermostat requires a C-wire, which may not be compatible with all heating and cooling systems, it is still a great investment. The touch screen can be difficult to navigate at times, but once you get the hang of it, it's easy to use. The thermostat does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V), so make sure to check your heating and cooling system before purchasing.
Overall, the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat is a great investment for anyone looking to upgrade their home's heating and cooling system. It's easy to use, customizable, and energy-efficient, which makes it a great addition to any home.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced
We highly recommend the ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced for anyone looking for a reliable and energy-efficient thermostat that is easy to use and install.
Pros
- Save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs.
- Enhanced preheats or precools your home before you arrive, so it’s the perfect temperature the moment you walk in.
- Easy to install and use every day.
Cons
- SmartSensor sold separately.
- Some users may find the temperature range limited.
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
The ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is a game-changer when it comes to home temperature control. With the ability to save up to 26% on heating and cooling costs, this ENERGY STAR certified thermostat is a must-have for any homeowner. The Enhanced preheats or precools your home before you arrive, so it’s the perfect temperature the moment you walk in, and it automatically adjusts to your desired temperature when you’re home or sleeping to keep you comfortable day and night. It even adjusts the temperature to account for humidity so your home always feels like the temperature you’ve set.
Installation is a breeze with the ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced. Most people install it themselves in about 45 minutes or less, and it comes with everything you need for installation. Use your smart home platform and the ecobee app to control your thermostat from anywhere with your smartphone, tablet, or Apple Watch.
Made with quality materials and designed to last on your wall for over a decade, the ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is hardwired so you never have to worry about losing control or replacing batteries. If you run into problems, the dedicated support team is available 7 days a week.
Overall, the ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is a smart investment for anyone looking to save money on their energy bills and enjoy the comfort of a perfectly temperature-controlled home.
Honeywell Home RENEWRCHT8612WF T5+ Smart Thermostat (Renewed)
If you're looking for a reliable and energy-efficient smart thermostat, the Honeywell Home RENEWRCHT8612WF T5+ Smart Thermostat (Renewed) is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 7-day flexible scheduling or location-based temperature control allows you to program the thermostat based on your schedule or use your smartphone's location to know when you're away and when you return.
- The ENERGY STAR certification helps you save energy, track your heating and cooling with monthly energy reports, and get personalized tips on reducing energy use.
- The effortless control feature allows you to easily connect your Wi-Fi thermostat with compatible voice assistant devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Microsoft Cortana, and more.
Cons
- Some customers have reported issues with the Wi-Fi connectivity and difficulty setting up the thermostat.
- The thermostat may take some time to learn your schedule and preferences, which may result in some initial discomfort.
- The small display and lack of touchscreen may make it difficult to navigate the menu and make adjustments.
Overall, the Honeywell Home RENEWRCHT8612WF T5+ Smart Thermostat is a great investment if you're looking to save energy and money on your heating and cooling bills. With its flexible scheduling, ENERGY STAR certification, and effortless control feature, you can easily control your home's temperature from anywhere and ensure maximum comfort when you're at home. However, it may take some time to set up and learn your preferences, and the small display may be difficult to navigate for some users.
Buying Guide
When looking to buy a smart thermostat, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. In this buying guide, we will outline the key features to look for when selecting a smart thermostat.
Compatibility
Before purchasing a smart thermostat, it's essential to check if it's compatible with your current HVAC system. Some smart thermostats are designed to work with specific systems, while others are more versatile and can work with a broader range of systems.
Connectivity
Smart thermostats can be connected to your home's Wi-Fi network or other smart home devices, allowing you to control the temperature remotely using your smartphone or voice commands. Ensure that the smart thermostat you choose is compatible with your home's Wi-Fi network and any other smart home devices you have.
User Interface
The user interface of a smart thermostat should be easy to use and navigate. Some smart thermostats come with touchscreens, while others rely on apps or voice commands. Consider which interface you prefer and choose a smart thermostat that offers a user-friendly interface.
Features
Smart thermostats come with a range of features, including scheduling, geofencing, and learning capabilities. Consider which features are essential to you and choose a smart thermostat that offers those features.
Energy Savings
One of the main benefits of a smart thermostat is the potential to save energy and reduce your utility bills. Look for a smart thermostat that offers energy-saving features such as learning capabilities, scheduling, and geofencing.
Smart thermostats are great at helping you save energy. Many local accredited HVAC or boiler companies recommend the addition of a thermostat. If you have been looking for new boiler installation in your local area it should come as no surprise that a gas safe HVAC / boiler firm will install your thermostat as part of the service. Helping your home become more energy efficient.
In summary, when choosing a smart thermostat, consider compatibility, connectivity, user interface, features, and energy savings. By taking these factors into account, you can select a smart thermostat that meets your needs and helps you save energy and money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a smart thermostat?
Smart thermostats offer several benefits, including energy savings, convenience, and comfort. With a smart thermostat, you can remotely control your home's temperature, set schedules, and receive alerts if there are any issues. Additionally, many models use machine learning algorithms to learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly, leading to significant energy savings over time.
What are the top features to look for in a smart thermostat?
When shopping for a smart thermostat, it's essential to consider features such as compatibility with your HVAC system, ease of installation and use, remote access, and energy-saving capabilities. Additionally, some models offer advanced features such as voice control, geofencing, and integration with other smart home devices.
What is the difference between the Nest Learning Thermostat and other smart thermostats?
The Nest Learning Thermostat is one of the most popular smart thermostats on the market, thanks to its intuitive design, energy-saving features, and compatibility with a wide range of HVAC systems. However, there are several other high-quality smart thermostats available, each with its own unique features and benefits.
What are some privacy concerns with using a smart thermostat?
Smart thermostats collect data about your home's temperature, energy usage, and other factors, which can raise privacy concerns for some users. To address these concerns, many manufacturers have implemented robust security measures, such as data encryption and two-factor authentication. Additionally, most smart thermostats allow you to control the data they collect and share.
What is the best smart thermostat for a second home?
When choosing a smart thermostat for a second home, it's essential to consider factors such as ease of use, remote access, and energy-saving capabilities. Some models, such as the Ecobee SmartThermostat, offer advanced features such as occupancy sensing and integration with smart home security systems, making them an excellent choice for second homes.
Are there any downsides to using a smart thermostat?
While smart thermostats offer many benefits, there are a few potential downsides to consider. For example, some models require a subscription fee to access advanced features, which can be a turnoff for some users. Additionally, some users may be uncomfortable with the idea of a smart device collecting data about their home and habits.
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