5 Best Smart Thermostats in 2024

When it comes to upgrading your home’s temperature control, you’re spoiled for choice. You’re likely looking for a smart thermostat that not only saves you energy but also integrates seamlessly with your existing smart home setup. You might be wondering, what are the top-rated options that balance features, price, and customer satisfaction? From budget-friendly picks with impressive energy reports to feature-rich thermostats with large displays, rest assured that your needs are about to be met. Let’s take a closer look at the top 5 smart thermostats that cater to diverse needs and budgets – and discover which one is the perfect fit for you.

ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium

  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re looking for a thermostat that can help you save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs while ensuring your home is always comfortable, the ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium is the perfect choice.

This ENERGY STAR certified thermostat is designed to optimize your energy consumption and reduce hot or cold spots in your home, thanks to its included SmartSensor.

You’ll also appreciate the built-in air quality monitor, which alerts you to poor air quality and provides tips for improvement.

With its premium materials and advanced engineering, this thermostat boasts a large, vibrant display with a cinematic interface that’s both functional and visually appealing.

Best For: Homeowners who want to save energy, optimize their home’s temperature, and integrate with their smart home devices.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient design with potential to save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs
• Advanced features like air quality monitoring, smart occupancy sensing, and customizable temperature settings
• Seamless integration with popular smart home devices and voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant

Cons:

• May require additional setup and configuration for optimal performance
• Requires an Apple home hub to enable Siri integration
• Some users may find the premium materials and design to be more expensive than other thermostat options

Google Nest Smart Thermostat for Home

  Get it now on Amazon.com

Considering your busy lifestyle, the Google Nest Smart Thermostat for Home is the best choice for you, as it can turn itself down to save energy when you leave the house, guaranteeing you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty home.

You’ll appreciate how easy it’s to install, usually taking less than 30 minutes, and control it remotely with the Google Home app on your Android or iPhone.

This ENERGY STAR certified thermostat helps you save energy and stay comfortable, and with features like Savings Finder, you’ll get suggestions to optimize your schedule for maximum efficiency.

You’ll also receive alerts if something’s not right with your HVAC system, and get reminders to make maintenance easier.

Plus, with its Wi-Fi connectivity, you can change the temperature from anywhere, and its programmable schedule confirms you’re not wasting energy when you’re not home.

With a cozy price and a 4.2-star rating from over 13,992 customers, the Google Nest Smart Thermostat for Home is a smart choice for your home.

Best For: Busy individuals who want to save energy and stay comfortable in their homes without worrying about manually adjusting the thermostat.

Pros:

• Easy to install and control remotely with the Google Home app
• ENERGY STAR certified and helps save energy with its auto-turnoff feature and programmable schedule
• Receives alerts and reminders for HVAC system maintenance and optimization

Cons:

• Requires working internet and Wi-Fi for remote control and mobile notifications
• May have initial setup issues and limited offline capabilities
• Depends on internet connectivity, which can be a drawback for some users

ecobee New Smart Thermostat Enhanced

  Get it now on Amazon.com

With its ability to save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs, the ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is an ideal choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint.

This Energy Star certified thermostat is a programmable Wi-Fi device that works seamlessly with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.

You’ll appreciate its smart features, such as automatic temperature adjustments when you’re away or sleeping, and its ability to preheat or precool your home before you arrive.

Plus, it takes humidity into account to guarantee your home always feels like the temperature you’ve set.

With easy installation and compatibility with most HVAC systems, you’ll be enjoying energy savings in no time.

Best For: Homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint, especially those with busy schedules who want to come home to a comfortable temperature.

Pros:

• Saves up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs with its Energy Star certified design
• Automates temperature adjustments when you’re away or sleeping, and preheats or precools your home before you arrive
• Compatible with popular smart home platforms and voice assistants, including Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant

Cons:

• Initial setup can be tricky for some users
• No mention of a warranty or dedicated customer support
• May require additional room sensors for optimal performance

Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat

  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat offers programmable and Wi-Fi enabled features, making it the best choice for homeowners seeking a hassle-free, energy-efficient, and Alexa-compatible temperature control solution.

With 100 years of expertise behind it, this thermostat is designed to provide you with an easy DIY installation experience, guided by a top-rated app.

The Sensi Touch 2 is also compatible with room sensors, allowing you to balance temperatures throughout your home.

Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR-certified, which means you can save about 23% on HVAC energy.

You’ll also appreciate the privacy protection, as Sensi won’t sell your personal information to third parties.

With a 4.4-star rating from 306 customers, it’s clear that this thermostat is a popular choice among homeowners.

Best For: Homeowners seeking a hassle-free, energy-efficient, and Alexa-compatible temperature control solution.

Pros:

• Programmable and Wi-Fi enabled features for easy temperature control
• Compatible with room sensors to balance temperatures throughout your home
• ENERGY STAR-certified to save about 23% on HVAC energy

Cons:

• Requires a C-wire for installation
• No batteries are included (although none are required)
• Limited customer support options

Google Nest Learning Thermostat – 3rd Generation

  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re looking for a thermostat that can learn your schedule and preferences to optimize your home’s temperature, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat – 3rd Generation is the best choice.

This smart thermostat can auto-schedule, meaning it programs itself based on your habits, and has a Home/Away Assist feature that adjusts the temperature after you leave.

You can control it remotely using the Nest app, and even use voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant.

The device also provides an Energy History report, showing you how much energy you’ve used and why, and rewards you with a Nest Leaf when you choose an energy-saving temperature.

With a 4.4-star rating from over 29,000 customers, it’s clear that this thermostat is a top pick for smart home enthusiasts.

Best For: Homeowners who want a smart thermostat that can learn their schedule and preferences to optimize their home’s temperature and save energy.

Pros:

• Auto-schedules and programs itself based on your habits and preferences
• Can be controlled remotely using the Nest app and voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant
• Provides an Energy History report and rewards energy-saving temperatures with a Nest Leaf

Cons:

• Requires a C wire for power and may require professional installation
• May take some time for the thermostat to accurately read room temperature
• Calibration procedures can be complex and require multiple steps

Factors to Consider When Choosing Smart Thermostats

When choosing a smart thermostat, you’ll want to determine several key factors to find the best fit for your needs.

You’ll need to think about the energy efficiency features that matter most to you, as well as the smart home integrations that will make your life easier.

From there, you’ll want to weigh installation and design, thermostat compatibility, and price and value to make an informed decision.

Energy Efficiency Features

Choosing a smart thermostat that’s packed with energy efficiency features is essential for maximizing your savings and minimizing your environmental footprint.

When shopping for a smart thermostat, look for one that’s ENERGY STAR certified, as it can help you save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs. Programmable scheduling features allow you to customize temperature settings and optimize energy consumption, leading to potential savings of up to $131 to $145 a year.

Some smart thermostats also come with auto-schedule features that learn your schedule and preferences to adjust the temperature accordingly, resulting in energy efficiency and cost savings.

With remote access via mobile apps, you can make adjustments to your thermostat from anywhere, reducing energy waste and optimizing energy consumption.

Additionally, some smart thermostats provide energy reports, offering valuable insights into your home’s heating and cooling patterns. These reports help you identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements.

Smart Home Integrations

You’ll also want to think about a smart thermostat’s ability to integrate with other smart devices in your home, creating a seamless and convenient experience.

This means considering thermostats that are compatible with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.

With voice control, you can adjust the temperature with just a few words.

You may also want a thermostat that integrates with other devices, such as smart lights or security systems, to create automated scenes that adjust the temperature based on your daily routines.

For example, when you leave for work, the thermostat can automatically adjust to an energy-saving mode, and when you’re on your way home, it can start warming up your house.

Look for thermostats with open APIs or partnerships with other smart device manufacturers to facilitate compatibility and flexibility.

Installation and Design

As you narrow down your options, consider the installation process, which can be a major hurdle, especially if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects.

Most smart thermostats claim to be installed in 30 minutes or less, but some may require professional installation, which can cost around $150.

Think about the thermostat’s design, which should blend seamlessly into your home’s décor. You’ll find options ranging from modern and sleek to more traditional looks.

Consider the display type and size, too – do you prefer an LCD touchscreen or a backlit display?

The build quality and materials used are also important, as you want a thermostat that will last for years to come. Look for premium materials and a durable design that can withstand daily use.

Thermostat Compatibility

When selecting a smart thermostat, you must think about compatibility with your existing HVAC system, as not all thermostats work seamlessly with every type of furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump.

Most smart thermostats are compatible with standard 24VAC HVAC systems, including furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers, PTACs, and fan coil units. However, compatibility with specific HVAC systems may vary, and some thermostats may require additional components or adapters for certain systems.

You’ll also need to contemplate the power requirements of your smart thermostat. Some models require a common wire (C-wire) to power the device, while others can operate without one, using alternative power sources or battery power.

Additionally, think about the harmony between your smart thermostat and other smart home devices and platforms, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings, and IFTTT.

Before making a purchase, it’s vital to verify the compatibility of a smart thermostat with your specific HVAC system and smart home setup. By doing so, you’ll guarantee a seamless integration and a smooth user experience.

Price and Value

Your budget takes center stage when choosing a smart thermostat, with prices ranging from around $150 to over $300, depending on the features and brand. While true that a higher price doesn’t always mean better value, some premium smart thermostats offer advanced features like multi-zone control, advanced sensors, and extended warranties that may justify the extra cost.

When evaluating the value of a smart thermostat, consider the estimated energy savings, which can range from 10% to 23% per year. You may also be eligible for rebates or incentives from utilities or governments. Additionally, factor in any additional costs for installation, maintenance, or subscription services. These expenses can add up quickly, so you must calculate the overall value of a smart thermostat based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Ultimately, the value of a smart thermostat depends on your specific situation, including the size and complexity of your HVAC system, personal comfort preferences, and the level of automation you desire. By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a smart thermostat that provides the best value for your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Smart Thermostats Be Controlled Using Voice Commands?

You’re wondering if you can control your thermostat with just your voice. Yes, you can! Many smart thermostats are compatible with popular voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, allowing you to adjust the temperature with ease.

Do Smart Thermostats Require a Hub or Bridge for Wi-Fi Connectivity?

As you step into your cozy haven, you wonder: do you need a middleman to connect your thermostat to Wi-Fi? Thankfully, most smart thermostats don’t require a hub or bridge, letting you control the temperature with ease, sans extra gadgetry.

Are Smart Thermostats Compatible With Older HVAC Systems?

You’re wondering if your older HVAC system can handle a smart thermostat. Good news: most smart thermostats are compatible with older systems, but you’ll need to check the manufacturer’s specs to guarantee a smooth integration.

Can Multiple Users Control a Single Smart Thermostat Account?

You’re the conductor of your home’s temperature orchestra, and you’re wondering if multiple maestros can lead the charge. Yes, you can share your smart thermostat account with multiple users, allowing everyone to take turns adjusting the temperature to their liking.

Do Smart Thermostats Have a Battery Backup in Case of Power Outages?

You’re wondering if your thermostat will still work during a power outage. Most smart thermostats, like the ones you’re considering, have a battery backup that kicks in during outages, so you won’t lose your temperature settings.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of this thrilling journey through the world of smart thermostats!

Now, go forth and impress your friends with your newfound thermostat expertise.

Remember, a smart thermostat isn’t just a device, it’s a status symbol – it screams ‘I’m a responsible adult who cares about the planet (and my wallet)!’

So, which one will you choose?