Buying guide for Best smart thermostats
Sometimes you wake up feeling a little chilly, so you turn the heat up a few degrees to make your morning routine a little more comfortable. Ten hours later, you return to a house that is stiflingly hot. That's money you literally burned away. With a smart thermostat, that would never happen again. But how do you know which one is right for you?
The best smart thermostats are not only capable of complex programming, but they also know when you are home at an uncharacteristic time and can adapt. A smart thermostat with an app that provides you with detailed power usage reports along with money-saving tips is highly desirable. You will need one that is compatible with your current heating and cooling system, is reliable, and fits in with your home decor.
If you're ready to save money on your energy bill, you can purchase one of our favorite options. However, if you want to make the most informed choice possible, read on.
EXPERT CONSULTANT
Matt graduated from Columbia University with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering, then went on to become the founder and CEO of Computer Repair Doctor, a phone repair, computer repair, and laptop repair company with locations throughout the United States. Matt's team of tech doctors are experts in consumer electronics of all types; there is no device they can’t fix!
Matt
Consumer Electronics Expert
What makes a thermostat smart?
What makes a thermostat smart? There’s no straightforward answer to that question because each model has different features. But smart thermostats offer several (and sometimes all) of the following benefits:
Complex temperature scheduling
Learning ability: knows when you leave and return, and/or can detect if you are home at an unusual time
Humidity sensors
Remote control via Wi-Fi
Monitoring and control from virtually anywhere via app for laptop, phone, or tablet
Touchscreen control
Voice recognition (requires additional device)
Email alerts
Detailed power consumption reports and money-saving suggestions
Integration with smart home systems
When scouring the market for the best smart thermostats, we start with the most reputable manufacturers and look for models with plenty of helpful features.
We make sure all smart thermostats on our review list offer convenient settings and configuration menus that are easy to navigate and understand.
We place high value on smart thermostats with reliable companion apps that are compatible with most major smartphones.
To help readers find the right product that will keep them satisfied for years to come, we note how each smart thermostat works and how durable it is in our research.
We note how easy each smart thermostat is to install and if there are any special procedures consumers should be aware of.
We look closely at the connectivity features of the smart thermostats we review to determine how reliable their wireless connections are and how long their ranges are.
One of the most important factors we consider when evaluating smart thermostats is how “smart” they actually are and how many advanced features they offer over standard programmable thermostats.
In-depth power consumption reports and the ability to manage the unit from anywhere you have internet access are two prominent features we value when shortlisting the top smart thermostats.
When searching for great smart thermostats, we look for models that are compatible with a wide range of heating and cooling systems.
For fans of whole-home smart integration, we take into account which systems and assistants each smart thermostat works with, such as Amazon Alexa, the Apple HomeKit, and IFTTT instructions.
Considerations
Smart thermostats offer tremendous convenience, particularly with the busy lives we lead today. However, there's more to choosing the best smart thermostat than just brains.
Compatibility
There are hundreds of heating and cooling systems, and that number is multiplied by possible combinations. Although smart thermostat makers try to cover all the bases, there's always a chance of incompatibility. It's vital that your chosen model works with your home’s existing equipment.
Expert Tip
If you install the Nest in a room that sees infrequent use, it can have a hard time creating an accurate schedule.
STAFF
BestReviews
Installation
Every manufacturer claims their device is easy to install, with some offering online videos to help you. Many owners agree, saying that if you can wire a light switch, you have all the skills necessary.
However, if the power between your furnace and thermostat fluctuates—and there's a good chance it does—you'll probably suffer intermittent Wi-Fi failures. Many systems use a common wire, or “C-wire,” to ensure constant flow. If you don't currently have a C-wire, getting it fitted by an electrician can easily cost $150 or more. It’s important to find out what your current system has and what your smart thermostat needs.
"The instructions may say “easy to install,” but if in doubt, always call a qualified electrician."
STAFF
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Integration
Smart thermostats are an ideal addition to a smart home, giving you the ability to control an ever-expanding range of in-house appliances from almost anywhere. Wink Hub, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa/Echo, Vera, IFTTT, and SmartThings are just a few of the increasing number of such integrated networks.
If you're building a smart home, you'll want to investigate which smart thermostats are compatible with your network.
Reliability
Modern electronics tend to be extremely reliable. We've looked at feedback from thousands of users and found few problems. There are complaints about Wi-Fi stability and a few about confusing instructions, but there are hardly any complaints about actual functionality.
Aesthetics
Some people like a smart thermostat with a colorful touchscreen. Others prefer a less obtrusive look. Fortunately, the market offers a host of aesthetically pleasing options.
Price
Do smart thermostats save you money? Yes. If you use the technology to its fullest, you will save money on your energy bills. Some manufacturers claim that amount can be over 20%. But there are a few provisos.
There's a learning curve for getting the best from your smart thermostat. It's all too easy to simply ensure your home is at the temperature you want and not take it any further.
To really make an impact, you need to look at the feedback the thermostat generates and be proactive.
"Understanding what your smart thermostat tells you, like your usage patterns, is key to saving money."
STAFF
BestReviews
It may be a while until your initial investment is returned. Many homes have more than one thermostat, and in most cases, they will need to be individually replaced. If you've got three thermostats now, you'll need three smart thermostats.
Though there are thermostats that provide multiple sensors, there are still initial costs involved.
- The best smart thermostats on today’s market range from $120 to $250.
Is buying a smart thermostat a smart idea?
If you're happy with your current “non-smart” system, do you still need to upgrade? Here are a few things to consider:
A smart thermostat will save you money over time.
Smart thermostats allow you to make your home comfortable any time of year. You can match your heating and cooling needs to your lifestyle with remarkable precision.
Depending on the system, you can change the settings from your armchair or from the other side of the world.
Less energy consumption is better for the environment.
Tips
As with traditional thermostats, smart versions should be installed away from drafts or hot spots that can give false readings.
Wi-Fi controls your smart thermostat when you're at home. If you want to control your thermostat from across town or across the world, you need a mobile app.
Though manufactures may say it isn't necessary, a C-wire is the most reliable solution.
Voice compatible smart thermostats still need another device, like Amazon Echo, for example.
If you're concerned about younger family members adjusting settings on your smart thermostat, look for a model with password or lock-out options.
Low-cost smart thermostats offer plenty of options if you're on a budget. But if you're creating a fully integrated home, look to the higher end.
