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5 Best Smart Thermostats

Are you looking for the best smart thermostat to control your home’s heating temperature? Then, this buying guide on “5 Best Smart Thermostats” is for you.

Many people have now adjusted to using a smart thermostat, as they look more experienced than regular thermostats.

Furthermore, they are better in terms of efficiency, comfort, and characteristics.

Also, they help minimize both your heating and cooling expenses.

This buying guide will start with an overview of the 5 best smart thermostats.

Here, I will discuss everything you need to know about a smart thermostat.

The overview section will explain this device, what it does, and how it carries out its tasks.

Moving on will be the pros and cons section.

This section will contain all the benefits and drawbacks of using a smart thermostat.

Also, this buying guide will contain features/factors to consider when buying a smart thermostat.

This section will contain all the necessary things to look at before buying a smart thermostat.

I will also give you a table of recommendations and specifications for my 5 best smart thermostats.

This will contain some highlighted features of each of the chosen thermostats.

Further, I will explain every thermostat that makes it onto this list.

Here I will explain everything about every thermostat, even giving you the individual pros and cons of the thermostats.

The frequently asked questions will be in the next section. Here, I’ll answer the popular questions about this device.

Conclusively, this will be my final and personal thoughts about smart thermometers.

This will be under the section “My Final Thought.”

Having explained what this buying guide will entail, let’s get started with an overview of the device.

5 Best Smart Thermostats: Overview

A smart thermometer is also known as a WiFi thermostat. This is a device that is in charge of controlling the heating, oxygenating, and AC systems in one’s home.

Furthermore, internet-connected devices can control this device, and people often use it for home automation.

How Does Smart Thermostat Work?

Smart thermostats function by detecting the ambient temperature in your house and then communicating with your heating and cooling systems to make the necessary adjustments following your preset schedule. 

A smart thermometer can transmit a message to the receiver to reduce the temperature. However, this is only true if it detects temperatures exceeding the predetermined limit.

A primary smart thermostat operates over WiFi, just as most advanced devices are used to control a smart home. It enables you to quickly change the temperature in any home area.

A smart thermostat allows you to access and regulate the temperature of your whole house using your smart device from anywhere, unlike a traditional thermostat, in which you use a crank or remote to adjust the room’s temperature.

Depending on your preferences and lifestyle, this offers a more effective, accessible, and user-friendly option to maintain a pleasant temperature in your house even while you’re gone.

The heater in your heating system, the thermostat’s primary control, and an application installed on your smart device all work together to make the smart thermostat function. So even when you’re away, you can change the temperature with this app.

Smart thermostats can adapt to your routine and your activities if they are more advanced. For example, it can recognize when you’re going home and set your house to the temperature you want.

Smart thermostats automatically operate to provide comfort when you’re at home since they can adjust to your routine and lifestyle.

It can automatically switch off your heating or cooling system when you leave the house.

5 Best Smart Thermostats: Pros and Cons

Pros

Reducing Energy Expenses

The most obvious justification for purchasing a smart thermostat is certainly this. There is no denying the high cost of warming and cooling a building, particularly if you reside in an area with frequent temperature changes.

Even if you’re not at home, you can arrange when your AC goes on or off throughout the day with a smart thermostat.

Your house will never be the same if you can turn the AC off for the hours you’ll not be at home and then put it back on 60 minutes before you arrive home.

The Capability Of Remotely Adjusting The Thermostat

It’s not by accident that we call thermostats “smart.” Their WiFi connection makes them appear intelligent.

Your thermostat may include an application that allows you to establish a home or company profile and begin tracking energy use via your phone, depending on the model.

Furthermore, you can accomplish this even if you’re on a trip, at work a short distance away, or just feeling lazy and not feeling like getting out of bed.

Convenient Installation

Contrary to common opinion, installing a smart thermostat is rather straightforward.

All you need to do is disconnect the power to your thermostat, replace the old one, connect the wires, attach the new thermostat panel, turn the power back on, and then follow the programming steps as indicated and outlined in your manufacturer’s instructions.

After installation, all you need to do is check your WiFi connection and follow the directions for your particular thermostat to create an account on their app.

Ensures Maintenance Is In Order

It is common knowledge that HVAC systems can be quite expensive. Therefore, the best course of action for a house or business owner is to maintain their HVAC system.

However, while wrapped up in daily life, it’s also quite easy to overlook the condition of your HVAC system. Smart thermostats will alert you if there is a problem or when your system requires repair.

Additionally, it may determine whether your system is consuming more energy than usual, indicating a problem with your HVAC system.

Cons

The Cost Of Smart Thermostats Varies

A typical digital thermostat may be purchased for as little as $30. However, most smart thermostats can be slightly more costly. For example, the price of a smart thermostat might range from $100 to $250 or more.

For some users, this price is a major barrier to admission. Even though a smart thermostat can ultimately pay for itself through power savings, it can take longer than you’d want.

Security May Be A Concern

Security is a possible issue for certain customers, as it is with everything internet-connected. Smart home appliances might be a possible entry point for hackers or rogue actors to access your network.

Most manufacturers issue patches and software updates that fix security weaknesses when they are discovered. However, a fresh danger might always emerge.

5 Best Smart Thermostats: Features and Factors To Consider

Features To Consider

Pros vs. DIY

Will you be doing the smart thermostat installation yourself? Unfortunately, not all smart thermostat models are available at your neighborhood home improvement store.

More importantly, be sure you have the necessary tools and skills before drilling a huge hole (or several) in the wall.

Categories of Technology

Some smart thermostats can effortlessly connect to the wireless network that already exists in your house. However, not all models support WiFi.

Make sure the right tools and technologies support your smart thermostat.

For example, Z-Wave-compatible thermostats will need some sort of smart home hub to connect to other electrical devices.

Mobile Access

One of the biggest features to consider is mobile access. All the smart thermometers have it. However, not every smart thermostat works with any type of mobile device.

Furthermore, some thermostats only have an application that works for iOS users, while others are only for Android users. Hence, it is best to ensure your new thermostat can work with the operating system of your smartphone or tablet.

Design

No one wants an appliance to stand out in a bad way. For example, some thermostats come in different designs. Hence, choosing which will suit your home better is your choice.

This is another thing you should consider before buying a smart thermometer.

Monthly Expenses

Most people just look at the initial and actual cost of the smart thermostat without knowing or paying attention to the fact that some manufacturers charge some expenses occasionally at intervals for remote access.

Hence, you should know all the thermostat costs together and decide if it is best for you.

Features To Consider 

Compatibility With Your Heater Or Cooling System

This is one of the most important factors when purchasing a smart thermostat. You should consider whether or not the smart thermometer you want to purchase is compatible with your HVAC system.

Furthermore, many smart thermostats can only work with a few heating and cooling systems; hence, checking this before purchasing is key.

In addition, you can check if the thermostat you want to buy is compatible with your cooling and testing systems by checking the manufacturer’s website for the models that the smart thermostat is compatible with.

Additionally, you can also confirm your research with a professional to be fully sure before buying.

Common Wire Requirement

A lot of the smart thermometers that are on the market today need a common wire to work. However, if you do not have a common wire, opting for a smart thermostat with other power sources is best.

Furthermore, some smart thermostats have an adaptor that enables you to use a common wire on your unit. Also, you can call a professional to install the wire separately.

Smart Home Merging Options

Most smart thermostat types can be connected with smart home systems and other smart appliances.

This entails connecting your thermostats with other devices, such as smart lighting or smart fans, and enabling voice control over your thermostat settings via Amazon Alexa.

For instance, if your smart thermostat and windows are interconnected, the thermostat may decide to shut off the air conditioning when it detects that the window is open.

Further, you can search for other connectivity possibilities like Google Home, SmartThings, IFTTT, or Siri.

Choose a model compatible with your favorite smart home system and its voice assistant if you desire hands-off control for convenience.

PowerVersity.com will earn a tiny commission if you purchase a product from one of the links in this article. This enables us to keep the lights on, but it does not impact the price you pay. Visit our Affiliate Disclosure page for more details.

5 Best Smart Thermostats: Comparison And Specifications

ProductsWeightProduct’s DimensionManufacturerControl TypePower Source
Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat0.85 Pounds‎3.75 x 5.88 x 1 inches‎Emerson Thermostats‎Vera, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, HomekitCorded Electric
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat1 Pound3.5 x 4.5 x 0.88 inchesHoneywell HomeIFTTT, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, IOS, AndroidAC Power Supply
Amazon Smart Thermostat0.24 Pounds3.56 x 3.56 x 0.84 inchesAmazonN/AHard-wired power adapter
Google Nest Thermostat – Smart Thermostat0.55 Pounds3.31 x 3.31 x 1.07 inchesGoogleGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa, IOS, Nest, Android‎Battery Powered
Google Nest Learning Thermostat – Programmable Smart Thermostat1 Pound3.3 x 3.3 x 1.21 inchesGoogleGoogle Assistant, Amazon Alexa, NestBattery Powered

5
Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat

Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat 
www.amazon.com

Making it to this list as the 5th best smart thermometer is the Emerson Sensi WiFi Smart Thermostat.

This smart thermometer is secure and will not reveal your information to third parties. Also, you can now save up to 23% of your energy from your HVAC.

Furthermore, this Sensi smart thermostat helps save energy with features like flexible hours, remote access, and usage reports.

Even more, this smart thermometer comes with a step-by-step installation guide to make the installation much easier. Also, this device works with HVAC equipment that is in most homes.

Additionally, common wire (c-wire) is not needed in most applications. Further, this device can monitor how your HVAC performs and how efficient it is. It does this by delivering usage reports to you.

Moreover, this smart thermometer can also tell you if there is anything wrong with your equipment and provide reminders to maintain it.

Uniquely, this device is very simple to use, as it looks and feels like a traditional thermostat. It has buttons and is about the same size as a traditional thermostat. Hence, there is no need to patch and paint your walls.

Pros

  • It is very easy to understand and use.
  • Furthermore, it comes with system alerts, a control for humidity, fan control, and so on.
  • Also, it doesn’t require a common wire for many systems.
  • This smart thermostat is very cheap and affordable despite its amazing features.
  • Uniquely, you can control this smart thermostat from anywhere using the app.
  • Additionally, it has the same dimensions as a “traditional” thermostat.
  • Even more, this smart thermostat works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, and Vera.
  • Lastly, this device comes with a warranty of 3 years.

Cons

  • Unfortunately, this device does not have automatic scheduling as one of its features.
  • Further, its features don’t include many energy management modes.
  • Lastly, it requires cloud access for control through the application, with no internet control.

4
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF WiFi Smart Color Thermostat

Honeywell Home RTH9585WF WiFi Smart Color Thermostat
Pic: Amazon

Making it to this list of 5 best smart thermostats as the 3rd runner up is the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF WiFi Smart Color Thermostat.

The WiFi Smart Color Programmable Thermostat can be customized to match your decor. Furthermore, you can now save money on your purchase by asking your energy supplier about potential energy savings incentives.

Additionally, qualifying consumers can sign up for continuous energy savings incentives through their suppliers to continue saving throughout the year.

Also, this device has flexible programming possibilities for your timetable or the peak rate pricing of the power company. Even more, the operation is made simple by the touchscreen’s brightness and readability.

Steam or Hot water, forced air, and heating systems with an electric backup don’t function when using electric baseboard heat. Uniquely, this device saves energy and gives you tips on how to save it.

Moreover, you can track your monthly usage of energy using this device. As said earlier in this buying guide, you should check the device’s and your HVAC’s compatibility before buying.

Pros

  • This smart thermostat has a full-color display that can be personalized to fit your style, with the option of selecting the color you feel is best for your home’s décor.
  • Furthermore, you can benefit from adaptability and performance using this home-automated thermostat.
  • Even more, you may even program a personalized temperature plan for each day of the week with this WiFi thermostat.
  • To operate your WiFi thermostat from anywhere at any time, select either the Total Connect Comfort app or the Resideo app.
  • You will also get intelligent notifications reminding you to update your humidifier and air filter.
  • Simple voice assistant integration allows you to use this device with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Microsoft Cortana, and more.
  • Lastly, this smart thermostat comes with a 1-year warranty.

Cons

  • This device comes without geo-fencing technology.
  • Further, it does not directly interface with other smart Honeywell devices.
  • IFTTT’s meager functionality.
  • This device lacks motion sensors that would activate your cooling and heating system if you were home outside your regular hours.

3
Amazon Smart Thermostat

Amazon Smart Thermostat
Image from Amazon

Making it to the 3rd spot on this list of 5 best smart thermostats is the Amazon Smart Thermostat.

Amazon Smart Thermostat helps you migrate from using the traditional thermostat to using the smart thermostat that can save you energy.

Furthermore, following your purchase, Amazon will provide information on possible rebates from local energy suppliers. The Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) estimates that this thermostat reduces annual energy costs by an average of $50.

Also, Alexa can update the temperature for you and configure it to keep it at a constant temperature for your convenience. You can also use the Alexa app to adjust the temperature from anywhere or let Alexa set it for you.

Moreover, you have the Alexa app to walk you through the installation procedure, Although customer assistance is always accessible.

Pros

  • This device is inexpensive.
  • Furthermore, this device can accept voice instructions from Alexa.
  • Also, it informs you about energy use.
  • It is not compulsory to preset this thermostat as it tries to figure out your routine.
  • Even more, it has very good compatibility with HVAC.
  • For settings lacking a C-wire, an adapter is provided.
  • Further, it can even give you maintenance reminders, such as a reminder to “Change the filter.”
  • Moreover, it comes with a faceplate.
  • Lastly, it comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Cons

  • Does not function with IFTTT, HomeKit, or Google Assistant.
  • Distant sensors are absent in this device.
  • Works only with Alexa.

2
Google Nest Thermostat – Smart Thermostat

Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat
www.amazon.com

Making it to the number 2 spot on the list is the Google Nest Thermostat – Smart Thermostat.

A smart thermostat for your home that is ENERGY STAR certified can help you conserve energy while maintaining comfort. 

On the Google Nest support page, you can use their online Nest Compatibility Checker to determine whether a Nest thermostat will work with your system before you buy one.

Furthermore, the Nest Thermostat is made to function without a C wire in most houses. Still, you’ll need one or another suitable power adapter for some systems, such as heating-only, cooling-only, zone-regulated, and heat pump systems.

The Nest Thermostat automatically lowers the temperature when you leave, saving you money on heating and cooling an empty house. In addition, you can easily set up an energy-saving schedule in the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.

Family members may adjust the thermostat’s setting from any location using a smartphone, computer, or tablet as a remote control.

The Savings Finder app offers changes to your schedule and searches for other ways your thermostat might help you save energy. To find out more about discounts and other methods to save on a Nest thermostat, speak to your energy supplier.

Even more, this smart thermostat with HVAC tracking keeps an eye on your cooling and heating systems and alerts you if something doesn’t seem right while also providing helpful maintenance reminders.

Your thermostat is simple to install, usually taking 30 minutes or less, and comes with everything you need. Moreover, it works with 85 percent of systems for heating and cooling.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Also, this device can help avoid and detect heating and cooling system problems early, then send you an alert.
  • It works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, iOS, Nest, and Android.
  • This device can assist you in automatically allocating your consumption to periods when energy is more affordable or greener.
  • Further, it has an easy setup that makes it simple to start promoting a better energy future from your own house.
  • Savings Finder searches for more savings opportunities and offers scheduling adjustments you may accept with a touch.
  • Lastly, it has a one-year warranty.

Cons

  • It is expensive.
  • Further, external sensors cost more to buy.

1
Google Nest Learning Thermostat – Programmable Smart Thermostat

Google Nest Learning Thermostat - Programmable Smart Thermostat
Amazon

The best smart thermostat on this list of 5 best smart thermostats is the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, – Programmable Smart Thermostat.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat adapts to you and schedules itself through Auto-Schedule. On the Google Nest support page, you may use their online Nest Compatibility Checker to see whether a Nest thermostat will work with your system before you buy one.

Also, you can now avoid cooling or heating a vacant house. Instead, after you depart, Home/Away Assist changes the temperature.

Furthermore, this device comes with an application you can use from anywhere. If you want to learn how much energy you consume and why you consume it, you can just look at your energy history.

Moreover, when you select an energy-saving temperature, the Nest Leaf emerges. It integrates with both Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control the temperature verbally.

Additionally, it has a gorgeous design, a sizable, brilliant display, and metal finishes to match any home’s decor.

Independent studies revealed that using a Nest thermostat can save heating and cooling costs by 10%, 12%, and 15%. We calculated an average annual savings of $131 to $145 based on normal energy bills.

Pros

  • A two-year guarantee is included with the Nest Learning Thermostat. However, if you get a Nest Learning Thermostat installed by a Nest Pro after purchasing it, a five-year warranty will be possible.
  • It is easy to use.
  • Further, it is now easy to recognize your peak performance times.
  • Conserve time, energy, and money.
  • Adaptive programming
  • Nest automatically keeps the fan going while turning off the air conditioning a few minutes early. Hence, your AC runs up to 30 percent less while the air remains cool.
  • You may adjust the temperature from any location, provided you have your smartphone with you.
  • Every day, Nest data on the energy consumption in your house is available under Energy History.
  • If there is a problem, such as frozen pipes from low temperatures or a broken furnace, the Nest Thermostat will notify you on your phone.

Cons

  • A massive price tag comes with Nest Thermostats.
  • Your installed system may not be suitable for The Nest.

Frequently Asked Questions On 5 Best Smart Thermostats

1. What Is The Highest Rated Thermostat?

Google Nest Learning Thermostat.

2. What Is The Best Place To Put A Wireless Thermostat?

On an interior wall, away from certain locations like bright sunlight, air ducts, your kitchen, corridors, windows, and entrances, is the best spot for your thermostat.

3. Do I Need An Electrician To Install A Smart Thermostat?

Your best choice is to correctly install and run a C-wire to your new thermostat, which necessitates the knowledge of an electrician.

4. What Happens to Smart Thermostats When Power Goes Out?

The only data the thermostat “ends up losing” when the power goes out is the time right now. The thermostat will continue its original settings and configuration as soon as the power is restored. Additionally, it will automatically rejoin the WiFi network.

5. Can Smart Thermostats Ruin Your Furnace?

The smart thermostat may short-circuit the furnace if it consumes too much power. This can eventually cause the furnace to suffer severe damage or possibly completely fail. However, older furnaces are generally always the only ones that have this issue.

My Final Thoughts On The 5 Best Smart Thermostats

With a smart thermostat, you can access and manage the temperature in your house remotely and program your heating and cooling systems to operate automatically.

It analyzes your energy use to save costs and prevent manual changes. This will save you time, effort, and a lot of hassle.

In light of this, replacing your outdated manual thermostat with a smart thermostat is unquestionably a wise choice and a worthwhile investment.

You can learn all you need to know about purchasing one of the top 5 smart thermostats from this buying guide. The Google Nest Learning Thermostat – Programmable Smart Thermostat is also my favorite smart thermostat.

However, this doesn’t imply that the other items aren’t nice. They are highly efficient.

Please complete your transaction by clicking the “Buy now on Amazon” button.

Additionally, there are just a few of each product left in stock. I thus implore you to seize this chance right away.

I hope this Powerversity buying guide meets your expectations. But, then, fill out the “Leave A Reply” form at the end of this article.

Interestingly, you may want to read other articles like this. Please visit the pages below:

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Akin-Ojo Michael Olamilekan
Akin-Ojo Michael Olamilekan
Akin-Ojo Michael Olamilekan is a technical writer at Powerversity.com. He is currently pursuing his MBBS Degree. Mike enjoys surfing the internet and listening to music. When he is not writing, he reads, sings, or practices his talking drum. Mike writes reviews, buying guides, and best-pick articles for PowerVersity.com

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