Hey Hot Stuff

Energy Savings and Control

Be the dad that can make sure not one touches the thermostat - from anywhere in the world

Latest Update 8/1/21

Topics covered
  • Central Systems
  • Room Sensors
  • Window Systems
Things to consider
  • Does your power provider offer rebates
  • Time of use power plans
  • The cost of adding smarts
Overview
Most air conditioners/heaters have the ability to keep your dwelling at a certain temperature, so what does adding smarts really buy you? Three things: energy savings, consistency, and control.

Most providers in the US offer rebates and bill credits for adding a smart thermostat to your home, so they are usually much more economical than people initially think. With tiered power structures, if you hook up your thermostat to your power company, they will turn off your A/C or heater when the grid is having load trouble, and pay you for the inconvenience. If you aren’t home for stretches of time, you are getting paid to help the power company without any discomfort!

The problem with the old thermostats is that while they do keep the temperature consistent, they only do so based on the temperature where the panel is located, and they can’t tell if people aren’t home. With the addition of temperature sensors in other rooms, smart thermostats can kick on when other rooms get too hot or cold. With the ability to connect to the internet, you can also instruct the house to switch from energy-saving mode to nice and cool as the family comes back from the beach vacation.

While most products are designed around the idea of central heat or air, many people around the world depend on window air conditioners or other “non-standard” options. Some companies have capitalized on this by trying to make smart window units, but in our experience, a temperature sensor and a smart outlet has a much better result for significantly less money. One fickle thing is fans - the dumber the better, because then the easier they are to smartify with switches or outlets.
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Black beauty

Ecobee 3 Lite

Without Alexa built in (a good thing in our view) like its big brother Ecobee 4, the 3 Lite is the leading thermostat compatible with all ecosystems. The additional sensors read the temperature and occupancy to help balance your temperature needs where and when it is needed most. It comes in one color - black.

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BUY NoW on amazon
ecobee 3 lite thumbnail
Detailed review - Ecobee
The difference between Ecobee 3, 3 Lite, and 4 is almost indistinguishable for our users based on their primary functionality and use, but we will be reviewing the 3 Lite here. We recommend avoiding the extra expense and security concerns of the 4 due to the built-in microphone, but if you are an Alexa Smart home, this is the only thermostat to get, adding a microphone to a part of the house that might not otherwise have one.

Ecobee controls most central heat and A/C units, but if you have something special you need to control, you might want to consider the 3. The sensors are fantastic in helping keep the house a constant temperature. While the sensors include motion sensors, they cannot be relied upon for lighting or other smart automations as there is a significant (power-savings) delay that is most suitable for slow changing temperature decisions. Ecobee is a learning thermostat - adjusting as it learns the occupants' patterns - which will help you save money. Overall, the look, performance, and responsiveness of the app and company cannot be beat.
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Google nest version 3

Google Nest Version 3

Nest was the first big success on the home thermostat stage, and it continues to excel under the Alphabet umbrella. While it doesn't connect to HomeKit, the inexpensive sensors and integration with the Google ecosystem are hard to beat. The premium design is sure to fit into any home.

Works with
buy now on amazon
nest 3 thermostat
Detailed review - Nest v3
Having installed the first-generation Nest before Google, then Alphabet, acquired them, we can say that Nest has only gotten better with each subsequent revision. The polished design fits into any home and makes a statement about the modern and forward-thinking mindset of the household. While the interface of the device itself can be a little clunky, the app is second to none.

With the creation of a Nest ecosystem, including carbon monoxide/smoke detectors, temperature sensors, cameras and door locks, feel confident in the fact that your Nest home isn't just great for Nest, it is great for all thermostats. If you are looking for something with just as many features but don't care how it looks, take a look at the Nest E, in our honorable mentions.
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Honorable Mentions

Honeywell thermostat
Honeywell T6 Thermostat
If you have the Honeywell Security System and don't want another app, this is a solid performer and hits a price point most people can agree with.
Works with
buy now on amazon
nestE thermostat
Nest E
The Nest E makes this Nest ecosystem is now even more approachable. All the critical features are here, but in a more economical package.
Works with
buy now on amazon
idevices thermostat
iDevices Smart Thermostat
HomeKit homes are undoubtedly aware of iDevices and their solid line of products, and the Smart Thermostat is no exception. Great price and feature set.
Works with
buy now on amazon