What Is a Smart Thermostat?
Traditional thermostats are designed to control the heating and cooling systems in a home or other building. Smart thermostats, on the other hand, come with a variety of features and additions that allow homeowners to have more control over the temperature and set the times when the heating or cooling turns on and off. Like all thermostats 1, of course, these ones can also be turned on and off manually.
Many newer units now have sensors installed that track when the homeowner is home or which can be set to turn on or off when a smartphone is within a set perimeter. Some of them are designed to control humidifiers, dehumidifiers, fans, and other systems in a home, giving homeowners better control over the atmosphere and temperature.
Each smart thermostat is connected to and operated from an app on your smartphone. Most can be hooked up to home automation systems, such as Google Nest or Apple Homekit. Some companies offer support directly from the company, but most units are designed to be operated by the homeowner directly.
Smart Thermostat Cost by Brand
The thermostat market is becoming more and more competitive, with hundreds of devices being sold daily. Some are designed for small apartments and others for large office buildings, and each comes at a very different cost depending on the voltage and features. Although these devices have entered the market relatively recently, some brands have distinguished themselves by the quality they offer.
| Brand | Cost (Only Unit) | Total Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Honeywell | $70 - $200 | $170 - $400 |
| Wyze | $75 - $150 | $175 - $350 |
| Lux | $100 - $155 | $200 - $355 |
| Sensi | $110 - $170 | $210 - $370 |
| Nest | $110 - $230 | $210 - $430 |
| Carrier | $115 - $600 | $215 - $800 |
| Ecobee | $140 - $280 | $240 - $480 |
| ADT | $150 - $200 | $250 - $400 |
| Mysa | $130 - $240 | $240 - $450 |
| Vivint | $170 - $200 | $270 - $400 |
| Hive | $200 - $350 | $300 - $550 |
| Daikin | $300 - $800 | $400 - $1,000 |
Honeywell Smart Thermostat Installation
For a smart thermostat that costs $70 to $200 per unit and a total price of $170 to $400 for the full installation, Honeywell does an exceptional job. If you need a thermostat that comes with a plethora of features at an affordable cost, Honeywell products come with everything you may need at a price fit for your budget. However, be aware that it requires a C wire to be installed additionally. The warranty on these products from Honeywell ranges from one to two years or three to five years, depending on the specific model.
Wyze Thermostat Price
Wyze products usually range from $75 to $150, with the unit and installation clocking in at $175 to $350. These thermostats have many features, including energy usage tracking and the ability to be used with voice assistants. Wyze units have a seven-day schedule that can be controlled from within the app. It features a simple installation process and easy control of the temperature for families and guests. Additional accessories, such as backup batteries and lockbox covers, are also available. They have a one-year warranty against defects in workmanship or materials.
Lux Smart Thermostat
Lux’s products are on the more affordable side of the spectrum, coming in at $100 to $155 per unit or $200 to $355 for installation included. This is quite a bit more affordable than some other brands. To give users more control, Lux has developed a convenient LUX app that is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Their models are powered by a battery, C wire, micro-USB, or a Lux Power Bridge, work with both Alexa and Google Assistant, and are energy star certified. Typically, Lux smart thermostats will come with a three-year warranty. Professionally installed models carry a five-year warranty.
Sensi Smart Thermostat
A Sensi smart thermostat ranges from $110 to $170 for the unit, depending on the retailer and model. Adding installation brings the cost up to $210 to $370. These offer energy efficiency for a low price with energy star certification. Their products are compatible with most homes but require a C wire for cool-only, heat-only, and heat pump 2 systems. This device is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant. The smart thermostats provided by Sensi carry a three-year warranty.
Nest Smart Thermostat Installation
Nest currently has several types starting at $110 for the simpler model, while the other, more modern-looking one costs about $230. The average Google Nest thermostat cost is $170 but can range from $210 to $430 when installation is added. Nest products are the go-to thermostats for those that want to balance affordability and appearance. They come with an auto-schedule function that determines what temperatures you prefer at different times of day and then creates a schedule for you. It has simple features that those new to this type of technology will have no problem understanding and using. Most units by Nest have a two-year warranty, but the Learning Thermostat has a five-year warranty.
Carrier Smart Thermostat
A Carrier smart thermostat unit ranges in price from $115 to $600 with installation costs making the final price around $215 to $800. The brand also carries more expensive models for use in specialized multi-zone spaces. They have a sleek, modern look, are Wi-Fi compatible, and work with an app through a smartphone or tablet. Many are compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. They also have a high-resolution screen that displays the temperature and offers user functions. The majority of these thermostats come with humidity sensors and the ability to control indoor units, fan speeds, and more. Maintenance notifications are also included on the screen. The warranty on these products will be for three to five years.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Price
Ecobee’s smart thermostats cost $140 to $250 for the unit, depending on the model you choose, or you could spend $280 for a bundle that comes with three sensors. For the unit and installation, the cost will be about $240 to $480. Although the cost of the Ecobee unit and its installation may come in higher than some others, it’s one of the best units currently selling on the market. While most are designed to measure the temperature in one spot, Ecobee allows you to install sensors in multiple rooms and control the temperature in each of them. They have a three-year warranty which increases to five years through professional installation.
ADT Thermostat Cost
The total installation cost of an ADT smart thermostat will be around $250 to $400, while the units themselves are priced at $150 to $200. They can also be purchased through security packages through ADT. The Smart Package includes home automation, while the Complete Package includes smart home and video. You can set schedules for the temperature from any location and receive notifications for temperature drops to prevent frozen pipes. The thermostats are made to be compatible with most HVAC systems and heat pumps. It is also Z-Wave compatible to integrate with other smart devices. A six-month warranty is provided.
Mysa Smart Thermostat
As a specialized smart thermostat brand, Mysa focuses on combining affordability and compatibility, which is why their products cost $140 to $250 and come with unique features and additions. For a unit and installation, the final cost will be $240 to $450. Some models are compatible with both electric baseboards and electric fan-forced heaters. They do not require much adjusting to use and have an elegant design, allowing homeowners to place it anywhere in their home to blend with the interior. Mysa offers a two-year warranty for their products.
Vivint Smart Thermostat
Vivint offers a small selection of smart thermostats at a competitive price of $170 to $200. For installation in addition to the unit, homeowners can expect to pay $270 to $400. The brand’s thermostats use in-home sensors to auto-adjust each space to meet your preferences, whether you are out or in the home. In addition, the Vivint products are made to work in tandem with the brand’s smoke detectors. If there is a fire, the HVAC system is turned off to prevent the spread of flames. Vivint offers a 120-day warranty unless you sign up for Premium Service, which extends the warranty period.
Hive Smart Thermostat
The cost of a Hive smart thermostat ranges from $200 to $350, while installation brings the price to $300 to $550. The Hive thermostat is an award-winning piece of technology that works with most existing heating systems. It can be controlled using a smartphone, tablet, or voice assistant. It allows users to get alerts if heating is left on and set schedules to save on utility bills. It can also be used with Heating Plus, which is made to help lower carbon footprint and monitor heating efficiency. Hive products come with a one-year warranty.
Daikin One+ Smart Thermostat Price
A Daikin One+ smart thermostat runs from $300 to $800 per unit and a total of $400 to $1,000 for installation and the device together. They include typical heating and cooling modes and an automatic mode that keeps the home temperature within a range that the homeowner chooses. It is touch-activated to adjust and view different functions. It can monitor the air quality in the home, or you can activate away mode to ensure you use the least amount of energy possible. Daikin thermostats and other products include a 12-year warranty.
Cost to Install Smart Thermostat
The installation process starts with connecting the wires to their respective ports and affixing the mounting plate to the wall. Electricians, HVAC technicians, and handymen have the knowledge and experience to do this job the safest way, so it is recommended you hire one for the job. Most electricians charge a flat rate of $85 for small jobs, or between $40 and $120 if you agree on an hourly rate. Handymen also charge around $130 for small jobs or a $50 to $100 hourly rate. The average price for the entire process ranges from about $100 to $200 to install a typical smart thermostat. Simple installation of a standard unit may take as little as an hour, while a more complicated installation, such as installing a C wire and the thermostat, could take two to four hours. A C wire may be needed because it is the most common way to provide constant power to the thermostat by connecting it to a heating and cooling system.
Smart Thermostat Replacement Cost
If you’re replacing an existing device and your walls already have wires available for installing, the process will be pretty simple and quick. An electrician will just disconnect the old model from the mounting plate and connect the existing wires to the mounting plate of the new unit. Because replacing an existing thermostat is a relatively simple job, it would cost around $50 to $100 for an electrician to replace it with a new one.
However, if you are replacing an older model and an additional C wire installation is required, the installation will take longer and cost more. As the time extends, the installation cost would jump to $100, so the C wire installation would add $85 to $100 to the total cost, depending on the type of unit you are replacing.
Smart Thermostat Repair
Repairing a smart thermostat will range from about $110 to $300, depending on the model and repairs needed. Since additional small parts require expertise to repair, this can be more expensive than repairing a traditional unit. If a home heating or cooling system is not working correctly, it can sometimes be a problem with the thermostat. These repairs tend to be less expensive than furnace or air conditioner repairs. Minor issues, like replacing batteries or installing new breakers, run about $105 to $250. More complex issues should be done by a professional. Labor costs range from $50 to $100 an hour, plus materials or parts. Most problems with these units are rare and require simple fixes. In some cases, a large repair is not worth it since replacing the unit is less expensive.
What Is a C Wire for a Thermostat?
A C wire powers the device by providing a continuous return path for the 24V power in and out of the smart thermostat. Most units are operated through a touch screen that requires constant power input to show the temperature and air atmosphere. A C wire is frequently required for this type of thermostat to operate. If there is no C wire, an electrician will need to run one so that the unit can be installed and operated properly.
Smart Thermostat With No C Wire
Many smart thermostats need a C wire to power the internal processor, wireless connection, and display screen. However, not all units necessitate these wires, and not having one does not preclude you from using a new one. A different adapter or power source can be used. This will often be a rechargeable battery or another type of wire.
If you install a smart thermostat and do not have a C wire, there are several options. You can choose a battery-operated unit that does not require a C wire, costing around $200 to $400 with installation costs included. Some of these also come with power extenders which removes the need for a C wire. The majority of these cost about $250 to $450 with installation but require no C wire. The final option is to purchase an extender, which typically costs $10 to $20.
Smart Thermostat Compatibility
Not all smart thermostats are the same voltage. Some are designed to control only central heating and cooling systems, while you will need to look more carefully if you need one for certain systems, including baseboard and blower-type heating. The first type handles less voltage, while the latter requires more power. If you use your chosen unit to operate more than it is built for, it will burn out. Be sure to choose one that can handle the right amount of electricity, so the unit functions properly.
Smart Thermostat for High Voltage
Most smart thermostats are compatible with the most common home heating systems. Every home’s system has either high or low voltage. You will need to be sure to purchase a smart unit that works for your heating system. Most homes in North America have low voltage systems that run on 24V circuits, but one in ten homes in the U.S. still have high voltage systems. Installing one of these devices in those homes requires additional attention and electrical adjustments.
Low Voltage Smart Thermostat
For those who are energy conscious, a low voltage smart thermostat can be a good choice for the home. With these products, low voltage indicates that the device can be used at between 12V and 24V. Over an extended period, this kind of wiring will help you save money by using less energy. Low voltage thermostats can be used with electric furnaces, single state heat pumps, and multi-stage heating and cooling heat pumps. In some cases, the installation can be more extensive since up to nine wires may be used, which can create up to 20% in increased costs for the installation. This is the most common type of wiring in a home and is compatible with nearly all thermostats.
Smart Thermostat Pros and Cons
Smart thermostats are the ideal units to use to create the perfect air atmosphere in your home. You can control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in your home remotely, all while saving on utility bills. While many think that advanced technical knowledge is needed to operate this type of device, most have a pretty straightforward system that is simple to use and learn. You can program it to show and compile data daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly about the energy spending, temperature, air quality, and humidity in your home.
On the downside, they are tricky to set if multiple people live in the home. Most will change the temperature up and down during the day, which prevents the system from memorizing the correct temperature and automatically setting it in the future. Moreover, they often require professional installation and compatibility with the existing heating and cooling units, which can come at an additional cost for homeowners.
Before you purchase this type of thermostat for your home, make sure you weigh all of the pros and cons that come with having one.
Smart Thermostat vs Programmable
Although people often think they are the same, smart and programmable thermostats are different. The main difference between the two is that programmable thermostats allow you to set a preferred temperature for a set time, while smart ones can memorize your preferences over time and apply them automatically. They basically serve the same purpose, but smart devices take it a step further by providing touch screen options and automatic temperature settings.
The additional features of smart thermostats come with a show in the cost as well. Programmable thermostats can be found for as low as $110 to $350. The cost for smart ones ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the model and features.
| Type | Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Programmable | $110 - $350 |
| Smart | $200 - $500 |
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Smart Thermostat Wiring
Whether you install a new thermostat or replace an existing one, new wiring may be needed, especially if the model you install is a newer one. As we mentioned above, installing new wiring for a smart thermostat is done by a professional electrician. Electricians charge a flat rate of between $50 and $100 depending on the complexity of the job, or an hourly rate of $40 to $120 depending on the level of training of the electrician.
Additional Remote
If you want to have more control over the settings of the smart thermostat in your home, you can always purchase an additional remote. It allows you to adjust the temperature and humidity in your home from another area. A programmable or a Wi-Fi remote for a smart device costs around $40 per unit, while voice-activated remotes and sensors cost around $100 for a three-pack.
Wall Damage Repair Cost
If you replace an old unit with a new one, the old unit should first be removed so the new one can be installed. However, not all thermostats are the same size. The hole in the wall may be bigger or smaller than the unit to be mounted. Because of this, the hole must be adjusted, which is typically done by a handyman at the cost of $50 to $100 per hour.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Email alerts. Many smart thermostats can be set to send email alerts to your phone if the house temperature rises or falls out of your preset zone. You may also be notified of a system failure, power outage to the system, or if the humidity level is outside your preset range.
- Location. Always install your thermostat on an inside wall, away from heat or cold sources that may distort temperature readings.
- Best season to replace. Replace the thermostat when the HVAC system is not in use or needed if you run into issues.
- Rental homes. Landlords may benefit from smart thermostats if utilities are included in the rental because they allow you to set and access the temperature remotely.
- Qualified professionals. Not all HVAC contractors are familiar with these thermostats and how they function. Always speak to your contractor ahead of time to make sure they can assist you.
- Maintenance. Smart thermostats need little to no maintenance. However, bugs and glitches may occur. This often happens during power outages or storms. In addition, the battery could die or behave strangely. When this happens, the unit should be restarted.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to install a smart thermostat?
Most of them cost around $200 to $500 to install, including the cost of the unit and installation labor.
- Can one thermostat control two units?
Some models are designed to control multiple units in a home. Make sure to check the compatibility of the model you have chosen and consult the manufacturer or an electrician if needed.
- What is a C wire on a thermostat?
The C wire is what provides a path for the continuous 24V power to the smart thermostat. If there is no C wire, the appropriate amount of power will not enter the unit, so that it will not operate properly.
- When to replace the home thermostat?
These units don’t have a preset lifespan or a recommended time when you should replace one. The typical time is around a decade when they start showing signs of aging due to dust accumulation, damaged wires, or an outdated operating system.
- Do smart thermostats really save money?
Yes. They are designed to turn on and off at preset times or when another device is nearby. There is no unnecessary power spending for heating and cooling when the homeowner is not present.
- Do smart thermostats work without Wi-Fi?
Yes, they can operate without a Wi-Fi connection. However, its functionality will be limited to basic cooling and heating control.
- Where should a thermostat be placed in a home?
The smart thermostat should be placed in the area where you and your family spend the most time and need the temperature to be ideal. However, make sure you do not place it in a small place like a hallway because it will register the temperature only in that area. Also, placing it next to a fireplace or AC unit is not recommended. Ideally, it should be installed in a wide-open space.
- Where should a thermostat be placed in a two-story house?
Thermostats are designed to keep the entire home comfortable, when snow is on the ground, or the sunshine is heating up the outdoors. If you have a two-story home and a single unit, placing it in the right location is crucial. It should be somewhere that does not experience much temperature change, so avoid areas near windows. Since heat rises, the upstairs will be warmer than the ground floor. The best place for a thermostat is on the first floor in the middle of the house.
- Is it worth getting a smart thermostat?
For most people, a smart thermostat is an excellent investment. Technology has improved in recent years to make them more affordable, user-friendly, and intuitive. These units are more convenient, make temperature schedules easier, and provide many operational features. In addition, these thermostats provide remote access so that you can change the cooling and heating of your home from any location.
- Are smart thermostats safe?
In most cases, smart thermostats are safe to use in the average home. However, there are privacy and hacking concerns, just like smart locks and security systems. Hard-wiring the thermostat to the Internet instead of using Wi-Fi can remove many of those risks. Otherwise, a smart thermostat is no more or less safe than a traditional thermostat.
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