What is the best smart thermostat for saving energy?
Top Picks and Why
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is a popular choice because it learns your schedule and adjusts automatically. It also has an Eco mode that uses sensors to detect when you're away. Nest claims typical savings of 10–12% on heating and 15% on cooling, but actual savings depend on your habits and home.
The ecobee SmartThermostat comes with a remote room sensor and supports many smart home systems. It includes a follow-me feature that heats or cools the rooms you're in. Ecobee reports average savings of up to 23% on heating and cooling costs, but again, your results will vary.
Other good options include the Honeywell Home T9 and the Amazon Smart Thermostat. The Amazon model is budget-friendly and works with Alexa, but it lacks some advanced sensors. For most people, any ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostat can help reduce energy waste.
- Google Nest Learning Thermostat: Learns your schedule, includes away sensors.
- ecobee SmartThermostat: Comes with room sensor, works with many systems.
- Honeywell Home T9: Good for multi-room sensing.
- Amazon Smart Thermostat: Affordable, basic smart features.
- ENERGY STAR: Look for this certification for verified efficiency.
How They Save Energy
Smart thermostats save energy by reducing heating and cooling when you're asleep or away. They do this through scheduling, geofencing (using your phone's location), and occupancy sensors. Many also provide reports that show how much energy you've saved.
Some utilities offer rebates for installing smart thermostats, which can offset the upfront cost. Check with your utility before buying. Also, some models work better with certain HVAC systems—for example, ecobee supports multi-stage and heat pump systems well.
To maximize savings, set a schedule that matches your routine and use the eco mode when you're out. Avoid over-adjusting the temperature; a few degrees difference can add up.
- Scheduling: Automatically lowers heating/cooling when you're away.
- Geofencing: Uses phone location to set away mode.
- Occupancy sensors: Detect if anyone is home.
- Energy reports: Show your usage and savings.
- Utility rebates: May cover part of the cost.
Common mistakes
- Expecting huge savings without changing your schedule—smart thermostats save most when you let them automate setbacks.
- Buying a thermostat that isn't compatible with your HVAC system (e.g., no C-wire, or incompatible with heat pumps).
- Assuming all smart thermostats work with all smart home platforms; check compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
