Amazon Smart Thermostat or Wyze Thermostat: Which Budget Model is Right for You? (2024)

FAQs

Does it matter what type of thermostat I buy? ›

Keep in mind that the more sophisticated your HVAC system, the more sophisticated your thermostat will have to be. Zoned heating systems, for example, change the temperature of individual rooms at given times. If you have one of these, you'll probably need a programmable or smart thermostat.

More expensive than manual or programmable thermostats. Your HVAC equipment needs to be compatible with the thermostat to take advantage of all the features.

Thermostat Operation

The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. You can easily save energy in the winter by setting the thermostat to around 68°F to 70°F while you're awake and setting it lower while you're asleep or away from home.

Energy savings: A smart thermostat can save you a modest amount of money on your electric bills. According to ENERGY STAR, the average savings are about 8 percent, or $50 a year.

While a Wi-Fi thermostat can only make adjustments when you tell it to, a smart thermostat can learn your habits and temperature preferences over time and automatically adjust as needed.

Sensi thermostats have lower priced options, no monthly fees and include a free mobile app. Before you purchase, check online to see if you qualify for a rebate from your local utility provider. Some rebates are as high as $100, which could pay for the bulk of the thermostat price.

In simple terms, your HVAC system continues to run despite the lack of a Wi-Fi connection. How does this work? Most thermostats will maintain the current settings when the internet goes down. However, you might not be able to change or readjust the temperature settings remotely.

Because smart thermostats allow you to cool and heat as much as you need, energy isn't wasted, saving you money. On average the U.S Department of Energy estimates a smart thermostat can lower heating bills by 10 to 12 percent and cooling bills by about 15 percent annually.

Otersen said smart thermostats can cut heating and cooling bills by an average of 20% annually. That savings comes from the unit running the heat or air conditioning only when it's needed (based on those learned behaviors), and from users being able to change temperatures when they're not home.

Sensi Touch 2

It's simple, intuitive and clear and allows you to make changes easily. Some other thermostats require you to know what the particular icon means, which can add to the learning curve, but this one is easy and straightforward.

Is 78 too hot for a house? ›

According to Energy Star, it's an ideal temperature. 78 degrees keeps you fairly cool and comfortable during the day. It also shouldn't make your electric bill skyrocket. Start with your thermostat at 78.

When choosing a new thermostat, you should check to make sure that it's compatible with your HVAC system. Some thermostats are designed for specific types of HVAC systems. If a thermostat isn't compatible with your HVAC system, you should look elsewhere when upgrading this component.

To check for compatibility, you only need to know the type of heating system. The specific brand or model doesn't matter. If you don't know what type of system you have, check your manufacturer's website or contact them.

Not all thermostats are compatible with every heat source - thermostats can be designed for use with central heating only, underfloor heating only, or occasionally both. This should be the first thing you check before making a purchase.

Modern air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps feature much higher SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) and EER (energy efficiency ratio) ratings than their older counterparts, which means they draw less power to operate. You can boost your energy savings even more if you upgrade your thermostat.