Yes, you can install a programmable thermostat yourself. They are not difficult to install, but there are a few things you need to know before you start. Make sure you have the correct tools and materials, and follow the instructions carefully.
You can usually replace your thermostat with any other thermostat as long as it has the same voltage rating. Most thermostats these days are either 24 volt or 120 volt. You can find the voltage rating of your thermostat by looking at the back or bottom of the thermostat. If you're not sure, it's always best to check with a professional before making any changes.
If your home is more than a few decades old, then chances are that your thermostat is outdated. A new thermostat can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. But before you go out and buy a new thermostat, there are a few things you need to consider. First, what type of heating and cooling system do you have? If you have a central air system, then you’ll need a thermostat that is compatible with that system. There are many different types of thermostats on the market
There is a lot of debate on whether or not all smart thermostats need an AC wire. The main argument is that if the power goes out, the thermostat will not work and you will have to manually reset it. However, many people believe that the benefits of a smart thermostat outweigh the negatives. Smart thermostats are much more efficient than traditional thermostats and can save you money on your energy bill.
4.5/5
The Guard will fit on all medium sized 6W x 5H x 1.75D inches or smaller
Includes universal key and heavy duty lock. Key lock with inner shelf to prevent tampering. Product size: WxHxD: 6.5 x 7.5 x 2.93 inches
Protects unwanted changes to AC/Heating preferred settings. The actual casing is chemical and UV resistant which allows users to deploy their cover all year round without the slightest concern
Clear plastic cover that resists yellowing
Plastic
Installation is nearly effortless
Product dims: 6.5H x 7.5W x 3 D inches; .8 lb, interior dims: 5H x 6W x 2.75D inches. Does not fit all thermostats
Imported
$234
Compared to the image, the guards are bigger. I had anticipated finding something that was more in line with the shape of my medium-sized Honeywell thermostat because the photo said "Medium" and showed a more rectangular-shaped box. The thermostat guard that was provided and really matches the part number is a "Large" square-shaped guard. I believe that a medium-sized guard was what I, the customer, had anticipated. But what Honeywell really wanted was a protection that would suit both medium- and large-sized thermostats, which it does. Consequently, it is a sizable guard. The manufacturing quality is good. Lock works perfectly. It's not intended to be a secure vault. It is just intended to prevent most stray fingers from changing the temperature. Yes, you could just remove it off the wall if you wanted to, but if that's your issue, your customer issues are more serious.Installed, the guard looks excellent. It is not obscenely large. Installation went smoothly. It is true, as stated in other reviews, that it is not really "hinged." The top of it has tabs that snap into place, but when you unlock it, the cover actually just comes off. Since we only plan to switch the thermostat twice a year—once for heating mode and again for cooling mode—I believe it's still fine. The price is also fantastic!
4.4/5
EXTENSIVE COMPATIBILITY***: Works with the HVAC equipment found in most homes - a c-wire is required for heat-only, cool-only and heat pump systems. To check system and router compatibility, refer to our online compatibility resources at sensi.emerson.com/compatibility
GET REBATES: Find utility rebates in your area through the rebate finder at sensi.emerson.com/rebates.
SMART HOME COMPATIBLE: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit (c-wire required) and Wink smart home platforms
Named the ‘Best Value’ smart thermostat of 2017, 2018 and 2019 by USA Today’s Reviewed.com
MOST INSTALL IN 30 MINUTES OR LESS**: With step-by-step instructions and video tutorials right in the mobile app, most people install Sensi in 30 minutes or less.
CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE: Remotely control your home comfort from your smartphone or tablet using the free Sensi mobile app for Android and iOS devices.
SAVE ABOUT 23% ON HVAC ENERGY *: The ENERGY STAR certified Sensi thermostat helps you save on your HVAC energy costs, with features like geofencing, 7-day flexible scheduling, remote access and energy usage reports.
SMART ALERTS: Sensi features smart alerts to help detect extreme temperature and humidity levels in your home.
$234
This model was chosen because of the positive ratings and the lack of a c-wire requirement. Because I desired remote control, I chose to replace my 17-year-old RobertShaw thermostat (t-stat). Despite the fact that I had no expertise with AC wiring, I was scared to touch it. Since it was only a 4-wire system, I chose to install it myself instead of paying the A/C firm $90.00 to do it. without a c-wire To remove the old and then install/wire up the new t-stat, it only took me 15 minutes. It was that simple. I was able to use the Sensi app on my smartphone to connect the t-stat to my 2Ghz wifi network. Everything went without a hitch. No problems at all setting up the wifi or using the app. Everything operates as intended.T-stats modifications can be made over LTE or wifi on a mobile device. No signal delay. My wifi has been operational for a week and has never lost service.There are not many options on the wall-mounted t-stat itself. only includes settings for temperature control, wifi, and fan/auto/heat/cool. Your mobile device is used to make all other settings. Additionally, the top of the t-stat has a light button that, when touched, turns the light on for 10 seconds before turning it off. By the way, the t-stat light is off unless you press a button. Whether there is light or not, reading an LCD panel is quite simple.One of my specifications for a t-stat was that it have a difference for how long a unit will operate after reaching its target temperature. This model has a "cycle rate" of slow, medium, and fast but no changeable value. To prevent it from turning on and off too frequently, I set mine to slow. According to my infrared thermometer tests, the "slow" cycle has a discrepancy of 0.7 degrees. This seems to support what Emerson claims (actually, they say within 1 degree).Important information: Even while you are at home and connected to your local intranet, you will not be able to control the t-stat if your home loses internet access. Some systems still permit local intranet access to your devices, but this T-stat mandates cloud connectivity around-the-clock.Now that the screen is secured and your phone is the only way to unlock it, if your t-stat screen is locked and you lose internet connection, there is no way for you to make any adjustments to the wall unit. In this instance, Emerson's wall unit has a key sequence you can press to unlock the display. (FYI: You may enable the screen lock option on the t-stat to prevent others from making modifications to the wall unit.)Minor issues: It's difficult to locate and press the light switch on the top of the t-stat. I never succeeded the first time. Always feel around and press firmly at the top.One issue keeps coming up for me. I open the Sensi app and alter any preferences (temp, lock/unlock screen). You assume everything is fine because the Sensi app recognizes the setting changes. But nothing changed when I looked at the t-stat on the wall (see attached picture). Since I've had it, this has happened multiple times every day. Support was contacted, but they are not aware of any problems. My wifi signal is active in each failure, thus there are no wifi issues.After a few days of this, I understand the issue. The Sensi app itself, not the t-stat, seems to be the culprit. Despite being stuck in some way, it appears to be in use. The sync up to the t-stat resumes working if I close the program and restart it. I simply destroy the software and restart it whenever it acts in this manner. always effective I simply quit the app and restart it when I need it each time I need it to alter a configuration.The t-precision stat's is fairly accurate (within 0.5 degrees of my infrared thermometer)I adore the product overall. My t-stats are simple to regulate from either the wall or my phone. makes life now incredibly simple.Revision: 12/10/18:The product has operated perfectly. There are no WiFi connectivity issues at all. never had a connection drop. Connections through 4G LTE and wifi are always successful. Thermostat adjustments made via WiFi or 4G LTE on a mobile device take effect immediately. Additionally, the issue of the app stalling when your phone exits sleep mode was addressed in a previous version of the Sensi app. In general, everything runs smoothly. I adore this gadget since it makes controlling your air conditioning remotely so easy.
4.4/5
Named the ‘Best Overall’ smart thermostat of 2017, 2018 and 2019 by USA Today’s Reviewed.com.
COMPATIBILITY REQUIRES C-WIRE: Extensive compatibility*** with HVAC equipment found in most homes. ALL system types require a common wire (C-WIRE). To check system and router compatibility, refer to our online compatibility resources at sensi.emerson.com/compatibility
SAVE ABOUT 23% ON HVAC ENERGY*: The ENERGY STAR certified Sensi thermostat helps you save on your HVAC energy costs, with features like geofencing, 7-day flexible scheduling, remote access and energy usage reports.
SMART HOME COMPATIBLE: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and Wink smart home platforms.
CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE: Remotely control your home comfort from your smartphone or tablet using the free mobile Sensi app for Android and iOS devices.
HD TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY and ENHANCED FEATURES: Features HD touchscreen color display with backglow; and smart alerts to detect extreme temperature and humidity levels in your home.
MOST INSTALL IN 30 MINUTES OR LESS**: Use the built-in level, illuminated easy click terminals and step-by-step in-app instructions for quick DIY installation. System compatibility - Heating- 1, and 2 stages (W/E, W2), Cooling - 1 and 2 stages (Y, Y2), Heat pump - with auxiliary and emergency heat (O/B, W/E, W2), Fan- (G), Power- (C, RH, RC)
GET REBATES: Find utility rebates in your area through the rebate finder at sensi.emerson.com/rebates
$234
For a very LONG time, I have been searching for a wi-fi thermostat (like 3 years). My top features on my wish list were:— Something that seems MODERN, like a tiny cell phone attached to the wall.— The ability to remotely manage my air conditioner, which is obviously what a wi-fi thermostat is for.— Affordable cost— Simple programming— Possibly fun extra features like listening to music or reading emails.I thought about the Nest after reviewing this list, but ultimately opted against it. The screens on nests are extremely great, but I don't like how circular they are. I work from home, so I really didn't like the thought of Nest "learning" when I am away; that does not strike me as "modern" (because when I am sitting in my office working, I am not away, but Nest would probably think I was gone).I also had a look at a few other brands, but many of them already appeared dated or worn. I kept hoping someone would release a new model, but nothing ever did.I therefore wondered, "Hmm, could it be the one," when I noticed this Sensi thermostat. Well, I recently purchased two of these from my neighborhood big box home retailer (the blue one, not the orange one). The price was quite low because they just so happened to be running a 10% off offer (they were attempting to compete with Amazon's Prime day).As for the units themselves, they undoubtedly satisfied my requirement that they resemble a cell phone mounted on a wall, so check that box! Emerson refers to its cool back light feature as a "night light." If you've ever watched the movie Ex Machina, you may recall sequences where a keypad with extremely brilliant blue LED lights is displayed on the wall. That's what I've always wanted, but this place won't actually give it to me. First of all, the nightlight is very faint and emits just pure white light. There seems to have been a chance lost there; for maybe 5 cents more, they could have offered you the choice of multi-colored illumination with different brightness levels. Ho-hum, maybe that will be in the future iteration.Overall, I must say that I am VERY impressed with these. Even though the backlight isn't too bright, it's still really cool.Additionally, the screen is VERY excellent—not quite as nice as a current cell phone, but still considerably sharper and superior to other brands I've looked at.One small gripe: You can't really leave the screen on all the time. Instead, after 10 to 15 seconds, the screen will "sleep." At that time, you can either let it completely go dark or keep the screen on while only the temperature is displayed, but with a very faint screen. Some of the images I've included with my review demonstrate this; the "sleep mode" is indicated when all you can see on the screen is the number 78. Although the screen is very dim, tapping it anywhere causes it to rapidly brighten up, thus there is no real problem.Do you really need your screen to stay on when you're not using it? I don't think this is a significant concern. I don't, but the screen is so lovely that it would be preferable to give customers the choice to leave it on. They'll probably release a firmware update that includes that feature, but even if they don't, it won't be a deal-breaker.The default temperature setting did not seem to fit the temperature in my room, if I have any other criticism at all (I have other thermometers in the same room reading 84 degrees when my Sensi is displaying 78). Yes, the app has a setting for this, but you can only modify it by /- 5 degrees. I changed the setting in my case by a whole 5 degrees, but I'm not sure that's enough. This is not a life or death situation, and you can simply adjust the cooling temperature to make the space more pleasant (i.e., I used to keep my AC set to 78, but now I need to set it to 74 because the thermostat thinks the room is colder than it actually is).After considering everything, I still believe that these units deserve a solid 4.5 stars, which I'll round up to 5. If you're looking for a new thermostat, they do have a few minor flaws, but overall they offer good value (and no, they don't play music, but that wasn't a big requirement).P.S. These also integrated VERY easily with my Amazon Echo, so I can now alter the temperature with only a shout: "Alexa, set downstairs to 76 degrees." This works immediately and without a hitch. incredibly impressiveP.P.S. I have attached a ton of user-submitted photographs because I detest the absence of them. Enjoy!
4.2/5
Energy Saving: You’ll see the Nest Leaf when you choose a temperature that saves energy. It guides you in the right direction.
Auto-Schedule: No more confusing programming. It learns the temperatures you like and programs itself.
Compatible Part no.: TL284443 Compatible Models: Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen T3007ES T3008US. TL284443 Battery for Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Gen T3007ES T3008US, 380mAh
Home/Away Assist: The Nest Thermostat automatically turns itself down when you’re away to avoid heating or cooling an empty home.
Wi-Fi Thermostat: Connect the Nest Thermostat to Wi-Fi to change the temperature from your phone, tablet or laptop. Works with 95% of 24-Volt heating and cooling systems, including gas, electric, forced air, heat pump, radiant, oil, hot water, solar and geothermal
Works with Amazon Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately)
Smart Thermostat: Early-On Nest learns how your home warms up and keeps an eye on the weather to get you the temperature you want when you want it.
$234
I was at first proud of my nest. I discovered several nice capabilities as I continued to explore it. After two months, the issues then started. My house is in northern Michigan, which has a cooler climate. While in Florida, I looked at the status of my nest. The temperature was rapidly decreasing and the nest was not making any calls for heat. I called the Nest technicians, who were friendly and supportive. I don't have a heat pump, but they claimed that my nest was wired for one. Simply impossible In order to chill the house, the nest actually called my air conditioner. I was fortunate to find a heating contractor that could fix it who was highly knowledgeable about Nest. The nest was correctly wired, but when wiring was checked via wi-fi, it might have been wired incorrectly for a heat pump. The nest was taken down and rebuilt. Now works as it should. Although it is mentioned on their website, the tech claimed they have never encountered this error before. I requested a replacement, and they delivered it without delay. I'm now asking for payment for the high-priced contractor services I provided. If they stand behind their goods, this will be a good test. We'll find out.After a month, Nest paid me back for the furnace technician visit. They are trustworthy. Good to see you today.
4.2/5
Optional power adapter included - Wi-Fi thermostats typically require extra power via a "C" wire. Many homes lack this wire, so this adapter gives you a simple, low-voltage alternative. It's easy to install and fits discreetly near your heating and cooling system. Extra power via a “C†wire. Many homes lack this wire, so this adapter gives you a simple, low Voltage alternative. It's easy to install and fits discreetly near your heating and cooling system
Fan operation* custom Fan settings to circulate more or less air, as needed, to keep air moving throughout your home. Fan control dependent on wiring configuration
Energy Star certified
Smart alerts - push notifications remind you to change your filter and warn you of extreme indoor temperatures
Auto change from heat to cool - automatically determines If your home needs heating or cooling to provide maximum comfort
7-day flexible scheduling or location based temperature control - it’s your choice. 7-day scheduling programs your thermostat. Geofence technology helps make you comfortable by using your smartphone's location to know when you're away and when you return. Programs your thermostat. Geofence technology helps make you comfortable by using your smartphone’s location to know when you’re away and when you return
$234
I bought this to replace my Nest Gen 2 so that it would work with HomeKit and Siri.The Geofencing and Siri voice commands are my two favorite features. It is less visually appealing than the Nest, however the learning feature of the Nest increased my utility costs. The Lyric geofencing is a far superior answer because our lifestyle was never consistent. On this, scheduling is also SO MUCH EASIER. This beats the Nest if you own Apple items. The Ecobee also had a nice appearance, but I am much satisfied with this.I had intended to give my in-laws the Nest, but I'm thinking I'll sell it on eBay instead and get them this for less.
4.2/5
SAVE MONEY: Homeowners save up to 23% annually on heating or cooling costs, plus ecobee pays for itself in under 2 years (compared to a hold of 72 degrees)
EASILY INSTALL YOURSELF: It only takes about 30 minutes, thanks to an easy to follow installation guide and an in-app step-by-step walkthrough. Everything you need comes in the box, including a Power Extender Kit for homes with no common wire (C-wire)
PLAYS WELL WITH OTHERS: ecobee3 lite works with your favorite smart home setups, including Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, Samsung SmartThings, Wink, and IFTTT.Power Source: AC. Contact Manufacture for any assistance - contact in user manual
WORKS WITH ROOM SENSORS: Place them in the rooms that matter the most and have the temperature balanced throughout your whole home. Measuring both occupancy and temperature, sensors signal your ecobee Smart Thermostat to automatically switch to the right mode for comfort when you’re home or for savings when you’re not. 2-pack sold separately.
CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE: Easily adjust your thermostat from wherever you are using your iOS (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch) or Android device. The ecobee mobile app is available in the App Store or on Google Play. Compatibility- Gas, oil, electric, dual fuel, Conventional (2H/2C), Heat Pump (4H/2C)
$234
Our house has two HVAC systems. Over ten years ago, I installed home automation-controlled statistics, but that outdated technology was no longer working. I looked into Nest, EcoBee, and other brands. I made the decision to purchase this model with remote sensors after reading the reviews (to experiment with the sensors to see if they were useful).Pros,1. Installation was quite simple because of the excellent documentation.2-Aesthetics: I prefer their shape to the Nest's spherical design. The displays are brilliant, auto-dim, and wake up when you approach them (also a con in my book).3-Easy connection to home WiFi; you enter your location to see the weather and outside temperature there.4-Nice thermostat-checking and -adjustment apps are available for the iPhone and Apple Watch. To save energy and stay comfortable, there is an easy-to-use screen where you can set the temperatures for wake, away, sleep, etc.5-Alexa connectivity, allowing you to ask the virtual assistant to "Tell Ecobee to set the Bedrooms to 71 degrees"Six remote sensors were employed, one for each thermostat, and positioned in related rooms. They appear to help the thermostats run the HVAC fans as necessary to more effectively average the room temperatures.Cons1. I dislike the auto-wake display because it can't be turned off or changed in the settings. The thermostat is set to display the current room temperature, outdoor temperature, and a weather symbol (like sun, clouds, rain etc.). I really appreciate this, and I often glance at the numbers as I pass the thermostats in the kitchen and hallway. The problem is that as soon as I approach the thermostat, the display switches to the current set temperature and displays a "slider" that lets me adjust the thermostat settings. I don't often want to change things, thus I would get annoyed every time I passed these units and wanted to check the weather because they would always run away! I came up with a simple solution: the thermostat face has an infrared LED in the upper left corner that bounces off you to turn on when you approach it. I used a hole punch to create a 1/4-inch hole in a black sticker "Disc sticker in black In order to see the LED in the top left corner of the EcoBee's black face, I used a flashlight "Over it is a black sticker. Now, the resting display always displays what I want it to, and if I need to make any additional adjustments, I can just touch the screen to bring up the adjust screen. Simple fix!These units have not caused me any more problems. It's winter here, so I can't comment on AC performance just yet, but I enjoy how compact they are and how well they handle our heating.
4.1/5
One program for weekdays, a separate program for weekends-4 periods per day
Compatible with heating, cooling and heat pumps without auxiliary heat, Does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V) OR multistage HVAC systems
N/A
Display options: Fahrenheit or Celsius temperature display, 12 or 24 hour clock
Imported
Backlit digital display
Accurate temperature control of +/-1-Degree F for consistent comfort
$234
The thermostat in my apartment has "gone kaput," so I chose to replace it myself with my landlord's OK. When I told him it would only cost $25, he gave me the go-ahead.I was able to easily name the wires using the given label sheet and re-connect them to this new Honeywell unit because the directions were very clear and the previous device I was detaching had its terminals indicated.This device has a few characteristics that prevent me from rating it five stars. To begin with, the internal clips that hold the middle plastic panel to the front panel are shoddyly made. They are difficult to fasten. After I placed the thermostat, it was 80 degrees (F) for at least a half-hour. No, I didn't leave the package outside in the hot weather before bringing it inside. Eventually, compared to several meat/brewing thermometers I had lying around, it indicated the appropriate ambient temperature. Last but not least, there appears to be factory-generated dust or dirt in the lower-right corner of the LCD panel. None of these problems affect the unit's functionality, but they serve as a stark reminder of how inexpensive it is. Shrug.In the end, I had no trouble installing it, and my heater—a hydronic/radiant heater, for those who are still waiting—runs without a hitch.
4.1/5
Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT, Bonomi, Wink, and Stringy (devices sold separately)
Ability to view local weather from web portal or app, Wink App Ready - No Wink Hub Required.
See Product Manuals below in “Technical Specification†for more information.
“Compatibility is Required†Works with virtually any system type except electric baseboards. But Please Note: C-Wire is required for this thermostat to receive power. If you do not have a C-wire, you may be able to use the C-Wire adapter (sold separately) or a G-wire jumper cable which is included with this thermostat. Use of the G-wire jumper cable will allow you to power the thermostat without a C-Wire; however using the G-wire solution means that you will no longer have independent fan control, although the fan will still run while your system is on.
In the box you will find: Thermostat, Wall plate (attached to thermostat), Screws and anchors, Quick Start Guide, Thermostat ID Card, Wire labels, User Guide, Quick Reference Card, G Wire Jumper Cable.
ENERGY STAR certified
Wi-Fi enabled thermostat allows for remote access via smart-phone or computer, free smart-phone app for iPhone, iPad and Android operating systems.
7 day programming with 4 program periods per day can be configured to meet almost any scheduling scenario for ultimate flexibility.
$234
Although the setup and configuration are simple to follow, the wifi configuration was the problem I had. It took a couple days of email correspondence before Honeywell support called. The problem was that the thermostat router connected via pjone's mobile hotspot, even though it detects my 2.4 GHz wifi as an open connection even if it is password protected. Eventually, I came across a six-year-old thread stating that Honeywell thermostat wifi connections fail if the id name and password are thirteen characters or greater. After changing the id name and password to comply with this restriction, the setup was successful. I emailed Honeywell about this and asked them to either update their firmware to accommodate longer names and passwords or make that information clear in their setup instructions.
4.1/5
Check to see If your new thermostat qualifies for a utility rebate; Auto-updates for daylight savings; adjusts for 12/24-hour and multi-language needs
Receive intelligent alerts like air filter change reminders, humidifier pad replacement reminders, high/low temperature warnings, and status of internet connection
Flexible programming options available based your home or small business schedule, or based on your utility ; s peak rate pricing through their demand response programs
Customizable touchscreen in full Color with easy to read numbers and text, view your local weather including indoor and outdoor relative humidity levels
Compatible with: Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, Google Home, IFTTT
$234
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3.6/5
BUILT-IN ALEXA: Control your thermostat using your voice with built-in Alexa. Ask to play music, hear the news, set a timer, adjust the temperature, and so much more. Wifi connectivity is ieee 802.11 b/g/n at 2.4 GHz. Tip-make sure your HVAC panel is fully closed. Some systems will not turn on if the cover panel has not been closed properly.Voltage Type:Line Voltage
EASILY INSTALL YOURSELF: It only takes about 30 minutes, thanks to an easy to follow installation guide and an in-app step-by-step walkthrough. Everything you need comes in the box, including a Power Extender Kit for homes with no common wire (C-wire). Compatibility- Gas, oil, electric, dual fuel, Conventional (2H/2C), Heat Pump (4H/2C), Humidifier, Dehumidifier, Ventilator, HRV or ERV
SAVE MONEY: Homeowners save up to 23% annually on heating or cooling costs, plus ecobee pays for itself in under 2 years (compared to a hold of 72 degrees).
ROOM SENSORS: Place them in the rooms that matter the most and have the temperature balanced throughout your whole home. Measuring both occupancy and temperature, sensors signal your ecobee Smart Thermostat to automatically switch to the right mode for comfort when you’re home or for savings when you’re not. One Room Sensor included, 2-pack sold separately
CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE: Easily adjust your thermostat from wherever you are using your iOS (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch) or Android device. The ecobee mobile app is available in the App Store or on Google Play. Works with: Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, IFTTT and more.
$234
I discovered a lot after experimenting with and using a different popular smart thermostat in my house. The most crucial aspect was that, despite its simplicity, the thermostat that came with my home's HVAC system operated as intended for the fundamental tasks. My first smart gadget came with a ton of brand-new features and capabilities, but in practice, managing a daily routine for heating and cooling my home actually became more difficult and, in some ways, did not become any better.I was an early adopter of ecobee's solution, which included zone sensors and looked like a smart concept for my multi-level, open-architecture home. But once more, there have been occasions in real life where a more advanced system has created brand-new issues. It took me several weeks to get things under control, and even now, using my HVAC system is less automatic than it was when I had a straightforward programmed thermostat.The ability to control my HVAC system from my phone, whether or not I am at home, was one of the clever features that I came to appreciate. In some respects, this feature has taken over as the main benefit of owning a smart thermostat. However, there was undoubtedly area for improvement, one of which was a closer interaction with Alexa/Echo to enable more automation and simpler control, particularly via voice.I've had Echo sensors at the two locations in my house where I spend the most time (there are now three), and they're "connected" to my Ecobee. However, the newest, most recent version goes a step further and incorporates an Echo into the hardware of the thermostat. One benefit is obvious: typically, our thermostats are not placed close to where it would make sense to plug in an Echo. The thermostat in my instance is located on a wall between the beds on the landing of a staircase, the last location I'd ever put an Echo. I can simply speak to my thermostat as I go by thanks to Alexa's voice control being available there. It would have been good if the remote sensors functioned as little Echos with microphones in each as the included remote sensor of my thermostat is situated in an open space between my kitchen, dining room, and living area, a site I am extremely unlikely to plug in an Echo. Let's put that as the first suggested improvement since they don't.At the very least, owning this device provided me the majority of the features of having another Echo, which can be far less expensive than purchasing more Echo devices (I already had two Dots).POINTS TO NOTE ABOUT ECOBEEIf you are unfamiliar with the idea of smart thermostats, here is a summary of what they are before discussing features (and differences):- The Ecobee not only activates your air conditioning when it's hot and your heating when it's cold, but it also communicates in real-time (through the internet) with your local weather service to know what's happening both inside and outside your house.Its main distinction is the ability to install sensors in various areas of your home, which not only aids in balancing the effective use of heating and cooling but also detects which room you are in and controls your preferences for that room, not the entire house. It is even aware of your departure times for work, sleep, and vacation- The most recent innovation, Alexa control, enables you to use the thermostat as a timer, read the news, turn on and off lights, play music, and perform approximately 10,000 other "skills". Of course, in order to accomplish part of that, you'll need a number of other accessories.- From anywhere in the world, you may use a smartphone to check and adjust the temperature of your HVAC system. This is my top reason for liking the system, in my opinion.- Over time, the software compiles use records that might be useful for controlling your energy use to achieve maximum economy.THOUGHTS AND ACTIONSLet's start with the main criticism of prior iterations, which was that heat pumps didn't operate well with them. That is most likely a result of the company's location, where heat pumps aren't extremely widespread. When I first got mine, I spent hours on the phone with the tech support staff (I have to give them credit, their tech support was great). They sent a qualified tech out to finish the installation for me because they really couldn't fix it over the phone. This would have been a big disadvantage for smart thermostats compared to installing an outdated mechanical thermostat by connecting two wires and turning it on, but I was understanding because we were working with cutting-edge technology. The good news is that the new model's installation went well, and it seemed to understand exactly what HVAC equipment I have and adjust itself properly.WHAT IS DIFFERENT BETWEEN THE ECOBEE 3 AND ECOBEE 4?- The new model is substantially larger in all respects.The former design was essentially square with rounded edges; the new model is halfway between a square and a circle. - The new model is "rounder"- The new model is significantly thicker and protrudes almost twice as far from the wall.- The face of the new model is entirely flat, as opposed to the face of the earlier design, which was somewhat convex like the face of a clock. Less glare on the screen and faster touch-activation of the icons without unintentionally brushing against the wrong one are two benefits of a flat face.- A redesign of the fake button was made. Although it appears to be a push button in the previous design, the ostensible button is actually a sensor. The manufacturer makes no mention of it in their instructions, and from what I've read, consumers frequently complained about trying to poke it and getting nothing in return.- The Alexa/Echo controls now have a second faceplate icon.A different mounting plate is what screws to the wall and is where the wiring from your HVAC system attach. The thermostat faceplate then simply snaps onto the mounting plate. An awkward two-piece mounting plate was part of the previous design. The freshly created plate is one piece, not two, and significantly smaller. Important: For some reason, the wiring terminal locations have been changed. Read each terminal label carefully if you're replacing an older model with the new one because they're not in the same place. To attach the thermostat so that it doesn't lean to one side or the other on your wall, the mounting plate still features a tiny built-in bubble level.- A different remote room sensor is depicted on the retail box than what is actually inside. I'm trying to get an explanation for this one because the packaging shows a newly redesigned room sensor that is more attractive and does away with the aforementioned faux button, but what is actually in the box is the old sensor. Simply because I was testing a new unit could account for this. By the way, you can use a little acrylic base to fix the remote sensor to your wall or set it down on a desk or tabletop.- The thermostat now has a blue LED light bar on top, although most people can only see the glow from it on their wall when the thermostat is installed at the standard height. My second recommendation is that the light on the thermostat's bottom might have doubled as a path light when a person is detected by the motion sensor (I adore this feature on my Nest smoke alarm). It's situated at the top of my staircase, and at night, as someone passes under it, a soft nightlight turns on to illuminate the first few steps.- Staying on the subject of that blue light, I find it quite disturbing that whenever the auto-voice recognition microphone on the thermostat's main unit is switched off for any reason, the light changes to a bright red color. It appears to be alerting me to a dangerous situation (turning the microphone off is not a danger situation to me). Please make the third suggestion so that the LED light can be turned off!- And, of course, built-in Amazon Alexa (a few words on that later in this review)The Power Extender Kit (PEK) has undergone a complete makeover, featuring larger connections, larger buttons to clamp the wires, and a convenient magnet on the back to attach it to the inside of your HVAC main unit. Thoughtful.Redesigned back trim panel; usage of this trim plate to conceal screw holes or unpainted walls behind your old thermostat is optional. The major benefit of the new design is that the opening in the back for the wires to flow through is considerably smaller. This means that less air from within your wall may rush through and impair the accuracy of the thermostat. The new design is rounder, which some people may appreciate.- There is no method to store your settings when you upgrade from a prior model. This issue only affects people who are doing so, but it is a missed opportunity for the manufacturer.
If you are installing a new thermostat or replacing an old one, you will need to hire an electrician to do the job. This is because thermostats are wired to your home’s electrical system and require a professional to connect them. While you may be able to save some money by doing the job yourself, it is not worth the risk of electrical shock or damage to your home.
If you need to change your thermostat, you will most likely need to turn off the power to it first. To do this, you will need to find your circuit breaker box and flip the switch that corresponds to your thermostat. Once the power is off, you can go ahead and change your thermostat.
It is not difficult to replace a thermostat. The most difficult part is finding the right replacement thermostat. Once you have the replacement, the process is simple.
If your home isn't heating or cooling evenly, if the temperature isn't consistent from room to room, or if your energy bills have gone up without explanation, it might be time for a new thermostat. Other signs that you might need a new thermostat include physical damage to the device or corrosion around the batteries.
Programmable thermostats can cost anywhere from $15-$100, depending on the features and quality. Many programmable thermostats will allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day and days of the week, which can help you save money on your energy bill.
How often should you change your home thermostat? The U.S. Department of Energy recommends changing your home thermostat every three to five years.
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