If you have been keeping with the latest thermostat news, you might have noticed that many homeowners have started choosing “smart thermostats”. These thermostats allow for greater automation with their Wi-Fi connectivity capabilities and remote temperature control options. One well-known brand is the Nest Thermostat because of its efficient heating and cooling capabilities. If you’re considering adding a Nest thermostat (or any smart thermostat), the pros at Acree are here to help you out! Here is a guide on what a Nest thermostat is, what features it has and how it can be installed.
What Exactly is A Smart Thermostat?
Essentially, smart thermostats allow for higher efficiency and automation when it comes to controlling your home’s temperature. So, instead of physically getting up to change your temperature, you can change it from your smartphone. This remote-control feature is especially helpful when you’re not home and want to control your indoor temperature. Smart thermostats also have many other features such as sensors, maintenance reminders, energy saving reports and temperature scheduling. They make heating and cooling your home easier, more energy-efficient and even a little fun.
What Is A Nest Thermostat?
A Nest Thermostat is one of the several brands of smart thermostats available on the market. It has been regarded as a well-functioning, energy-efficient thermostat by reliable reviewers such as Consumer Reports. Because of its automation and wi-fi connectivity capabilities, Nest Thermostats can be paired with smart speakers such as Google Home and Amazon Echo.
Pros and Cons of The Nest Thermostat
Pros
- Various Features
One of the great things about the Nest Thermostat is that it has many fascinating features. It is highly adaptable—if you changed the temperature at a certain time a few days in a row, such as when you woke up, next time the Nest Thermostat will change it for you automatically. It programs itself after you use it for only a week. It can also be controlled from anywhere—simply download the Nest app and connect the thermostat to your Wi-fi. If you’re headed home from work and want your home to be cool or warm when you get home, adjust the temperature from your app. Lastly, it can also use sensors or even your phone’s location to start cooling or heating accordingly.
- Easy to Use
It’s not as complex as you might thing. The user interface of a Nest Thermostat is smooth, sleek and all options are in clear view. Its display can even light up when you walk into the room it is in!
- It Tells You How Much You Saved
You don’t have to calculate how much energy you save with a Nest Thermostat, because it will tell you. Everyday, this thermostat will show you your energy history and every month it will give you a detailed home report. You can see when you use more energy and the steps you can take to use less!
Cons
- The Price
If you’re looking for a cheaper smart thermostat, the Nest Thermostat might not be for you. It’s about $50-$100 more than other smart thermostats on the market. However, it can be argued that while the upfront cost is high, it is worth it because of the savings overtime.
- Issues with Installation
While the Nest Thermostat website says it’s an easy process and takes 30 minutes, a lot of homeowners could have issues with installation, because of the thermostat’s need for a C-Wire. This makes it little bit more different to install a smart thermostat as opposed to other, standard thermostats. Before you make the decision to install or even purchase the Nest Thermostat on your own, be sure to consult an HVAC technician.
- Does not Come with External Sensors
While Nest Sensors are great, the thermostat itself does not come with them. External sensors need to be purchased separately—they are around $40 each.
