Smart Thermostats: Myths vs. Facts

Because smart thermostats are a relatively new technology, there’s often confusion about what, exactly, they are. Allow us to clear up some misunderstandings.

Myth: Every thermostat is a smart thermostat.

Fact: While you may see many thermostats at your local retailers branded as “smart,” it’s important to note that not all modern-looking thermostats fit the bill. Wi-Fi or connected thermostats are thermostats that can be controlled remotely through a Wi-Fi or internet connection, and programmable thermostats can adjust home heating and cooling equipment according to a pre-set schedule—but neither are smart thermostats.

Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi enabled and have programmable functionality. They also can learn your temperature preferences and establish a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you are asleep or away.

Myth: Every smart thermostat is ENERGY STAR® certified.

Fact: Manufacturers who apply to have their products certified through the ENERGY STAR program put their products through rigorous testing to ensure they meet high performance requirements.

Myth: Smart thermostats require professional installation.

Fact: Each manufacturer provides detailed guides to help you install your new smart thermostat, all by yourself. There are also manufacturer-specific installation videos with step-by-step instructions.

We offer instant discounts on ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats from trusted brands like ecobee, Emerson, and Google Nest.

You can learn more about these thermostats’ features by using this handy comparison tool.

Shop Now

Related Blogs

Get the LED(s) Out for the Holidays

We can all work together to lower all that energy used at the end of the year as we celebrate with family and friends and parts of the earth become 50% brighter!
Read More

Focused on Focus on Energy

Why does Wisconsin have an energy efficiency/renewable energy program? What does Focus on Energy REALLY do? How does Focus on Energy work - who pays for it? These questions and more answered!
Read More

Energy, Daylight Saving, and the Farmer Myth

If there's one thing most people can agree on, it is their disdain for losing an hour every November. Even farmers hate it but get blamed for it! So, why do we change our clocks twice a year?
Read More
Join our newsletter to stay up-to-date.
Need answers? Try our Help Center. Help Center
Looking for something specific?
© 2023 Focus On Energy