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The ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium is a feature-rich thermostat that aims to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. One of its standout features is its compatibility with various smart home systems like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, making it easy to control with your voice. It also works with a wide range of HVAC systems, and even if your home doesn’t have a C-Wire, the included Power Extender Kit helps with easy installation. This makes it a versatile choice for many households.
Programmability is another strong point, as you can set schedules to optimize heating and cooling, potentially saving up to 26% on yearly energy costs. The included SmartSensor helps ensure the most important rooms in your home stay comfortable by adjusting temperatures to reduce hot or cold spots. The built-in air quality monitor is a unique feature that alerts you to poor air quality and reminds you to change your air filter, adding an extra layer of convenience and health benefits. The user interface is another highlight, featuring a large, vibrant display that is easy to navigate and visually appealing.
On the downside, some advanced features like smoke alarm detection and break-in alerts require a subscription to the ecobee Smart Security plan, which could be an additional cost. Additionally, to use Siri, an Apple home hub is required, which might not be ideal for non-Apple users. The smart speaker feature is a nice touch, but the sound quality might not replace your main speakers. In summary, the ecobee New Smart Thermostat Premium is a comprehensive and smart choice for those looking to upgrade their home’s heating and cooling system, with a few considerations around additional costs for some features.
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is an impressive option for anyone wanting to upgrade their home heating and cooling system. Its compatibility with a wide range of HVAC systems makes it versatile for most homes, and the installation process is user-friendly, typically taking around 40 minutes. The addition of the Nest Temperature Sensor enhances its ability to manage temperature variances in different rooms, which can greatly boost comfort.
One of its standout features is its programmability. The Smart Schedule learns your temperature preferences and adjusts automatically, which can lead to significant energy savings—averaging about 12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills. The Adaptive Eco function is particularly useful for optimizing energy use based on outdoor temperatures. The thermostat's user interface is another strong point. The borderless display is larger and brighter, making it easy to read from a distance. Plus, you can control the thermostat via the Google Home app or voice commands using Alexa or Google Assistant, adding to its convenience.
However, while this thermostat boasts many advanced features, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Some users may find initial setup and learning curves challenging, especially if they are not tech-savvy. It also requires a reliable Wi-Fi connection for optimal use of smart features, which could be a hindrance for some users. In terms of aesthetics, the polished silver finish is sleek and could complement various home decors, but personal preference comes into play here. Additionally, while it is marketed as energy-saving, the actual savings may vary depending on individual usage patterns and home insulation.
The 2025 ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is a robust choice for anyone looking to modernize their home heating and cooling systems. One of its standout features is the potential to save up to 23% on energy costs annually, which can translate to approximately $250 in savings each year, making it a cost-effective option. Its compatibility is impressive, working with 85% of HVAC systems, and it integrates seamlessly with major smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. This makes it a versatile choice for various home setups.
The thermostat is easy to control via its color touchscreen or the highly-rated ecobee app, which also provides software updates to keep the device running optimally over time. Its auto-scheduling and auto-away modes help in optimizing energy use by adjusting temperatures based on your presence. For homes without a common wire (C-Wire), the installation is simplified with the optional Power Extender Kit, although this is an additional purchase.
The inclusion of smart features such as indoor humidity detection and energy use optimization during off-peak hours adds to the device's appeal. Additionally, the ability to add SmartSensors for monitoring different rooms can further enhance comfort and energy savings. However, some users might find the need for purchasing additional components like the Power Extender Kit and SmartSensors an extra cost and effort. The device's minimalist design and the clear LCD display make it user-friendly, although users should ensure their system's compatibility using the ecobee Compatibility Checker before purchase.