· smart energy devices · 3 min read
Ecobee Smart Thermostats Buying Guide
Ecobee is the leading name in smart thermostats. This guide aims to simplify your buying options by breaking down Ecobee's unique features and capabilities.
If you’re shopping for a smart thermostat, you’ll likely encounter Ecobee—a market leader in smart home comfort. With models to fit various needs and budgets, Ecobee offers more than just temperature control; they provide a complete solution for home energy management. This guide aims to simplify your buying options by breaking down Ecobee’s unique features and capabilities. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just looking for a budget-friendly option, we’ll help you find the Ecobee model that’s right for you. Let’s dive in.
Ecobee3 Lite: The Budget-Friendly Smart Thermostat
The Ecobee3 Lite, priced at an affordable $140, is an Energy Star Certified smart thermostat that promises substantial energy savings. This user-friendly thermostat is designed for DIY installation and offers seamless integration with major smart home ecosystems, including Apple HomeKit. Additionally, it’s Wi-Fi connected and compatible with all smart home systems.
Advanced Software Features
While Ecobee’s hardware is impressive, it’s the advanced software features that truly add value. All models come equipped with eco+, a sophisticated software that enhances energy savings by learning your routine and suggesting modifications to your thermostat schedule for optimal energy efficiency. Here’s what the Ecobee3 Lite, their base model, brings to the table:
1.Time of Use: This feature smartly adjusts your energy consumption based on the time of day, potentially saving you money by minimizing energy use during peak hours when energy costs are higher.
2.Adjust the Temperature for Humidity: This feature fine-tunes the temperature based on the humidity level detected in your home, ensuring your home always feels like the temperature you’ve set on your thermostat.
3.Schedule Assistant: This feature tailors your thermostat’s schedule based on your habits and preferences.
4.Community Energy Savings: Also known as Demand Response with affiliated utility providers. This feature makes minor temperature adjustments during times of peak energy demand in your community.
5.Smart Home & Away: This intelligent feature employs geofencing or other techniques to discern whether you’re home or away, adjusting your thermostat settings to conserve energy.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced: The Next Step Up
Priced at $189, the Smart Thermostat Enhanced model offers a host of advanced features not found in the Ecobee3 Lite.
Additional Features Over Ecobee3 Lite
1.Larger Touchscreen: A 50% larger display provides an intuitive user interface.
2.Dual-Band Wi-Fi: Offers more reliable connectivity.
3.Radar-Based Occupancy Sensor: Enhances geofencing capabilities.
4.Security Hub Compatibility: Allows the addition of window and door sensors with a monthly security service subscription.
5.Pause When Open: If a door or window is left open for 5 minutes, Ecobee will send you an alert and automatically pause your heating or cooling to prevent energy waste.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium: The Ultimate Choice
Retailing at $249, the Ecobee Premium is Ecobee’s flagship model. It encompasses all the features of the Enhanced model, along with a host of additional capabilities.
Additional Features Over Enhanced Model
1.Integrated Indoor Air Quality Monitor: Monitors air quality inside your home.
2.Smoke Alarm Detection: Adds an extra layer of safety.
3.Spotify & Bluetooth Streaming: Transform your thermostat into a music player.
4.Built-in Siri/Alexa: Facilitates hands-free calling and intercom functionality.
5.Included Smart Sensor: Primarily used for occupancy detection.
Conclusion
The Ecobee3 Lite offers everything you need from a smart thermostat, including Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with all major smart home ecosystems. The Enhanced model brings in additional features like a larger touchscreen and security options. The Premium model takes it a step further with smoke detection, air quality monitoring, and built-in Siri/Alexa/Spotify capabilities. You even receive a Smart Sensor with the Premium package, making it a comprehensive choice for those looking for advanced features.