Installing a smart thermostat is a fairly simple process that can be completed by following a few steps. Here's a general outline of how to install a smart thermostat:
- Turn off the Power: Before beginning any electrical work, turn off the power to your heating and cooling system at the breaker box. This will ensure your safety during installation.
- Remove the Old Thermostat: Take off the cover of your existing thermostat and unscrew it from the wall. Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the thermostat, making note of their corresponding terminals. Labeling the wires can make it easier when connecting them to the new thermostat later on.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure that your new smart thermostat is compatible with your heating and cooling system. Most manufacturers provide compatibility information on their websites or packaging. If you're unsure, consult a professional or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
- Mount the Backplate: Attach the backplate of your smart thermostat to the wall using screws and a screwdriver. Ensure that it is level and securely mounted.
- Connect the Wires: Take the wires from your heating and cooling system and connect them to the corresponding terminals on the backplate of your smart thermostat. Refer to the labeling of the wires and the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper connections.
- Attach the Thermostat: Once the wires are securely connected, carefully attach the smart thermostat to the backplate. Ensure that it snaps into place or is screwed on as per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the breaker box to your heating and cooling system.
- Configure the Settings: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to configure the settings on your smart thermostat. This may involve connecting it to your home's Wi-Fi network and downloading any necessary smartphone apps.
- Test and Set Schedules: Test your smart thermostat to see if it's working correctly. Set your desired heating and cooling schedules to utilize the smart features and optimize energy efficiency.
That's it! Your smart thermostat should now be successfully installed and ready to use. However, note that these steps can vary slightly depending on the specific brand and model of your smart thermostat, so it's always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for accurate installation guidance.
The Best Smart Thermostats for 2025
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
ecobee New Smart Thermostat Enhanced - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant - Energy Star Certified - Smart Home
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Save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs. ENERGY STAR certified. Automatically adjusts the temperature when you’re away to never heat or cool an empty home. Compared to a hold of 72°F.
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Enjoy comfort without compromise. Smart Thermostat Enhanced preheats or precools your home before you arrive, so it’s the perfect temperature the moment you walk in. Automatically adjusts to your desired temperature when you’re home or sleeping to keep you comfortable day and night. Adjusts the temperature to account for humidity so your home always feels like the temperature you’ve set.
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Easy to install and use every day, ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced comes with everything you need for installation. Most people install it themselves in about 45 minutes or less. Use your smart home platform and the ecobee app to control your thermostat from anywhere with your smartphone, tablet, or Apple Watch.
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ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced is made with quality materials and designed to last on your wall for over a decade. It’s hardwired so you never have to worry about losing control or replacing batteries. If you run into problems, our dedicated support team is available 7 days a week.
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Add in a SmartSensor which allows you to measure the temperature in rooms that matter most, like the nursery or bedroom. It reads temperature and movement in whatever room it is placed in for complete home monitoring and energy savings (SmartSensor sold separately).
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Compatible with most 24VAC HVAC systems: furnaces, ACs (2H/2C), heat pumps (2H/2C + 2 stage AUX), boilers, PTACs, and fan coil units (3 fan speeds). Includes Power Extender Kit for C-Wire-less homes, ensuring easy installation.
2
Rating is 5 out of 5
Google Nest Learning Thermostat - Smart & Programmable for Home - 3rd Generation - Works with Alexa - Mirror Black
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Programmable smart thermostat that learns your schedule and the temperatures you like and programs itself to help you save energy and stay comfortable
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Home/Away Assist automatically adjusts itself to an Eco Temperature after you leave, so you don’t heat or cool an empty home; remote control lets you change the temperature from anywhere on your phone, laptop, or tablet[1]
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With Energy History, just check your phone to see how much energy you used and why, or use Quick View on the display to reach Energy History, settings, or your schedule; the Nest Leaf appears when you choose a temperature that saves energy
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Smart thermostat with HVAC monitoring, which looks out for your heating and cooling systems; sends an alert if something doesn’t seem right, along with helpful reminders to make maintenance easier[2]
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The Nest Learning Thermostat works with the Nest Temperature Sensor (sold separately) to help make sure a certain room is the exact temperature you want it to be
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Beautifully designed, with polished metal finishes and bright, high resolution display; Farsight shows you the temperature, weather, or time on your thermostat when you walk in the room
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It’s easy to install your thermostat, typically in 30 minutes or less, with everything you need included in the box; compatible with 95% of heating and cooling systems
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Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Stainless Steel) with a Google Authenticity Seal
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Nest Renew makes it simple to support clean energy right from home; it works with your Nest Learning Thermostat[6] to help you automatically prioritize your usage[7] to times when energy is cleaner or less expensive
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Please refer to the product description section below for all applicable legal disclaimers denoted by the bracketed numbers in the preceding bullet points (e.g., [1], [2], etc.)
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Amazon Smart Thermostat – ENERGY STAR certified, DIY install, Works with Alexa – C-wire required
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Smart upgrade - Amazon Smart Thermostat is an easy way to switch from a traditional thermostat and help reduce energy usage.
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Save money - After purchase, Amazon will send you an email with details about rebates that may be available from energy providers in your area. Explore rebates above.
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Save energy - According to EPA estimates, ENERGY STAR certified thermostats save an average of $50 on yearly energy bills.
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Automatic comfort - Alexa can do the programming for you, updating the temperature to keep you comfortable.
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On-the-go control - Let Alexa set the temperature, or set it yourself from anywhere with the Alexa app.
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You can do it - The Alexa app will guide you through the installation process, but customer service is always available.
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Reliable - Made with Honeywell Home Thermostat Technology and backed by 130 years of experience.
4
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Google Nest Thermostat - Smart Thermostat for Home - Programmable Wifi Thermostat - Snow
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ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostat for home that helps you save energy and stay comfortable.Product note: You can also check your system’s compatibility before purchasing a Nest thermostat with our online Nest Compatibility Checker on the Google Nest support page.Connectivity Protocol : Wi-Fi.Connectivity Protocol : Wi-Fi
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The Nest Thermostat is designed to work without a C wire in most homes, but for some systems, including heating only, cooling only, zone controlled, and heat pump systems, you’ll need a C wire or other compatible power accessory. Lock feature: No
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Nest Thermostat turns itself down when you leave, so you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty home; easily program an energy efficient schedule in the Google home app on your Android or iPhone
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Remote control lets family members change the thermostat temperature from anywhere on a phone, laptop, or tablet[1]
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Savings Finder looks for more ways your thermostat can help you save, and suggests tweaks to your schedule in the app; check with your energy provider to learn more about rebates and more ways to save on a Nest thermostat
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Smart thermostat with HVAC monitoring, which looks out for your heating and cooling systems; sends an alert if something doesn’t seem right, along with helpful reminders to make maintenance easier[2]
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It’s easy to install your thermostat, typically in 30 minutes or less, with everything you need included in the box; it’s compatible with 85% of heating and cooling systems
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Control the temperature with your voice using smart home devices that work with Google Assistant or Alexa[3]
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Nest Renew makes it simple to support clean energy right from home; it works with your Nest Thermostat[5] to help you automatically prioritize your usage[6] to times when energy is cleaner or less expensive
5
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
New 2023! Honeywell Home RTH8800WF2022, T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat, 7 Day-Programmable Touchscreen, Alexa Ready, Geofencing Technology, Energy Star, C-Wire Required
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High use of the scheduling feature of the T5 thermostat saved customers between 8 and 16% on heating and cooling bills. Dollar savings range based on nationwide average annual single-family detached home's heat and cooling bills; actual savings varies based on consumption.
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Save Energy and Get Rewarded. Check with your energy provider about available energy savings rebates to save on your purchase. Plus, eligible customers can enroll in their local Utility's "DEMAND RESPONSE PROGRAM" which can reward you for allowing the utility to slightly adjust your AC or furnace temperature settings when there is high energy demand.
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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.
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Auto Home and Away Mode. Enjoy ideal temperatures at home, then save when away.
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ENERGY STAR certified. Help save energy, track your heating and cooling with monthly energy reports and get personalized tips on reducing energy use.
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C-WIRE POWER ADAPTER REQUIRED: Before purchasing, check to see if this thermostat is compatible with your home and to determine if your home needs a C-wire power adapter.
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Works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems. Will not work with heating only oil furnace systems unless a C-Wire is present.
6
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat for Smart Home, DIY, Works With Alexa, Energy Star Certified, ST55
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PRIVACY PROTECTION*: Sensi won’t sell your personal information to third parties
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SAVE ABOUT 23% ON HVAC ENERGY*: The ENERGY STAR-certified Sensi smart thermostat can help you save energy with features like flexible scheduling, remote access, and usage reports
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EASY DIY INSTALLATION: Use the built-in level and step-by-step app instructions for a quick installation. Works with HVAC equipment found in most homes. Common wire (c-wire) is not required in most applications
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SMART MAINTENANCE: Sensi can help monitor the performance and efficiency of your HVAC system by delivering valuable usage reports, alerts about your equipment, and maintenance reminders like filter replacement
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SIMPLE CONFIGURATION: Looks and feels like a thermostat. Has buttons and fits the same space as a traditional thermostat so you don’t have to patch and paint your walls
Should I turn off the heating/cooling system during installation?
It is generally recommended to turn off the heating/cooling system during installation or any kind of maintenance work. This is done to avoid any potential accidents, to ensure the safety of the installers, and to prevent any damage that may occur to the system during the installation process. However, it is always best to consult with a professional HVAC technician or follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for your particular system.
What are the steps involved in installing a smart thermostat?
The steps involved in installing a smart thermostat typically include:
- Choose a compatible thermostat: Research and select a smart thermostat model that is compatible with your heating and cooling system. Check the manufacturer's website or consult a professional if you are unsure.
- Turn off power: Turn off the power supply to your heating and cooling system at the circuit breaker to ensure safety while working with electrical components.
- Remove the old thermostat: Remove the cover of your existing thermostat and carefully disconnect the wires. Take note of the wire labels or take a picture to remember the correct connections.
- Mount the smart thermostat: Use the provided mounting bracket and screws to secure the smart thermostat to your wall. Make sure it is level and properly aligned.
- Connect the wires: Take each wire from the old thermostat and connect it to the corresponding terminal on the smart thermostat. Refer to the installation manual or wiring diagram for proper guidance.
- Attach the backplate: Align the smart thermostat's backplate with the mounting bracket and snap it into place. Make sure all the wires are properly seated within the backplate.
- Restore power: Turn the power supply back on at the circuit breaker and wait for the smart thermostat to initialize. Follow the instructions on the thermostat's display to complete the setup process.
- Configure the thermostat: Use the smart thermostat's app or on-screen settings to input your desired temperature preferences, program schedules, and any additional features you wish to activate. Connect the thermostat to your home's Wi-Fi network if necessary.
- Test and adjust: Test the smart thermostat by adjusting the temperature settings and observing if it properly controls your heating and cooling system. Make any necessary adjustments or troubleshoot issues as per the manufacturer's instructions.
Note: It is always recommended to refer to the specific installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of your smart thermostat for accurate and detailed guidance. Additionally, if you are uncomfortable or unsure of any step, it is advisable to consult a professional HVAC technician for assistance.
How often should I clean or maintain the smart thermostat?
The frequency of cleaning and maintenance for a smart thermostat may vary depending on various factors such as environmental conditions and usage. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Check the thermostat regularly: Look for any dust or debris accumulation on the surface of the thermostat, vents, or buttons. If you notice any buildup, it's time for cleaning.
- Clean the thermostat exterior: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the surface of the thermostat and remove any dust or smudges. Avoid using abrasive or chemical cleaners, as they can damage the device.
- Clear the vents: Regularly check the vents of the thermostat and make sure they are clean and free from any obstructions. Use a small brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris.
- Test and calibrate sensors: Occasionally, verify the accuracy of the temperature and occupancy sensors of the thermostat. You can do this by comparing the thermostat's readings to a separate thermometer or by observing how it responds to changes in room temperature. If the readings are consistently inaccurate, consider recalibrating or contacting the manufacturer for assistance.
- Update firmware: Smart thermostats often receive software updates to enhance their performance or add new features. Check for any available firmware updates from the manufacturer and install them as recommended.
Remember to consult the user manual provided by the thermostat manufacturer for specific instructions regarding cleaning and maintenance, as different models may have varying requirements.
