Upgrade to a smart thermostat

If you do not already have a smart thermostat, this might be one of the easiest and most cost-effective home energy upgrades you can make. These devices automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your routine, so you stay comfortable without wasting energy or money.

Smart thermostats can learn your schedule, sense when you are away, and even adjust to local weather conditions. Many models connect to your phone, letting you manage heating and cooling remotely. No more realizing you left the air conditioning running after you have already left the house. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that using a programmable or smart thermostat properly can save about 10 percent a year on heating and cooling costs.

Subtitle:Based on average U.S. household heating and cooling costs and a 10% efficiency improvement estimated by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Saver: Programmable Thermostats

Heating and cooling make up nearly half of a typical home’s total energy use, so improving efficiency here can make a pretty noticeable difference. Some thermostats even work with time-of-use energy pricing, shifting your heating or cooling to off-peak hours when electricity demand is lower. Many utility companies also offer rebates, often covering part or all of the cost, which typically runs between 100 and 200 dollars.

I have a Nest thermostat at home, and installation was surprisingly simple. It took about 20 minutes and only required a screwdriver and the step-by-step app guide. It quickly learned my daily routine and now adjusts automatically. As someone who travels often, I love being able to check in from anywhere, monitor the temperature in real time, and track my energy use over time. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my home is staying within a safe temperature range for my pets and plants, even when I am thousands of miles away.

Beyond the savings, there are comfort benefits too. The thermostat adjusts gradually, so there are no sharp temperature swings that make the house feel too hot or too cold. Some models also help manage humidity, send maintenance reminders, or connect to air quality sensors. It is a small piece of technology that quietly keeps your home comfortable and efficient all year long.

How to get started:

1. Pick an Energy Star–certified thermostat such as Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell. (Energy Savings at Home | ENERGY STAR)
2. Follow the included instructions to install it.  You'll need to connect a few wires, but don't worry, there's no risk of shock since they are just for signals
3. Use “eco mode” to automatically dial back heating and cooling when you are away.
4. Connect it with your phone or weather app for smarter scheduling.
5. If you travel often, check whether your model includes remote monitoring or energy reports.