Potential Disadvantages to Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats are becoming a staple in homes. They can lower your utility bills, keep your home comfortable, and can save on energy usage. There are many benefits to using a smart thermostat, but it always helps to understand some of the potential pitfalls before making any purchase.

Installation Trouble

Because smart thermostats sometimes need to be wired into the home, it can be difficult to set it up perfectly unless you have some experience. While not always the case, it may be helpful to have a technician install the smart thermostat for you unless you’re tech-savvy and enjoy working with your hands.

Too Many Instructions

One of the uniquely helpful aspects of the smart thermostat is that it can link up with other smart products in the house, such as a panel or Alexa. However, that can also create some potential issues if the instructions about how to connect these devices are too heavy on technology lingo or too extensive and become overwhelming. As this technology advances, it should become easier to streamline each smart product with others already in your home. If you find yourself having trouble understanding how to install or maintain your smart thermostat, it may beneficial to call a technician to help.

Budget Concerns

Smart thermostats can usually pay for themselves in about two years. They save an average of about 11% on heating and 15% on cooling costs. The initial cost, however, can be up to four times the average price of a thermostat. The percentage you save on heating and cooling costs may not even apply to your home. How much you save will be largely dependent on how often you’re in the home, what your ideal temperature is, and what type of climate you happen to live in.

What to Consider

Like most technology, your smart thermostat will require some maintenance and upkeep, but the right one will save you time and money in the long term. For more information about smart thermostats and other smart home automation, call us at Brinks Home™ to find the right technology and protection for your home.

Linley Stringer is a copywriter with Brinks Home. She is passionate about telling stories that keep consumers informed and protected.