Locally, the titans of wifi-enabled or “smart” thermostats seem to be Nest and Ecobee. After using both for an extended period of time, we’ve identified a number of similarities and a few noteworthy differences. If you’re thinking about installing a new thermostat in your home located along the Wasatch Front, here are a few things to consider.
Similarities
The thermostats offered by Nest and Ecobee are similar in the following respects:
- Both thermostats are wifi-enabled, which will allow you to control them from your smartphone
- Both are visually appealing and come equipped with a digital display
- Both will allow you to enable “geofencing,” a feature that relies on your phone to determine when you are home. If you have enabled geofencing, your thermostat will tolerate a wider range of indoor temperatures. This decreases the demand for your heating and cooling system. Then, when you return home, your thermostat will automatically adjust back to your preferred settings
- Both thermostats will allow you to set a temperature range and will call on your furnace for heat if your home gets too cold or your air conditioner tune-up North Salt Lake for cooling if your home gets too warm
Differences
One of the main differences between the Nest and Ecobee is the number of wires required to install them. Thermostats are usually installed using four wires, but in our experience, the Nest thermostat calls for five wires in most applications. This often catches the do-it-yourselfer off guard and results in a service call to Blue Best Heating & Air. Although we are happy to come assist, some homeowners might be surprised to learn that they can avoid this issue altogether with the Ecobee, which requires only four wires.
Most Ecobee thermostats also come with a remote temperature sensor. (These can be purchased separately for a Nest.) This will allow you to monitor and adjust the temperature in other areas of your house. For example, your thermostat may be installed near the main living area of your home. But, the basement in your home may run a few degrees cooler than you like. You can place the Ecobee remote sensor in your basement and program your furnace to come on if the temperature drops too low.
Finally, you may find the Ecobee easier to use because it is equipped with a touch-screen. In contrast, to adjust the Nest from the base (as opposed to your smartphone), you’ll have to use the outer ring and a series of presses to locate and select the desired settings.
If you’re thinking about installing a new thermostat in your home, contact one of the specialists at Blue Best Heating & Air for more information about the available options.
