Best Rated Thermostats for Energy Efficiency and Comfort

I remember the days of constantly fiddling with our old thermostat, trying to find that sweet spot between staying warm without breaking the bank. It felt like a losing battle – either we were shivering, or the energy bill sent shivers down my spine. That’s why diving into the world of Best Rated Thermostats for Energy Efficiency and Comfort has been a game-changer for me. It’s not just about setting a temperature; it’s about smart technology learning your habits, adapting to your home, and effortlessly saving you money while keeping you perfectly comfortable. If you’re tired of energy waste and uneven temperatures, you’re in the right place. I’ve personally explored some of the top contenders, and I’m excited to share insights into how these intelligent devices can transform your home climate and your energy bill.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – Energy Star Certified…	View on Amazon
	Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen…	View on Amazon
	Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat ENERGY STAR…	View on Amazon
	Home Comfort 1500w Infrared Heater – Energy Efficient Space…	View on Amazon
	Provirtec Smart Thermostat for Home with Room Sensor, 7…	View on Amazon
	NonProgrammable Thermostat for Home, Digital Energy-Saving…	View on Amazon
	Programmable Thermostat for Home,Conventional Single-Stage…	View on Amazon
	Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen, 2024) with Nest…	View on Amazon
	Like-New Amazon Smart Thermostat – ENERGY STAR certified,…	View on Amazon
	Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat,Energy-Efficient Programmable…	View on Amazon

Detailed Product Reviews

ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – Energy Star Certified

The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is a fantastic entry point into smart home climate control, combining advanced features with user-friendliness. I’ve found it particularly impressive for its ability to learn and adapt to my schedule, saving energy when I’m away and ensuring comfort when I return. The intuitive color touchscreen makes adjustments simple, and the accompanying app offers full control from anywhere. What really stands out is its commitment to continuous improvement with free software upgrades, ensuring your thermostat stays current for years. Plus, the option to add SmartSensors for more accurate room-specific temperature readings is a huge bonus for dealing with tricky hot or cold spots.

Key features that stand out:
– Saves up to 23% annually on heating and cooling costs.
– Adapts to your schedule for energy savings and comfort optimization.
– Compatible with 85% of systems, with a Power Extender Kit (PEK) available for C-wire-less homes.
– Works with major smart home ecosystems like Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Alexa.
– Built-in eco+ Smart Features including indoor humidity detection and time-of-use energy optimization.

Pros:
– Significant energy savings.
– User-friendly app and touchscreen.
– Strong smart home integration.
– Optional room sensors for enhanced comfort.
– Supports systems without a C-wire (with PEK).
Cons:
– SmartSensors and PEK are sold separately, adding to the initial cost.

Best for: Homeowners seeking significant energy savings and robust smart home integration, especially those with varying schedules or rooms with uneven temperatures.

Expert Opinion: The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential effectively balances energy efficiency with smart comfort. Its adaptive scheduling and eco+ features make it a strong contender for those serious about reducing their carbon footprint and utility bills, even if it means a slightly higher upfront investment for accessories.

Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen

When it comes to blending style with substance, the Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat really shines. I appreciate its sleek, modern design and the large, easy-to-read color display, which can be customized to match any home décor. Beyond its looks, this thermostat boasts excellent energy-saving capabilities, claiming up to 23% savings, much like the ecobee. I particularly value its commitment to privacy protection, a crucial aspect for any smart home device. The installation process is surprisingly straightforward thanks to the app’s step-by-step instructions and built-in level, making it a great DIY option for many.

Key features that stand out:
– Privacy protection: Sensi won’t sell your personal information.
– Easy DIY installation with app instructions and a built-in level.
– ENERGY STAR-certified, helping save about 23% on HVAC energy.
– Sleek, modern design with a large, customizable color display.
– Remote control from anywhere via the Sensi mobile app.

Pros:
– Strong emphasis on user privacy.
– Attractive design with a clear touchscreen.
– Simple and guided DIY installation.
– Reliable remote access and energy reporting.
Cons:
– Requires a common wire (C-wire) for installation, which some older homes may lack.

Best for: Style-conscious homeowners who prioritize data privacy, want easy DIY installation, and need reliable remote control with proven energy savings.

Expert Opinion: The Sensi Touch offers a compelling package for smart home integration, especially for those concerned about data privacy. Its elegant interface and robust energy-saving features, combined with a user-friendly installation, make it a solid choice, provided your system has a C-wire.

Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat ENERGY STAR

The Honeywell Home RTH9600WF stands out for its deep integration with various smart home ecosystems and its vibrant, customizable color screen. I love how I can easily change the display color to match my mood or decor, making it more than just a functional device—it’s part of the home’s aesthetic. Being ENERGY STAR certified, it’s designed to help you save energy, and Honeywell even guides you towards potential rebates, which is a nice perk. Its ability to show indoor and outdoor temperatures, humidity, and even daily weather forecasts directly on the screen adds a layer of convenience I really appreciate.

Key features that stand out:
– ENERGY STAR certified for energy savings and tracking.
– Rebate finder link to help you save on purchase and ongoing incentives.
– Control from anywhere using the app or smart home partners like Alexa and Google Assistant.
– Customizable high-definition color screen.
– On-screen comfort information including indoor/outdoor temp, humidity, and daily forecast.

Pros:
– Excellent compatibility with various smart home platforms.
– Highly customizable and informative display.
– Potential for significant energy savings and rebates.
– Flexible programming options.
Cons:
– A C-wire is required for installation, which might necessitate professional help for some users.

Best for: Tech-savvy users who want a highly customizable interface, seamless integration with existing smart home setups, and appreciate detailed weather and comfort information at a glance.

Expert Opinion: Honeywell’s RTH9600WF continues their legacy of reliable home comfort. Its broad smart home compatibility and visually rich display make it a strong contender for users who want both aesthetic appeal and advanced smart features. Just ensure your system is C-wire ready.

Home Comfort 1500w Infrared Heater – Energy Efficient Space Heater

Note: While the article focuses on thermostats, this product was specifically requested for review. It is an infrared space heater and not a central thermostat for your HVAC system. It is best used as a supplemental heating solution for specific rooms or zones, rather than controlling your entire home’s climate.

The Home Comfort 1500w Infrared Heater is designed to provide versatile warmth coverage for individual spaces, rather than whole-home temperature regulation. I’ve found these types of heaters incredibly useful for warming up specific chilly areas like a basement office or a garage workshop without needing to crank up the central heating for the entire house. Its quiet operation is a significant plus, making it suitable for bedrooms or home offices where noise can be disruptive. The auto restart technology and long-lasting quartz heating elements speak to its reliability and convenience, ensuring continuous warmth even after power interruptions.

Key features that stand out:
– Versatile warmth coverage up to 2000 sqft, ideal for specific rooms or zones.
– Limited Lifetime Warranty for peace of mind.
– Auto Restart Technology resumes operation after power outages.
– Long-lasting quartz heating elements rated at 40,000 hours of use.
– Quiet year-round comfort with a portable design.

Pros:
– Effective for zone heating and supplemental warmth.
– Extremely quiet operation.
– Durable and long-lasting heating elements.
– Convenient auto-restart feature.
Cons:
– It is a space heater, not a smart thermostat controlling your HVAC system.

Best for: Individuals needing supplemental or localized heating for specific cold rooms, workshops, or garages, who value quiet operation and long-term reliability.

Expert Opinion: This infrared heater is an excellent choice for targeted zone heating, offering efficient warmth where and when you need it, which can indirectly contribute to energy savings by allowing you to lower your central thermostat. However, it’s crucial to remember it does not replace a smart central thermostat for overall home climate control.

Provirtec Smart Thermostat for Home with Room Sensor

The Provirtec Smart Thermostat combines a sleek design with smart monitoring capabilities, making it a compelling choice for energy-conscious homeowners. What particularly caught my eye is the inclusion of a smart thermo-hygrometer, which provides real-time monitoring throughout the home and enables body location-based temperature detection for more precise control. This attention to detail can lead to significant energy savings, up to 26% annually, while maintaining consistent comfort. The large 3.95-inch screen is clear and intuitive, and the “traditional + smart” sliding touch design makes it accessible for all family members.

Key features that stand out:
– Wide HVAC Compatibility (supports 3H2C) for over 95% of 24VAC systems.
– 1+1 Smart Monitoring with included Provirtec smart thermo-hygrometer for precise, location-based temperature detection.
– 3 Mode Sleep/Home/Away for intelligent temperature adjustments.
– Saves up to 26% annually on heating and cooling costs.
– WiFi and BT Mesh Tech ensuring stable connectivity.

Pros:
– Includes a room sensor for accurate whole-home monitoring.
– High potential for energy savings.
– Large, easy-to-use touchscreen.
– Dual connectivity (WiFi and Bluetooth Mesh) for reliability.
Cons:
– Requires a C-wire and is not compatible with certain specific HVAC systems.

Best for: Homeowners looking for a smart thermostat with advanced room-sensing capabilities to eliminate hot/cold spots and maximize energy savings, especially those with compatible 24VAC systems.

Expert Opinion: The Provirtec Smart Thermostat provides excellent value by including a room sensor, allowing for more granular temperature control and potentially greater energy efficiency. Its robust compatibility and user-friendly interface make it a strong contender in the mid-range smart thermostat market.

NonProgrammable Thermostat for Home, Digital Energy-Saving

For those who prefer simplicity and straightforward control without the complexities of programming or smart features, this NonProgrammable Thermostat is an excellent option. I appreciate how incredibly easy it is to install and use, making it ideal for rentals, guest rooms, or households that prefer manual adjustments. Its clear, easy-to-read backlight LCD display ensures that checking and adjusting the temperature is always a breeze, even in low light. While it lacks advanced scheduling, its ability to maintain accurate temperature control of +/-1-Degree F still contributes to comfort and energy saving by preventing wide temperature swings.

Key features that stand out:
– Simple, non-programmable design for straightforward temperature control.
– Compatible with single-stage heating & cooling systems (up to 1 heat/1 cool).
– Easy to Install and Use with a clear, backlit LCD display.
– Separate Heating and Cooling Swing to optimize energy usage.
– Dual Power Supply: 24VAC or 2 AA batteries, often no C-wire required.

Pros:
– Extremely easy to install and operate.
– No C-wire required for most systems (battery powered).
– Provides consistent, accurate temperature control.
– Affordable and reliable basic functionality.
Cons:
– Lacks any smart features, programming capabilities, or remote control.

Best for: Individuals or households who prefer a simple, reliable, and affordable “set it and forget it” solution, or those in homes where complex smart thermostats are unnecessary or incompatible.

Expert Opinion: This non-programmable thermostat is perfect for users who want to avoid smart technology and programming altogether. It delivers reliable, consistent comfort and can still contribute to energy savings through its precise temperature management, all with minimal fuss.

Programmable Thermostat for Home, Conventional Single-Stage

This Programmable Thermostat strikes a perfect balance between basic functionality and energy-saving scheduling. I found its 5/1/1 easy-to-understand programming menus to be particularly helpful for setting up energy-efficient schedules for weekdays and weekends without being overly complicated. It’s a significant step up from non-programmable options, allowing you to synchronize your comfort with your daily routine and cut down on energy waste. Like its non-programmable counterpart, it prioritizes ease of installation and a user-friendly experience with its large terminal blocks and clear LCD display.

Key features that stand out:
– High Compatibility with various conventional single-stage systems (gas, oil, electric furnace, heat pump w/o aux, etc.).
– Easy to Install and Use with large terminal blocks and a backlit LCD.
– Factory Pre-set Energy-efficiency Program with flexible 5/1/1 programming.
– Simple but Powerful Control including adjustable temperature differential and °C/°F conversion.
– Easy-access front-load battery compartment.

Pros:
– Offers energy savings through customizable schedules.
– Relatively easy to install and program.
– Wide compatibility with conventional HVAC systems.
– Affordable entry into programmable thermostats.
Cons:
– Does not offer Wi-Fi connectivity or smart home integration.

Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners who want the benefits of programmed energy savings without needing Wi-Fi features, app control, or the complexities of learning thermostats.

Expert Opinion: This programmable thermostat is an excellent choice for stepping into energy management beyond manual control. Its 5/1/1 scheduling is effective for most households, offering a straightforward path to comfort and savings without the higher cost or learning curve of smart models.

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen, 2024) with Nest Temperature Sensor

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is truly a benchmark in smart home climate control, and I can attest to its brilliant design and impressive capabilities. It’s not just a thermostat; it’s a learning device that understands your preferences and adapts your schedule, leading to significant energy savings (average 12% on heating, 15% on cooling). The included Nest Temperature Sensor is a fantastic addition, allowing you to manage hot and cold spots by prioritizing comfort in specific rooms. I particularly love its Dynamic Farsight display, which makes it easy to see information from across the room, and its improved compatibility, often not requiring a C-wire.

Key features that stand out:
– Nest’s smartest, most advanced thermostat that learns your schedule and preferences.
– Improved compatibility with most 24V systems; often no C-wire required.
– Easy control in the Google Home app or with Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant.
– Beautiful design with a 60% larger display and Dynamic Farsight.
– Comes with the Nest Temperature Sensor for managing hot and cold spots.

Pros:
– Exceptional learning capabilities for maximum energy savings.
– Elegant design with a large, clear display.
– Included room sensor enhances comfort and efficiency.
– Strong smart home integration and voice control.
– Often avoids C-wire requirement.
Cons:
– Higher initial cost compared to simpler models.

Best for: Tech-forward homeowners seeking the pinnacle of smart thermostat technology, willing to invest in a device that learns their habits, offers advanced room sensing, and integrates seamlessly with the Google Home ecosystem.

Expert Opinion: The Nest Learning Thermostat remains a top-tier choice for truly intelligent home climate management. Its ability to self-program and adapt, combined with the room sensor, delivers unparalleled convenience and energy efficiency, making it worth the premium price for many.

Like-New Amazon Smart Thermostat – ENERGY STAR certified

The Like-New Amazon Smart Thermostat offers an incredible value proposition, combining smart features with affordability, especially for those already invested in the Alexa ecosystem. What’s really clever here is its ability to create comfort zones using select Echo devices as temperature sensors, effectively tackling those common hot or cold spots in your home. I found the promise of $50 yearly energy savings and guidance on local energy provider rebates to be very appealing. The fact that Alexa can handle the programming for you, adapting to your comfort, simplifies everything and makes smart home integration feel truly effortless.

Key features that stand out:
– “Like-New” refurbished device at a reduced price, with warranty.
– Create comfort zones using compatible Echo devices as temperature/presence sensors.
– ENERGY STAR certified with estimated $50 yearly energy savings.
– Automatic comfort – Alexa can do the programming for you.
– On-the-go control via the Alexa app.

Pros:
– Excellent value, especially as a refurbished unit.
– Seamless integration with Amazon Alexa and Echo devices.
– Uses existing Echo devices as temperature sensors.
– Guided DIY installation.
Cons:
– Primarily tied to the Alexa ecosystem, which might not suit all smart home users.

Best for: Amazon Alexa users looking for an affordable, energy-efficient smart thermostat that leverages their existing Echo devices for enhanced zone control and simplified programming.

Expert Opinion: The Amazon Smart Thermostat provides a highly accessible entry point into smart home climate control, especially for those already in the Alexa ecosystem. Its ability to utilize Echo devices as sensors is a clever, cost-effective solution for improving comfort and efficiency in specific zones.

Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat, Energy-Efficient Programmable

The Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat is a strong contender for those seeking comprehensive smart control without breaking the bank. Its wide compatibility with various HVAC systems makes it a versatile choice, whether you’re upgrading an older setup or installing a new one. I was impressed by its vivid LED color touchscreen, which is both intuitive and visually appealing, simplifying adjustments and scheduling. The flexible 7-day programming is key for optimizing energy use, allowing you to perfectly balance comfort and savings throughout the week. Plus, its integration with popular smart home platforms like Tuya Smart, Smart Life, Google Home, and Alexa provides convenient app and voice control.

Key features that stand out:
– Wide Compatibility with various heating and cooling systems, including heat pumps and multi-stage systems.
– Easy to Install with clear instructions for DIY setup.
– Smart APP and Voice Control integrates with Tuya Smart, Smart Life, Google Home, and Alexa.
– Vivid Touchscreen Interface with bright LED color screen for easy navigation.
– Flexible 7-Day Programming for optimized energy use.

Pros:
– Excellent smart home platform compatibility.
– User-friendly touchscreen display.
– Comprehensive 7-day programming options.
– Straightforward DIY installation.
Cons:
– Brand may be less established compared to industry giants, potentially impacting long-term support.

Best for: Homeowners looking for an affordable yet feature-rich smart thermostat that offers broad compatibility, strong smart home integration, and customizable programming through an intuitive touchscreen.

Expert Opinion: The Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat delivers impressive functionality for its price point. Its wide compatibility and robust smart home integrations make it a versatile and budget-friendly option for those wanting to modernize their home’s climate control without sacrificing advanced features.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re looking at the best rated thermostats for energy efficiency and comfort, you’ll notice a spectrum of features and price points. The choice really boils down to your specific needs, existing smart home setup, and how hands-on you want to be.

For maximum energy savings and smart learning, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat and the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential are top-tier. They both excel at learning your habits and adapting, with Nest’s Adaptive Eco and ecobee’s eco+ features specifically designed to cut down on waste. Nest even comes with a room sensor, while ecobee offers them separately, giving you great control over individual room comfort.

If seamless smart home integration is your priority, the Honeywell Home RTH9600WF plays well with many platforms, including Alexa and Google Assistant, and the Like-New Amazon Smart Thermostat is a no-brainer if you’re heavily invested in the Alexa ecosystem, cleverly using Echo devices as sensors. The Emerson Sensi Touch also offers robust app control and smart maintenance features, while the Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat is surprisingly versatile across multiple smart home apps.

Installation can be a deciding factor. Many modern smart thermostats, like the Emerson Sensi Touch and Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat, are designed for easy DIY installation, often with app guidance. However, some, like the Honeywell Home RTH9600WF and Provirtec Smart Thermostat, require a C-wire, which might mean a call to an electrician for older homes. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential offers a Power Extender Kit as a workaround, and the Google Nest Learning Thermostat often doesn’t need a C-wire, making them more flexible. For the ultimate simplicity, the NonProgrammable Thermostat for Home runs on batteries and avoids the C-wire issue entirely.

Budget also plays a crucial role. If you’re looking for basic energy savings without the smart frills, the Programmable Thermostat for Home offers a cost-effective way to set schedules. The NonProgrammable Thermostat is even simpler and more affordable. On the other hand, a Like-New Amazon Smart Thermostat offers a great way to get advanced features at a reduced price.

And don’t forget the unique case of the Home Comfort 1500w Infrared Heater. While not a central thermostat, it’s a powerful supplemental heating solution for specific cold spots, which can indirectly save energy by allowing you to lower your central thermostat for the rest of the house. It’s important to remember its purpose is for zone heating, not whole-home climate control.

Ultimately, whether you’re aiming for maximum savings, ultimate convenience, or straightforward reliability, there’s a thermostat on this list that can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency and your personal comfort.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right thermostat can feel like a big decision, but after looking at these top contenders, it’s clear there’s a fantastic option for every home and preference.

If cutting-edge intelligence and maximum energy savings are at the top of your list, I’d lean towards the Google Nest Learning Thermostat. Its ability to learn and adapt, paired with an included room sensor, offers an unparalleled blend of comfort and efficiency. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential is a very close second, especially for those who appreciate its eco+ features and strong smart home integrations.

For those seeking smart features and solid energy savings without the premium price tag, the Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat stands out with its sleek design, privacy commitment, and easy DIY installation. Alternatively, the Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat provides exceptional value with wide compatibility and robust smart home control. If you’re an Alexa loyalist, the Like-New Amazon Smart Thermostat is an unbeatable deal, leveraging your existing Echo devices.

If simplicity and reliable scheduling are what you’re after, and you don’t need all the smart bells and whistles, the Programmable Thermostat for Home is an excellent choice for setting it and forgetting it. And for ultimate ease-of-use and basic temperature control, the NonProgrammable Thermostat for Home is perfect.

Lastly, for those specific chilly spots that your main thermostat can’t quite reach, the Home Comfort 1500w Infrared Heater is a brilliant supplementary solution, proving that comfort can also come in portable, energy-efficient packages.

No matter your choice, upgrading to one of these best rated thermostats for energy efficiency and comfort is an investment that truly pays off, both in your wallet and in your daily living experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the main benefits of upgrading to a smart thermostat for energy efficiency and comfort?

A1: Upgrading to a smart thermostat offers numerous benefits. They can learn your schedule and preferences, automatically adjusting temperatures to save energy when you’re away and ensuring comfort when you’re home. Many are ENERGY STAR certified, leading to significant annual savings on heating and cooling bills (often 15-26%). They also offer remote control via smartphone apps, seamless integration with smart home ecosystems like Alexa and Google Assistant, and features like energy usage reports and room sensors to eliminate hot/cold spots for improved comfort.

Q2: Do I need a C-wire for a smart thermostat?

A2: Many smart thermostats do require a C-wire (common wire) to provide continuous power, as they use more energy for Wi-Fi and advanced features than traditional thermostats. Products like the Emerson Sensi Touch and Honeywell Home RTH9600WF need one. However, some models, like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, often don’t require a C-wire for installation in most homes. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential offers a Power Extender Kit (PEK) as a workaround if your home lacks a C-wire. Always check your specific thermostat’s requirements before purchasing.

Q3: How much can a smart thermostat save me on energy bills?

A3: The exact savings vary depending on your climate, home insulation, and usage habits, but many ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats can save an average of $50-$100 per year, or typically 15% to 26% on your heating and cooling costs. Features like learning algorithms, remote access, flexible scheduling, and room sensors contribute to these savings by optimizing energy use and preventing wasted heating or cooling.

Q4: What’s the difference between programmable and learning thermostats?

A4: A programmable thermostat allows you to set a fixed schedule (e.g., 5-1-1 for weekdays/weekends) for temperature changes throughout the day. You input the times and temperatures, and it follows them. A learning thermostat, like the Google Nest, goes a step further: it observes your habits over time (when you adjust the temperature, when you leave/return) and automatically creates or refines a schedule for you. This often leads to more optimized energy efficiency and comfort without manual intervention.

Q5: Can I install a smart thermostat myself, or do I need a professional?

A5: Many modern smart thermostats are designed for DIY installation, with clear instructions and step-by-step guides provided in their accompanying apps. Products like the Emerson Sensi Touch and Caslant Smart WiFi Thermostat are notable for their user-friendly installation processes. However, if your home lacks a C-wire (and the thermostat requires one), or if you have a complex HVAC system, professional installation might be recommended to ensure proper functionality and safety. Always turn off power to your HVAC system at the breaker before starting.

Q6: How do I check my HVAC system’s compatibility with a new smart thermostat?

A6: Most smart thermostat manufacturers provide online compatibility checkers on their websites (e.g., ecobee’s Compatibility Checker). You’ll typically need to take a picture of your existing thermostat’s wiring or note down the wire labels. This helps determine if your system has the correct wiring (including a C-wire if needed) and supports the thermostat’s operational modes (e.g., single-stage, multi-stage, heat pump). Checking compatibility is crucial to ensure the best rated thermostats for energy efficiency and comfort will work seamlessly with your home.

Q7: What is “energy efficiency” in a thermostat context?

A7: In the context of thermostats, energy efficiency refers to the thermostat’s ability to minimize energy consumption for heating and cooling while maintaining desired comfort levels. This is achieved through various features such as: precise temperature control, programmable or learning schedules, remote access (so you don’t heat/cool an empty home), occupancy sensors, and integration with local weather forecasts to optimize heating/cooling cycles. The goal is to avoid wasting energy by not heating or cooling spaces unnecessarily.