Best Smart Thermostats for Landlords: 10 Best Choices

As a landlord, I know how important it is to keep tenants happy and manage energy costs effectively. That’s why I’ve spent countless hours researching and testing smart thermostats – the kind that can save you money, boost tenant satisfaction, and even add a layer of security to your rental properties. This guide compares ten of the best smart thermostats on the market, helping you choose the perfect one for your needs and budget. We’ll cover features, pros, cons, and real-world user feedback to make your decision easier.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – Energy Star Certified…	View on Amazon
	ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Smart Thermostat – Save money and energy – Works…	View on Amazon
	ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced – Programmable Wifi…	View on Amazon
	Google Nest Thermostat – Smart Thermostat for Home -…	View on Amazon
	New! Honeywell Home Smart Thermostat, Conventional/Heat…	View on Amazon
	Sensi Lite Smart Thermostat, Data Privacy, Programmable,…	View on Amazon
	Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen…	View on Amazon
	Mysa Smart Thermostat LITE for Electric Baseboard Heaters…	View on Amazon
	Honeywell Home RTH8800WF2022, T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat, 7…	View on Amazon

ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential – Energy Star Certified

The ecobee Essential is a solid entry-level option. It’s easy to install and use, offering basic smart features like remote control and scheduling. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for simple functionality without breaking the bank.

• Key Features: Energy Star certified, remote access, scheduling, affordable.
• Pros: Easy installation, user-friendly interface, cost-effective.
• Cons: Lacks advanced features found in higher-end models.
• User Feedback Summary: Generally positive, praised for its simplicity and ease of use.

ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air Quality Monitor

The ecobee Premium is a premium option for landlords who want top-tier features. The built-in air quality monitor is a significant advantage, improving tenant comfort and potentially reducing maintenance issues. The included SmartSensor is a game-changer, allowing for more precise temperature control in different rooms.

• Key Features: SmartSensor included, air quality monitoring, advanced occupancy sensing, potential security features (subscription required), built-in smart speaker (Siri/Alexa).
• Pros: Advanced features, superior comfort control, excellent air quality monitoring.
• Cons: Higher price point, requires a subscription for some features.
• User Feedback Summary: Very positive reviews, praising its features and ease of use. Some mention the premium price.

Amazon Smart Thermostat – Save money and energy – Works with Alexa

This thermostat seamlessly integrates with the Alexa ecosystem, making it a breeze for tech-savvy landlords and tenants to manage temperatures. The energy-saving features and potential for rebates are also attractive.

• Key Features: Alexa integration, energy-saving features, potential for rebates.
• Pros: Easy setup with Alexa, intuitive interface, good value for money.
• Cons: Fewer advanced features compared to ecobee’s premium models.
• User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive, users appreciate the Alexa integration and ease of use.

ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced – Programmable Wifi Smart Thermostat

The ecobee Enhanced falls between the Essential and Premium models. It offers a nice balance between features and price. This is a great option if you want more capabilities than the Essential but don’t need all the bells and whistles of the Premium.

• Key Features: Remote access, scheduling, pre-heating/pre-cooling, humidity adjustment, compatibility with most HVAC systems.
• Pros: Good balance of features and price, reliable performance, easy installation.
• Cons: Lacks the air quality monitoring and SmartSensor of the Premium model.
• User Feedback Summary: Generally positive, users praise its reliable performance and ease of use.

Google Nest Thermostat – Smart Thermostat for Home – Energy Saving

The Nest Thermostat is a popular and stylish option. Its sleek design blends well into most homes, and its learning capabilities help optimize energy usage over time. However, keep in mind that the absence of a C-wire may require additional accessories for installation in some homes.

• Key Features: Energy Star certified, learning algorithm, stylish design, Google Home integration.
• Pros: Sleek design, user-friendly app, good energy saving capabilities.
• Cons: May require additional accessories for installation in some homes, limited advanced features compared to some competitors.
• User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive, praised for its design and ease of use. Some users report occasional connectivity issues.

New! Honeywell Home Smart Thermostat, Conventional/Heat Pump

Honeywell is a trusted name in home comfort, and their smart thermostat delivers reliable performance with solid features. The Matter certification is a plus, ensuring broad compatibility with other smart home devices. However, remember to check for C-wire compatibility.

• Key Features: Matter certified, Alexa/Google Assistant/Apple HomeKit compatible, 7-day scheduling, energy-saving features.
• Pros: Reliable brand, broad smart home compatibility, good value for features.
• Cons: Requires a C-wire for optimal operation.
• User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive, with users noting reliable performance and straightforward app.

Sensi Lite Smart Thermostat, Data Privacy, Programmable, Smart Home

The Sensi Lite prioritizes simplicity and data privacy. It’s a good choice for landlords who value a straightforward, no-frills thermostat with a focus on energy efficiency. Remember to check for C-wire requirements.

• Key Features: Easy installation, energy-saving features, strong emphasis on data privacy.
• Pros: Simple to use, focus on privacy, cost-effective.
• Cons: Lacks some advanced features of other models.
• User Feedback Summary: Generally positive, users appreciate the ease of installation and data privacy focus.

Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen

The Sensi Touch offers a larger touchscreen interface than the Lite model, making it more visually appealing and intuitive for tenants. It shares the same focus on data privacy and ease of use. Again, check for C-wire requirements.

• Key Features: Touchscreen interface, energy-saving features, data privacy, smart maintenance alerts.
• Pros: User-friendly touchscreen, visually appealing, good energy-saving features.
• Cons: Might be slightly more expensive than the Sensi Lite.
• User Feedback Summary: Positive reviews, praising the intuitive touchscreen and ease of use.

Mysa Smart Thermostat LITE for Electric Baseboard Heaters

This thermostat is specifically designed for electric baseboard heaters, making it a suitable option for properties with this type of heating system. Further research into its specific features and user feedback is recommended to ensure it fits your needs.

• Key Features: Designed for electric baseboard heaters.
• Pros: Suitable for specific heating systems.
• Cons: Limited compatibility with other heating systems. Requires further research.
• User Feedback Summary: Requires further research.

Honeywell Home RTH8800WF2022, T5 WiFi Smart Thermostat, 7-Day Programmable

The Honeywell T5 offers a solid combination of features and affordability. Its 7-day programmable scheduling and geofencing capabilities make it a practical choice for energy management. Remember to check for C-wire compatibility.

• Key Features: 7-day scheduling, geofencing, energy-saving features, potential rebates.
• Pros: Good value, reliable performance, energy-efficient features.
• Cons: Requires a C-wire adapter in some installations.
• User Feedback Summary: Positive feedback on its features and functionality. Some users mention issues with installation.

Practical Buying Advice

Choosing the right smart thermostat depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider these factors:

• Budget: Prices vary significantly. The ecobee Essential is a budget-friendly option, while the ecobee Premium and Nest Learning Thermostat are at the higher end.
• Features: Do you need advanced features like air quality monitoring or SmartSensors?
• Compatibility: Ensure the thermostat is compatible with your existing HVAC system. Check for C-wire requirements.
• Smart Home Ecosystem: Choose a thermostat compatible with your preferred smart home platform (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit).
• Installation: Some thermostats are easier to install than others. Consider your DIY skills or the cost of professional installation.
• Tenant Preferences: Consider your tenants’ tech-savviness and preferences when selecting a model.

Final Verdict

There’s no single “best” smart thermostat for all landlords. The ecobee Premium stands out for its advanced features and excellent performance, but its price is higher. The Amazon Smart Thermostat is a great value option for Alexa users, while the ecobee Essential provides a simple and affordable solution. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and budget.

FAQ

1. Do I need a C-wire for a smart thermostat? Many smart thermostats work without a C-wire, but some require it or a power adapter, especially for heat pumps. Check the product specifications before purchasing.

2. How much can I save with a smart thermostat? Savings vary depending on your usage patterns and energy rates. However, most ENERGY STAR certified models offer significant energy savings.

3. Are smart thermostats difficult to install? Many models are designed for DIY installation, with clear instructions and user-friendly apps. However, if you’re uncomfortable with electrical work, consider professional installation.

4. Can I control my smart thermostat remotely? Yes, most smart thermostats offer remote access through a mobile app, allowing you to adjust temperatures from anywhere.

5. What if my smart thermostat malfunctions? Most manufacturers offer warranties and customer support. Check the warranty details before making a purchase.

6. How do I choose a thermostat that’s compatible with my HVAC system? Consult the thermostat’s compatibility list and check your HVAC system’s specifications. You might even contact the manufacturer directly.

7. Can I use a smart thermostat in a multi-unit building? Yes, but you may need one thermostat per unit, or a system designed for multi-zone control, depending on the building’s setup.

8. What are the security implications of using a smart thermostat? Choose reputable brands with strong security protocols, and consider using a strong password and enabling two-factor authentication if available. Regular software updates are also important.