Investing in smart thermostats and energy monitors can help you save money on your utility bills while making your home more energy-efficient. These devices allow you to monitor and control your home’s energy usage, offering insights and automation that lead to significant savings in the long run. However, the upfront cost of purchasing smart thermostats and energy monitors can be high. Fortunately, there are ways to save money when buying these products. Here’s how you can get the best deals on smart thermostats and energy monitors.
Shop During Major Sales Events
One of the easiest ways to save on smart thermostats and energy monitors is by taking advantage of seasonal sales and holiday promotions. Retailers often offer significant discounts during shopping holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day. These events can feature markdowns of 20-50% on popular smart home brands like Nest, Ecobee, and Sensi.
In addition to the major shopping holidays, look for deals around Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Fourth of July. Retailers such as Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe’s often run special promotions during these periods, making it a great time to purchase smart thermostats and energy monitors at discounted prices.
Take Advantage of Utility Company Rebates
Many utility companies offer rebates for installing smart thermostats and energy monitors in your home. These rebates can range from $50 to $200, depending on your location and the device. By installing an eligible smart thermostat, you not only save on your energy bills but also get a direct rebate from your utility company, significantly reducing the upfront cost.
To find out if your utility company offers rebates, visit their website or use rebate lookup tools like those offered by Nest and Ecobee. These tools allow you to search for available rebates in your area and guide you through the application process.
Compare Prices Across Multiple Retailers
To get the best deal on smart thermostats and energy monitors, it’s essential to compare prices across several online and in-store retailers. Websites like Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot, and Best Buy frequently offer competitive pricing, and you may find different promotions depending on the time of year.
Price comparison tools such as Google Shopping or browser extensions like Honey can also help you track prices across multiple retailers, ensuring you find the lowest price available. Additionally, keep an eye out for price matching policies, where a retailer may match the lower price of a competitor.
Use Coupons, Promo Codes, and Cashback Apps
Another way to save on smart thermostats and energy monitors is by using coupons, promo codes, and cashback apps. Websites like RetailMeNot, Rakuten, and Honey often feature discount codes that can be applied at checkout, helping to reduce the overall cost of your purchase.
Cashback apps like Rakuten or Swagbucks allow you to earn cashback on your purchase, either as a percentage of the total cost or through cashback offers from specific retailers. Using these tools can help you save extra money on top of any ongoing sales or discounts.
Buy Refurbished or Open-Box Items
If you're looking for the best deals on smart thermostats and energy monitors, consider purchasing refurbished or open-box items. Refurbished products have been restored to like-new condition and are often sold at a lower price. These items are typically backed by warranties, giving you peace of mind that they will function properly.
Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and eBay offer refurbished and open-box smart thermostats and energy monitors at a fraction of the cost of brand-new items. Look for deals on refurbished models from brands like Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell to save money without compromising quality.
Opt for Older Models
While the latest smart thermostat models often come with new features, older models are still highly effective and may be available at a steep discount. For example, when Nest or Ecobee release a new version of their smart thermostat, the previous generation often sees a significant price drop. These older models still offer excellent energy-saving capabilities and smart features, making them a great option for budget-conscious buyers.
Before purchasing a new model, consider whether you need the latest features or if an older, more affordable model will meet your needs. Often, the price difference between the latest and previous versions is substantial, and the older model may still offer all the functionality you need.
Bundle with Other Smart Devices
Many retailers offer bundle deals that include a smart thermostat along with other smart home devices, such as smart plugs, light bulbs, or security cameras. These bundles are often sold at a lower price than purchasing the devices individually. Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot frequently offer bundle promotions, especially during major sales events.
For example, you may find a deal where you can purchase a Nest Thermostat along with Nest smart plugs at a discounted rate. Bundling devices is a great way to save on your overall smart home setup while upgrading multiple areas of your home at once.
Look for Free or Discounted Installation
Some retailers and utility companies offer free or discounted installation when you purchase a smart thermostat or energy monitor. Installing a smart thermostat can be a bit challenging if you’re not familiar with electrical wiring, so opting for a professional installation service can save you time and stress.
Retailers like Best Buy or Home Depot often offer installation services at a reduced rate when you purchase a smart thermostat. Additionally, some utility companies offer free installation as part of their rebate program, allowing you to save on both the device and the cost of professional installation.
Use Financing or Payment Plans
If you want to invest in a smart thermostat or energy monitor but don’t want to pay the full cost upfront, consider using financing or payment plans. Many retailers offer interest-free financing for a set period, allowing you to spread the cost of the device over several months. Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot often offer financing options that make it easier to purchase smart home devices.
Financing is particularly useful if you’re buying a more advanced (and expensive) model but still want to stick to your monthly budget. Just make sure to read the fine print and ensure that the financing terms work for you.
Check Manufacturer Websites for Discounts
Sometimes the best deals can be found directly through the manufacturer’s website. Brands like Ecobee, Nest, and Honeywell often offer direct discounts, promotions, or free shipping on their products. Checking the manufacturer’s website can help you find exclusive deals or rebates that may not be available through third-party retailers.
Additionally, many manufacturers offer warranty extensions or free accessories when you purchase directly from their website, adding extra value to your purchase.
Smart thermostats and energy monitors can significantly reduce your home’s energy usage and save you money on utility bills. By shopping during sales events, taking advantage of rebates, using coupons, and considering refurbished models, you can find these devices at a fraction of their original cost. With the right approach, you can enjoy the benefits of smart home technology while staying within your budget.
