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Rebates are now available for installing new wi-fi-enabled smart thermostats.

Heating and cooling costs account for around half of a user’s energy bill according to the U.S. Department of Energy. So, when it comes to reducing energy use and cutting home energy costs, the most impact can be made by programming the thermostat. The right thermostat settings could yield energy savings of 8-15%, and new technology is making it easier than ever to achieve those savings.  

Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi enabled and may be controlled remotely through a tablet, smartphone or voice control. Some models use multiple sensors to monitor temperatures in various parts of the home for more balanced heating or cooling, track user temperature preferences while using the data to optimize your heating and cooling schedule, and some are designed for complex multi-stage systems that will control heating, cooling, dehumidifier and ventilation systems. 

If you’re interested in controlling your thermostat with your voice or an app, or in being hands-off and letting it learn your habits, you should consider a smart thermostat. To narrow your choices, factor in smart features, price, and attributes that matter most to you, such as color, size or style, and make sure the chosen product supports your HVAC system. The Nest 3rd Generation Learning Thermostat and Ecobee4 are the most popular and sophisticated devices in this category. Both devices are usually priced around $250, but consumers can easily recoup their money in energy cost savings. Whichever fits your lifestyle and preferences, a smart thermostat is a good investment that can help you save energy and money in a more convenient way than ever. 

Visit siea.com/rebates and click on the  and click on the wi-fi enabled smart thermostat button to learn more about San Isabel Electric’s smart thermostat rebates. You can also call 800-279-SIEA (7432), Monday – Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or email empower@siea.com. 

Black Hills Energy has a similar program for their customers. For more information about BHE’s EV rebates and programs, please contact Black Hills Energy.