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How to Buy a Smart Thermostat

How to · Tech

How to Buy a Smart Thermostat

Lower your energy bills without buying twice by timing your purchase with rebates and using zero interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $250 before anything else
Across the 0% window $13.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $250 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A smart thermostat keeps your house at the right temperature and trims your heating and cooling bills, so you want one that lasts for years rather than a cheap model you have to replace next season. New versions drop every fall, which means you can usually grab last year's proven model at a discount right before the winter rush.

We can make the math easier on this about $250 purchase by spreading out the cost, as long as we keep an eye on the calendar. Here is the straightforward way to get it done.

Remember that the 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening is a hard deadline and not free money, so if you still have a balance left when it ends, you will get hit with standard interest on the original amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Check your local utility first

    Power companies almost always offer rebates on smart thermostats to cut down on peak grid usage. Look up your local provider before you buy so you know if they require a specific model to get your cash back.

  2. 02

    Wait for the release cycle

    Tech brands update these devices every year, which pushes the previous generation's price down. Buy the older model once the new one hits the shelves, because the features are almost identical for way less money.

  3. 03

    Set up your payment window

    If you want to split up the cost of the about $250 device, the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That works out to about $13.89 per month if you spread the base price across the entire intro window on purchases.

  4. 04

    Verify your wiring

    Pull your current thermostat off the wall and check the wires before you order a new one. Some advanced models need a C-wire for continuous power, and you want to know if you need an adapter kit ahead of time.

  5. 05

    File your rebate claim

    Submit your purchase receipt and installation confirmation to your utility company right away. They usually mail a prepaid card or issue a bill credit within a few weeks.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

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

Many modern thermostats need a common wire to stay charged. If your old setup does not have one, you can usually use an included power adapter or hire an electrician to run a new wire.

Will a smart thermostat actually lower my bills?

Yes, mostly by turning down the heat or AC when you are away or asleep. The savings depend on your climate and schedule, but most people make back the purchase price within a couple of years.

Can I install it myself?

Most people can swap an old thermostat for a new one in about thirty minutes with a screwdriver. Just turn off the power at your breaker box before you touch any wires.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment during the 0% period?

Missing a payment can cancel your promotional rate early and trigger penalty fees. Set up autopay for at least the minimum amount so you do not accidentally lose the zero interest benefit.