A good quality smart thermostat for a dual transformer system makes the home temperature comfortable. It also has a positive impact on the house budget and energy bill. But what is a dual transformer system? A dual transformer system means you have a separate R wire for heat and cool (Rh and Rc respectively).
Finding a good thermostat is easy, however, finding one that’s compatible with a dual transformer system can get tricky. That’s why we have done all the leg work for you.
Following are our 3 best smart thermostats for dual transformer system, let’s begin with the review.
1. [amazon link=”B06W56TBLN” title=”Ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat ” /] – Best Overall
Rating: 4/5
- Built-in Alexa
- Allows smart home integration
- EnergyStar certified
- SmartSensor manages hot/cold spots
- 3-year limited warranty
Ecobee3 Lite is the perfect product that is quite affordable. Even at almost half the price of its competitor, this product features all of the qualities of a worthy smart thermostat.
To start with our favorite feature, Ecobee3 Lite has advanced control. This means you can access the thermostat from anywhere in the world using your Android or iOS devices. In addition to that, you can connect it with your preferred smart home system. The device works with AppleHomeKit, Google Assistant, and SmartThings. Furthermore, the built-in Alexa makes using the thermostat easier.
In terms of saving energy, Ecobee3 is EnergyStar certified and claims you can save up to 23% annually on heating and cooling. The device is easy to install, easy to operate, and aesthetically pleasing with an interface that shows humidity and a 5-day forecast.
Some drawbacks, however, are that the Wi-Fi reconnection is troublesome, installation requires C-wire and even though the product has a 3-year limited warranty, the customer service is inadequate.
Overall, the product is good for folks who want an inexpensive smart thermostat that is packed with premium features.
2. [amazon link=”B01MXC366M” title=”3rd Gen Google Nest Learning Thermostat” /] – Best Premium
Rating: 5/5
- Programmable smart thermostat
- Energy History
- Battery-Powered
- EnergyStar certified
- Home/Away assist
This 3rd generation Google Nest thermostat seems similar to the AI devices shown in sci-fi movies. Why? Well, this is not a basic programmable smart thermostat. But, it can learn and adapt to your preferences.
By using the data (schedule and temperature), Google Nest smart thermostat programs itself. Furthermore, the Home/Away assist turns off the heating/cooling when a room is empty to save energy. This leads us to the EnergyStar certification. Just like Ecobee3 Lite, this product also saves 23% heating and cooling cost annually.
In case of some abnormality in the heating and cooling, the device sends an emergency notification to your smart devices. You can also check your energy history with one touch to find out how much energy was used at what time. This way you can save yourself from wasting energy and money.
Nest smart thermostat is one of the easiest products to install with a dual transformer system. As this thermostat is battery-powered, you don’t need a C-wire. The elimination of the C-wire requirement quicks up the installation process.
One disadvantage is that the device requires time to learn your schedule. Many customers have reported that due to low data during the first month, the thermostat fails to set the temperature to a suitable degree.
In conclusion, this smart thermostat is perfect for people who are looking forward to introducing a hi-tech HVAC monitoring device to their smart home.
3. [amazon link=”B01N3CEUDH” title=”Emerson Sensi Smart Thermostat” /] – Best Budget & Best Value
Rating: 4.5/5
- Works with Alexa
- EnergyStar certified
- Usage report
- Smart alerts
- 3-year limited warranty
Emerson Sensi smart thermostat might be the savior of people on a budget. First of all, the product itself is one of the most inexpensive smart thermostats on market. Secondly, as it is EnergyStar certified it saves up to 23% on heating and cooling costs annually. However, Emerson Sensi is more than just an affordable product.
It is smart home compatible. For instance, you can connect Emerson Sensi with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, AppleHomeKit, SamsungSmartThings, and other smart home platforms for easy access. The thermostat can also be controlled via an iOS or Andriod device from anywhere in the world. In this way, you can keep an eye on your HVAC even when not home and monitor inconsistency in energy usage.
The Usage Report feature is also handy when it comes to evaluating when and how much energy was consumed. But you won’t be needing this feature as if the thermostat detects any abnormality in the energy usage it sends a smart alert to notify the owner.
However, there’s a catch. Emerson Sensi requires a C-wire. So, if this doesn’t fret you, go ahead. Because in the big picture, the thermostat offers good value at such a low price point and comes with a 3-year warranty.
Buying Guide: Smart Thermostat for Dual Transformer System
1. Separate Rh and Rc Port
Don’t know if the thermostat is compatible with a dual transformer system? To check the compatibility with your dual transformer system you should check if it features a separate port for Rh and Rc wires.
2. Geofencing
In simple words, the Geofencing feature uses the phone GPS to establish a perimeter around your house. Then whenever you leave the house the thermostat is turned off automatically to save energy.
3. Remote Access
Most smart thermostats are connected to a home Wi-Fi network and can be controlled via a smart app. This way you can control your HVAC system from anywhere in the world.
4. Smart-Home System Integration
The smart-home system integration is as it sounds. With this feature, you can connect your thermostat to your smart hub. Furthermore, you can use it with your Alexa or Google voice assistant for easy access.
5. User Interface
A simple user interface where the main functions are 1 touch away saves your time and provides a hassle-free operation. Not only the smart thermostat itself should feature a user-friendly interface. But the thermostat app should also be easy to use.
6. Ease of Installation
To save money on professional thermostat installation, get one that is easy to install. Most of the smart thermostats come with a handy instruction manual that explains the job easily.
7. Warranty and Refund Options
Even if you are buying the best smart thermostat on market, make sure the product comes with a refund option and warranty. So, in case of a defective piece, you can return the smart thermostat.
Conclusion
The competition was fierce as all three smart thermostats are unique. However, x is the clear winner here. It is battery-powered hence easy to install, programmable, and can learn your schedule, has a clean interface, and most importantly SmartHome compatible.
These were our 3 best smart thermostats for a dual transformer system. Hope you find the best product for your smart home.
