The Marketing vs. Reality
Thermostat manufacturers claim 20-30% savings. In practice, David sees 10-15% for most DC Metro homeowners — still significant on a $200+/month utility bill. The key variable is how you used your old thermostat.
When Smart Thermostats Deliver the Most Value
If you had a manual thermostat set to one temperature 24/7, a smart thermostat will save you real money by automating setbacks. If you already programmed your old thermostat well, the savings will be more modest — but the convenience is worth it.
The Installation Factor
David has seen homeowners install smart thermostats incorrectly — missing C-wire connections, wrong wiring, or incompatible setups that damage the HVAC system. Professional installation costs $100-200 and ensures everything works properly.
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