### Home Energy Savings with Smart Thermostats
#### Can Renters Use Smart Thermostats? Smart thermostats are one of the easiest and most effective ways to save energy and reduce your utility bills. However, many renters wonder if they can use these devices in their rental properties. Fortunately, the answer is yes. Most smart thermostats can be installed and used by renters, with some notable exceptions. #### How to Install a Smart Thermostat
Installing a smart thermostat is a relatively simple process that requires a few basic steps:
* Shut down the power to the old thermostat
* Disconnect the wires from the old thermostat
* Take a photo of the wire contacts
* Install the new smart thermostat in the same location
* Connect the wires to the new thermostat
There are some variations to this process, depending on the specific thermostat model and the type of wiring used in the rental property. #### Getting Permission to Install a Smart Thermostat
Before installing a smart thermostat, renters need to get permission from their landlord or property management company. This is because some leases may specify that the owner is responsible for installing and managing the thermostat. Renters should check their lease agreement to see if there are any specific requirements or restrictions on installing a smart thermostat. They should then contact their landlord or property management company to request permission and to discuss the details of the installation. #### Smart Thermostat Savings
Smart thermostats can help renters save money on their energy bills by learning their temperature preferences and adjusting the temperature accordingly. * According to Google Nest research, renters can expect to save around $140 per year on their energy bills. * Ecobee’s higher-end models can save up to $250 per year. * Other experts estimate that smart thermostats can save renters even more money, depending on their specific circumstances. #### Smart Thermostat Models for Renters
There are many smart thermostat models available on the market that are suitable for renters. Some popular options include:
* **Amazon Echo Dot 5**: This smart thermostat can be controlled using an Echo Dot 5 as a satellite sensor and is available for less than $100. * **Ecobee Smart Thermostat**: This model is a popular choice among renters and offers advanced features such as learning temperature preferences and automatic adjustments. * **Nest Learning Thermostat**: This smart thermostat is known for its ease of use and advanced features such as remote temperature adjustments and automatic learning. #### Rental Owner and Smart Thermostat Controls
Some rental owners may only agree to install a smart thermostat if they have control over the temperature settings. However, this can be a concern for renters who want to save money on their energy bills. * Renters should research their local laws and regulations to determine if their landlord can control the temperature settings. * Some states and cities have laws in place that prevent landlords from lowering the temperature below certain levels. * Renters can consider connecting the smart thermostat to a local power utility program to automatically save money during peak use hours. #### Conclusion
Smart thermostats can be a great way for renters to save money on their energy bills. By following the steps outlined in this article, renters can install a smart thermostat and start saving money on their energy bills. However, renters should be aware of the potential risks and limitations of installing a smart thermostat in a rental property. * **Benefits:**
* Save money on energy bills
* Learn temperature preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly
* Automatic adjustments and remote temperature control
* **Risks and Limitations:**
* Landlord control over temperature settings
* Installation requirements and potential restrictions
* Potential for abuse or unauthorized use
By being aware of the benefits and risks of smart thermostats, renters can make an informed decision about whether to install one in their rental property.