Heating

A smart thermostat choice depends on how it connects, what it can sense and how much power it draws while idle. The figures below are calculated from the official ENERGY STAR data for 115 certified smart thermostat models (listings of the same model are merged; data updated 2026-11-06).

What matters when choosing

Connectivity

ENERGY STAR lists the communication methods for each model: 97 of 115 list Wi-Fi, 34 Bluetooth, 10 Z-Wave and 8 Zigbee. Check that the method matches your router or hub; the dataset does not state which heating and cooling systems each model works with (n/c).

Control features

Makers report which control features a model has. Of 115 models, 89 list time-of-day usage, 70 humidity sensing, 52 geofencing and 50 an occupancy sensor. Pick the features you will actually use; the list shows what is reported, not how well each one works.

Standby power

Network standby power is listed from 0.04 to 2.59 watts across the certified models, with a median of 0.6 W. Compare it between models if idle energy matters to you.

Temperature accuracy

Static temperature accuracy is listed from 0.06 to 1.79 (median 0.52); a smaller figure is a smaller listed deviation. It describes the thermostat’s reading, not how even the temperature is across a room.

Compatibility and installation

ENERGY STAR does not list wiring, system type or installation requirements (n/c). Use the maker’s compatibility checker for your heating and cooling equipment before ordering.

Skip this category if

  • Your heating or cooling equipment is not on the maker’s compatibility list for the thermostat you are considering.
  • You only need a basic fixed-temperature control and do not plan to use connectivity, scheduling or sensing features.

Shortlists by use

Each list applies one stated rule to official data — ENERGY STAR listings (115 models in our data, updated 2026-11-06).

Model data pages

We compile and compare published data; we do not run our own product tests. See How We Compare.