ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential now available


Back in January, we told you about the all-new Smart Thermostat Essential from ecobee. Is it an innovative product? Not at all. However, this new thermostat doesn’t need to break new ground. Instead, it aims to offer a reliable experience at an affordable price. Quite frankly, that’s really all a homeowner wants from a thermostat these days.
ecobee promised the Smart Thermostat Essential would hit stores in March, and wouldn’t you know it, we are now in March. And so, staying true to its word, the affordable thermostat can be purchased immediately.
ecobee introduces Smart Thermostat Essential


At CES 2025, ecobee announced the Smart Thermostat Essential, a new addition to its lineup of smart thermostats. Designed to offer affordability without compromising key features, the device includes a color touchscreen and aims to help users save on energy costs. According to ecobee, customers can reduce their annual heating and cooling expenses by up to 23 percent, potentially recouping the cost of the thermostat in just six months.
“We’re excited to add Smart Thermostat Essential to our lineup,” said Greg Fyke, President and CEO of ecobee. “This new model makes energy savings and comfort more accessible for more people.”
ecobee partners with San Diego Gas and Electric to alleviate California's power woes


While I am sure California is a nice place to live, it sure does seem like it has many problems. Not only does the state suffer from earthquakes, droughts, rampant homelessness, and wildfires, but increasingly, it is struggling to meet the electricity needs of its citizens. After all, as temperatures go up from global warming, more and more people will turn on air conditioners.
Thankfully, smart thermostats have the ability to alleviate some of these power consumption woes. You see, not only are these connected devices convenient, they can be controlled by the power companies during power usage spikes. With your permission, the power company can adjust your air conditioning slightly so that blackouts and brownouts can hopefully be prevented. Sometimes you will even be compensated for participating in such a thing.