A smart thermostat is the cheapest HVAC upgrade you can make in Sacramento — and the easiest one to install wrong. Here's the field guide our techs use.
The 3 we install the most
- Ecobee Premium — best all-around, remote room sensors are the killer feature for two-story homes
- Google Nest Learning — cleanest interface, best if you're already in the Google/Home ecosystem
- Honeywell T10 Pro — best for zoned systems and multi-stage equipment
Compatibility check before you buy
- Confirm you have a C-wire (most Sacramento homes built after 2000 do)
- Heat pumps need thermostats with O/B terminals — not every model qualifies
- Multi-stage or dual-fuel systems need a thermostat that supports staging
- Zoning boards limit which thermostats will work — check the board model first
SMUD rebates you might qualify for
SMUD offers rebates for ENERGY STAR-certified smart thermostats when installed correctly. We handle the paperwork on any install we do.
What people get wrong installing them
- Wiring an old 2-wire system without adding a C-wire adapter (thermostat resets constantly)
- Setting aggressive setbacks that make the system short cycle
- Placing the thermostat in direct sunlight or near a supply vent
- Leaving factory schedules that don't match Sacramento's peak-rate hours
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a C-wire?+
Almost always yes. If you don't have one, we run one during install.
Can a smart thermostat really save 15%?+
Only if it's set up correctly, has schedules that match SMUD peak rates, and your ductwork isn't leaking.
Do you install customer-supplied thermostats?+
Yes — flat-rate pro install with wiring verification and system testing.
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