The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium learns your routine and helps save energy. It works with Alexa, Google, and HomeKit for easy home control.
I’ve tested a lot of smart thermostats over the years. Some are simple Wi-Fi devices with apps that let you change the temperature from your couch. Then there’s the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium, which feels like it does everything but walk your dog.
In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience, what I liked, the quirks I ran into, and whether I think it’s worth the price.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this post:
- How easy it is to install and set up the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium.
- Explore the standout features that set it apart from other brands.
- Learn the ways this thermostat adapts to your home and lifestyle.
- Hear the pros and cons based on my personal experience.
- Understand the cost factors and decide if it’s worth the investment.
- Use these practical tips to get the most from your smart thermostat.
- Find answers to common questions and troubleshooting advice.
Getting Started with the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium: Installation and Setup
Setting up a smart thermostat can feel intimidating if you’ve never touched HVAC wiring. I’ll be honest: I was a little nervous. Luckily, Ecobee includes a C-wire adapter for older systems, which made things a lot easier. If you’re mildly handy, installation is surprisingly straightforward.
The Ecobee app walks you through the process step by step. My favorite part? It asks you to take a picture of your current wiring before you start. Trust me—this simple step saved me from at least one brain freeze moment.
Here’s my experience with installation, step by step:
Step 1: Turn off the power
Safety first. I turned off the power to my HVAC system at the breaker. It’s a quick step but essential.
Step 2: Remove old thermostat
The old thermostat came off easily. I labeled each wire with the stickers included in the Ecobee box. This makes reconnecting everything painless.
Step 3: Install the C-wire adapter (if needed)
If your system lacks a C-wire, Ecobee provides an adapter. I followed the instructions and connected it to the furnace. It’s not tricky, even for a non-electrician like me.
Step 4: Mount the Ecobee thermostat
The wall plate is optional, but it makes the thermostat look clean and professional. I used it, and it covered a small patch of old paint perfectly.
Step 5: Connect to Wi-Fi
You can type your Wi-Fi name and password directly on the device. My network name was a bit long, which caused a few errors, but a restart of both my phone and the thermostat solved it.
Step 6: Pair with the app and sensors
The app walks you through pairing your thermostat and room sensors. Simply scan a QR code on each sensor, and they’re ready to go.
After setup, I was impressed with how smooth and intuitive everything felt.
Top Features That I Loved
I’m not easily impressed, but the Ecobee Premium has some features that genuinely made me smile.
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Geofencing Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
Your thermostat detects when you’re home or away using your phone. It adjusts the temperature automatically, saving energy without you lifting a finger. I love that I don’t have to remember to turn it down when leaving for work.
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External Room Sensors Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
Every home has that one room that’s either freezing or sweltering. The Ecobee comes with room sensors that track multiple areas. I put one in my office and one in the living room. It “follows” me around, adjusting the temperature where I am. Bonus: My cat was fascinated by the sensors—they double as tiny toys.
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Smart Home Integration
Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit—you name it. The thermostat connects with your ecosystem for seamless control. You can even use it alongside ecobee’s other devices, like their doorbells or security systems.
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Manual Scheduling
If you like full control, the 3-inch touchscreen is intuitive. You can set a schedule for a single day and copy it across the week. It’s flexible and easy to tweak.
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Bluetooth Speaker
Yes, it’s a thermostat, but it can play music too. Writing this review while listening to a playlist from the wall-mounted device felt oddly futuristic.
Comfort and Convenience in Real Life
The first few days of using the Ecobee felt like having a personal assistant. My office was always the perfect temperature in the morning, and my living room stayed cozy when I returned home in the evening.
Here are a few real-world scenarios I tested:
Winter mornings: The office was warmed up before I even got there.
Summer afternoons: Geofencing adjusted the AC automatically when I left the house.
Multiple rooms: The living room and office stayed at different temperatures, perfect for my family’s varying preferences.
Music playback: Surprisingly decent for a small Bluetooth speaker—enough to keep me entertained while working.
The sensors and geofencing took the guesswork out of comfort settings. I genuinely enjoyed the experience of “smart comfort” without needing to touch the thermostat most days.
Advanced Tips to Optimize Your Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
To get the most out of your ecobee, I recommend:
- Place sensors thoughtfully: in rooms you spend the most time in and away from direct sunlight.
- Use geofencing: it’s more accurate than you think and saves energy automatically.
- Leverage smart integrations: Pair with your smart lights, security system, or even voice assistants for hands-free control.
- Track energy reports: Check the app to see energy usage and adjust schedules if needed.
- Look for rebates: Utilities often offer discounts—don’t pay full price if you can snag a deal.
- Pair With Other Devices: If you’re serious about a smart home ecosystem, Ecobee plays well with other devices.
Pro tip: If your thermostat isn’t turning on or behaving oddly, check out my guide here on the Ecobee thermostat not turning on for quick fixes.
Comparison Table: Ecobee vs Competitors
Here’s how the Ecobee Premium stacks up against two other top competitors—the Nest Thermostat and the Honeywell Smart Thermostat. This quick comparison highlights features, integrations, and pricing so you can choose the right fit for your home.
| Feature | Ecobee Premium | Nest Thermostat | Honeywell Smart Thermostat |
| ————————–| —————————| ————————– | ——————————- |
| External Room Sensors | Yes (included) | No | Optional |
| Geofencing | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Smart Home Integration| Alexa, Google, HomeKit | Alexa, Google, HomeKit | Alexa, Google |
| App Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Speaker | Yes | No | No |
| Price | $250 | $230 | $200 |
Each thermostat has its strengths. Ecobee Premium stands out for its built-in Bluetooth speaker and superior room sensors, while Nest offers a sleek design and reliable geofencing. Honeywell, on the other hand, delivers solid performance at a lower cost, perfect for budget-conscious users.
From my perspective, Ecobee’s room sensors and geofencing make it stand out. If your home heats or cools unevenly, these features make a noticeable difference.
Cost and Value: Is the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium Worth It?
The Ecobee Premium isn’t cheap—around $250—but think of it as a lifestyle investment.
Energy savings: Energy Star estimates around $50 per year, which means a payback period of ~5 years.
Alternatives: The Amazon Smart Thermostat can offer similar features at a lower price and faster ROI.
Rebates: Local utility programs often provide discounts or free devices.
For me, the extra features and comfort were worth the price. If you enjoy tech that integrates seamlessly into daily life and makes small but noticeable improvements, this thermostat delivers.
Pros and Cons From My Experience
Pros:
1. Smart sensors intelligently adjust the temperature based on room conditions.
2. The touchscreen and mobile app are both highly intuitive and user-friendly.
3. Compatibility extends to Alexa, HomeKit, and Google Home for easy integration.
4. It even doubles as a Bluetooth speaker, adding extra value.
Cons:
1. The upfront cost is relatively high compared to other models.
2. Setting up Wi-Fi and HomeKit can be tricky for first-time users.
3. Energy savings take time to offset the initial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I install it without a C-wire?
Yes, the included adapter lets you use it even with older HVAC systems.
Q2: How much energy can I realistically save?
Energy Star estimates around $50 per year, but sensors and geofencing can increase savings.
Q3: Will it work with all smart home ecosystems?
Yes—Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit are all compatible.
Q4: Are external sensors easy to set up?
Yes. Scan the QR code, place the sensor, and you’re done. Even my cat could have done it.
Q5: Does it really improve comfort?
Absolutely. The thermostat adjusts multiple rooms dynamically, eliminating freezing or overheated spots
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a thermostat that’s smart, versatile, and even a little fun, the Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium delivers. It’s not just a temperature controller—it’s a small piece of a connected home ecosystem.
Would I pay full price? Probably, yes—but I’d hunt for a rebate first. For professionals like us who enjoy convenience, efficiency, and the occasional wall-mounted playlist, this thermostat hits the mark.
It might feel like a Cadillac, but for some, it’s a Cadillac worth owning.