Who would pay $250.00 for a thermostat when your old one still works?  If you did want an "energy saver" stat, you can find a good selection at the home stores for under $50.00 that can be programmed each day of the week.  Seems at first a dumb move to even consider this new "smart thermostat" called Nest that you will be hearing about soon.

Called the Nest Learning Thermostat this new device can have a large impact on energy reduction in our homes and workplaces.  What is most unique about the Nest is the ability to learn how the controlled heated or cooled area is used and then to automatically adjust the set-point settings to reduce energy costs.  The unit can sense temperature, humidity, light, and movement and will begin to learn when the area is not occupied.  If the temperature is typically reduced at closing or at bedtime, the Nest will begin to do the setback automatically. 

The Nest looks very different from our typical round Honeywell thermostat found in most homes and many offices.  The form is simple with only one button and a very visible temperature display.  The designers worked for Apple on the IPod and IPhone and have kept a design that is very easy to use and understand.  You can connect via a wireless system and use your IPhone, IPad, or computer to monitor and adjust the system when you are away.

Another great feature is called "time to temperature" which will display the time until the set-point temperature will be reached.  Many people think that a heating or cooling system is somehow like our cars.  If we give it more gas it will go faster, so setting the thermostat higher or lower will make the area comfortable in less time.  This feature tells you how long until the comfort temperature will be reached and will prevent changing set-points.

If homeowners and businesses can get the estimated 20-30% reduction in energy savings, this $250 thermostat will have a quick payback on investment and will have a huge impact on over energy use if the product becomes widely used.

Check out:  http://www.nest.com/?gclid=CPiA4PnIhqwCFYeI5godwgZbDQ for additional information.