Market Trends Converge to Drive Sales of Affordable Wi-Fi Enabled Thermostats
HVAC contractors poised to reap benefits as Wi-Fi enabled thermostat prices drop
Demand for Wi-Fi enabled thermostats is skyrocketing as consumers seek out the convenience of controlling home or office temperatures through their smartphones or tablets. This trend is being further fueled by the heavy marketing of sleek new models, like the Nest thermostat, that are now offered through electronics retailers.
However, HVAC contractors have yet to reap significant benefits. Despite the availability of quality Wi-Fi enabled products from leading thermostat manufacturers, a mere 10 to 15 percent of residential and light commercial installations involve such models. The primary objection: a wholesale price point that is four to five times the cost of a traditional thermostat.