“For contractors, the ElitePRO creates an ongoing connection after installation,” Pat Tessier, vice president of product development for Honeywell Home and First Alert solutions at Resideo, said. “Because the ElitePRO is powered by Pro-IQ services, features like proactive system insights, contractor branding, remote configuration, and service reminders help contractors streamline labor, stay visible with homeowners, and create value over time.” 

Tessier said that as modern homes are becoming more connected and design-conscious, smart thermostats had to evolve beyond simple command-and-control devices.   

“Our goal was to give homeowners quick access to information, simple touchscreen interactions, and a personalized experience from a device that naturally fits into the broader smart home ecosystem,” Tessier said. “The 5-inch touchscreen features displays for IAQ visibility, weather forecasts, system status, and video doorbell streaming make the thermostat useful, intuitive, and worthy of a place on pros’ trucks or on a home's wall.” 

Contractors are already noting the benefits of streamlined labor, increased customer loyalty, and additional revenue streams generated after installation.   

“A consistent theme is that contractors are looking for ways to do more with less, especially as labor constraints continue across the industry,” Tessier said. “Features like device pre-registration, saved installer setup templates, remote configuration, and in-app support help simplify the installation process and reduce avoidable callbacks. Contractors also see the value in having system insights that help them move from reactive repairs to proactive service conversations.” 

Marketing and retention tools have also resonated, Tessier added. Contractors are noting how much the device can help the company be visible directly within the homeowner experience, such as their company’s logo and contact information on the thermostat display and in the mobile app. 

“Instead of relying on a sticker, magnet, search ads, or postcards, contractors can see how their brand stays connected to a product homeowners use regularly,” Tessier said. “That visibility helps make the contractor easy to remember and contact throughout the life of the system.” 

There are also opportunities for service reminders, custom alerts, and click-to-book options.  

The installation process has also been simplified through familiar hardware like the Honeywell Home UWP wall-mounting plate, one-touch installer setup configuration templates, device pre-registration, and remote configuration tools designed to reduce setup time and limit unnecessary callbacks caused by configuration issues. 

Homeowners are also enjoying the five-inch touchscreen, which is designed to provide quick access to information such as temperature, weather, IAQ, and system status. They can also customize idle screens with design themes and color combinations that allow the thermostat to better match their style. Smart home compatibility and video doorbell integration have also stood out, as the ElitePRO allows homeowners to see and speak to visitors from the thermostat.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Ecoer TDi Select 2 Smart Inverter Heat Pump System 

The Ecoer TDi Select 2 Smart Inverter Heat Pump System earned an honorable mention for combining inverter-driven performance, intelligent diagnostics, low-GWP refrigerant, and contractor-friendly installation features in a residential HVAC platform. 

SMART INVERTER: The Ecoer TDi Select 2 Smart Inverter Heat Pump System earned an Honorable Mention in the Residential Product category of the HVAC All-Star Awards. Image courtesy of Ecoer

The system delivers efficiency ratings up to 18.5 SEER2 and uses R32 refrigerant to support evolving environmental standards. IoT-enabled diagnostics allow for real-time monitoring and remote fault identification, while automatic refrigerant charging, press-fitting refrigerant connections, and standardized 24V communication are designed to simplify installation and service. 

For technicians, those features can help reduce commissioning time, improve installation consistency, lower the risk of leaks, and allow contractors to use familiar controls and field practices without the added complexity of proprietary communicating systems. By pairing high-efficiency operation with connected diagnostics and practical installation features, Ecoer aims to make smart inverter technology easier for contractors to deploy in residential applications.

Samsung WindFree Premium

The Samsung WindFree Premium earned an honorable mention for its AI-driven ductless mini-split design, which combines quiet operation, adaptive controls, and room-by-room comfort for residential applications. 

PREMIUM MINI-SPLIT: The Samsung WindFree Premium earned an honorable mention in the Residential Product category of the HVAC All-Star Awards. Image courtesy of Samsung

The system uses WindFree airflow technology to deliver draft-free comfort, while AI-driven controls learn occupancy patterns and temperature preferences. A built-in motion sensor adjusts temperature settings based on activity, helping the system provide targeted comfort in bedrooms, living rooms, home offices, additions, and other spaces without existing ductwork. 

For contractors, the ductless design can allow for faster, less invasive installation than systems requiring ductwork. Smart connectivity and service tools support AI-assisted fault detection and performance monitoring, while modular components and accessible design features are intended to reduce service time. By combining ductless installation, adaptive controls, quiet operation, and occupancy-based efficiency features, the WindFree Premium gives homeowners a modern option for targeted comfort and energy management.