Best Programmable Thermostat Under $100 In 2023: For Every Budget!

Why Purchase a Programmable Thermostat?

The majority of thermostats available today are programmable, which means you can "program" them to follow a weekly temperature schedule. You can automate your home's temperature from sunrise to sunset with a programmable thermostat, reducing your energy consumption during the workday.

Some people recommend that you avoid programmable thermostats in favor of an internet-connected smart thermostat like the Ecobee. The ability to control smart thermostats via phone or voice assistant greatly simplifies programming. You can also program your smart thermostat to track your location and adjust the temperature as you leave and return home. However, for the vast majority of people, these features are simply not worth the money.

Is an Intelligent Thermostat Necessary?

Smart thermostats typically cost more than $100 and frequently exceed $200. A well programmed thermostat, on the other hand, should not cost more than $30 or $40. Furthermore, internet-connected devices such as smart thermostats are not guaranteed to work indefinitely. You will be forced to replace the thermostat if the manufacturer discontinues support for it in 2025 (or goes out of business).

Smart thermostats may be worth the investment if you are concerned about the temperature or have an abundance of smart devices. A programmed thermostat, on the other hand, is an inexpensive, long-lasting automated thermostat. Here are three outstanding options in each price range, as well as one standout option for homes with multistage HVAC systems.

How Do I Replace And Install A Programmable Thermostat?

If you want to replace and install the thermostat yourself - which is not difficult if you have a few handyman skills - the following is a summary.

• Turn off the power to the HVAC system at the breaker panel. Even if the wiring is low voltage, it is prudent to install a switch to avoid accidentally turning the furnace on and off.

• Remove the previous thermostat's thermostat faceplate. One or two screws will almost certainly need to be removed.

• Unscrew or remove the thermostat wires. 

If the thermostat is old, the wiring is probably held in place with screws. Remove the screws and use electrical tape to secure the thermostat wires to the wall. These wires should not be lost within the wall.

The previous thermostat mounting bracket must be removed.

• Connect the wiring to the new thermostat mounting bracket. 

Several modern thermostats do not have screw connectors, so the thermostat wire must be inserted into the appropriate connector. The green wire is threaded through the G connection. The red wire is connected to the R-connector, and so on.

• Screw in the replacement thermostat face.

• Reconnect the power at the breaker.

Is programmable thermostat worth the money?

According to ENERGY STAR, programmable thermostats can save homeowners up to $180 in energy costs per year when used properly. Because heating and cooling account for roughly half of your energy bills, having a programmable thermostat is a wise choice.

How much does a programmable thermostat cost?

They can help you save money on energy costs by turning off or changing the temperature on a predetermined schedule. These thermostats typically cost between $20 and $150.

Is a smart thermostat better than a programmable thermostat?

While programmable thermostats are useful, smart thermostats offer even more convenience. Energy savings can be increased by utilizing automated functions, real-time energy reporting and monitoring, and user-configurable settings.

It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to automate your home's temperature. While we have discussed some excellent programmable thermostats today, if these do not meet your needs, you may want to look into the best programmable thermostat under $100.