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 further fueled by the heavy marketing of sleek new models, like the Nest thermostat, that are now offered through electronics retailers and big-box stores.
However, many industry contractors have yet to reap significant benefits. Despite the availability of quality Wi-Fi-enabled products from leading thermostat manufacturers, a mere 10-15% of residential and light commercial installations involve such models. The primary objection? A wholesale price point that is 4-5 times the cost of a traditional thermostat.