If you have a busy or inconsistent schedule, you may forget to adjust your thermostat to maximize comfort and save energy when you’re away from home. Fortunately, many smart thermostat models have a feature called geofencing that adjusts your heating and cooling system automatically.

How does it work?
Geofencing uses your smartphone to identify you and your home’s location. When you’re outside a certain boundary, your smart thermostat is alerted and the temperature is changed to a level that maximizes energy efficiency. When you get home, it’ll go back to the temperature you find comfortable.

How do I set it up?
Specific steps for setting up geofencing vary, but most brands have an app that allows you to enter your address. Make sure your Wi-Fi and location services are on and your airplane mode is off.

Where can I find a smart thermostat with geofencing?
FOCUS ON ENERGY^® offers an incentive on a variety of geofencing-capable smart thermostats, like Nest, ecobee and Honeywell. Check out the list of Pre-Qualified Smart Thermostat [PDF], then visit focusonenergy.com/smart to learn how to get your incentive.

Posted February 2019