ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium review

Are you looking for a smart thermostat that not only controls temperature but also monitors air quality and integrates with smart home devices?

ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air Quality Monitor — Quick Overview

You’re considering the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium with Smart Sensor and Air Quality Monitor — Programmable Wifi Thermostat – Works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant. It’s an ENERGY STAR certified thermostat designed to save up to 26% per year on heating and cooling costs while giving you advanced comfort and home monitoring features. The package includes a SmartSensor (a $50 value), a Power Extender Kit (PEK), and a Trim Kit to simplify DIY installation.

What’s in the box

You’ll get the thermostat itself, a SmartSensor to help manage hot/cold spots, the PEK for homes without a C-wire, and a trim kit for a neat finish. Everything you need to set it up yourself is included, which reduces the need for professional installation in many cases.

Why that matters

Having the PEK and sensor included removes two of the biggest barriers to upgrading your thermostat: wiring compatibility and room-level sensing. You can get the benefits without extra purchases if your system is compatible.

Key features at a glance

Below is a concise breakdown of core features so you can quickly see what matters most and how it fits your home.

Feature	What it does for you
ENERGY STAR certified	Helps reduce energy use; up to 26% annual savings (compared to holding 72°F/22°C)
SmartSensor (included)	Detects occupancy and temperature in another room to reduce hot/cold spots
Built-in air quality monitor	Alerts you when air quality drops, gives tips, and reminds you to change your furnace filter
Works with Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant	Voice control and smart home integrations; Siri requires an Apple Home Hub
Built-in speaker & voice assistant	Play music, podcasts, and use voice commands through the thermostat
Compatibility	Works with ~95% of 24VAC HVAC systems (furnaces, ACs, heat pumps, boilers, PTACs, fan coils)
Power Extender Kit (PEK) included	Enables installation in homes without a C-wire
Door/window open alerts	Pauses heating/cooling if a door/window is left open; requires sensor & Smart Security subscription for some features
ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera integration	Stream your door and talk through the thermostat for hands-free monitoring
Radar technology	Occupancy sensing and simple presence-based security features
Trim Kit	Clean finish for wall cutouts and compatibility with double-gang boxes

Short commentary

That table covers the essentials so you can quickly match features to your needs. You’ll want to check compatibility with the ecobee support page’s Compatibility Checker before purchase to confirm your HVAC wiring and system type.

Design and build quality

You’ll notice premium materials and thoughtful engineering when you handle this thermostat. The large, vibrant display and metal siding give it a high-end look and tactile feel, while the interface uses cinematic transitions for an intuitive experience.

Display, form factor, and aesthetics

The screen is large and vibrant, which makes temperature and air quality data easy to read from across a room. The metal siding gives the unit a durable, modern appearance that fits with contemporary interior designs.

Radar, sensors and physical controls

Built-in radar tech complements the included SmartSensor to detect occupancy and motion. Physical controls are minimal because much of the interaction is touch-based on the screen or handled through the app and voice commands.

Installation and setup

You’ll likely find installation straightforward if you’re comfortable with basic DIY and have checked compatibility. The included PEK helps in homes that lack a dedicated C-wire, and the trim kit helps hide any wall imperfections from your old thermostat.

Wiring and compatibility

The ecobee supports most 24VAC systems (2H/2C, heat pumps, boilers, PTACs, fan coil units). If you’re unsure, use ecobee’s Compatibility Checker on their support page. The PEK will be useful if you don’t have a C-wire, as it supplies the power you need without adding extra wiring.

Step-by-step setup expectations

You’ll mount the base, connect wires (following ecobee’s step-by-step app instructions), attach the trim kit, and register the device with the ecobee app. The app walks you through network setup, integration with assistants, and SmartSensor pairing.

Power requirements and the Power Extender Kit (PEK)

You’ll want reliable power for consistent performance. The PEK included is ecobee’s solution for homes without a C-wire, allowing installation where older thermostats operated on battery power.

How the PEK helps

If your furnace wiring lacks a C-wire, the PEK connects at the furnace control board to provide consistent power to the thermostat. That reduces installation friction and the need for hiring an electrician in many cases.

What to watch for

Make sure you follow the wiring diagrams carefully and double-check connections at the furnace. If your system is uncommon or has non-standard terminals, you may still need a professional.

Smart features and sensors

You’re buying more than a thermostat; you’re getting an ecosystem of sensors and features that can optimize comfort and save energy.

SmartSensor: room-by-room comfort

The included SmartSensor prompts the thermostat to make temperature adjustments based on occupancy and room temperature, helping to eliminate hot and cold spots. You’ll get better comfort in places like bedrooms or living rooms where temperature needs differ from the main hallway.

Occupancy sensing and radar technology

Built-in radar helps the thermostat determine whether the room is occupied and can adjust settings accordingly. This improves automated scheduling and reduces waste from conditioning empty rooms.

Air quality monitor

Your ecobee constantly monitors indoor air quality and will alert you when pollutants or humidity levels suggest action. It provides tips on improving air quality and sends reminders to change your furnace filter on schedule.

Door and window sensors, and open-window alerts

If a door or window is left open, ecobee can notify you and automatically pause heating or cooling after five minutes. Note that accessing some of these features (like automatic pause) requires the SmartSensor for doors and windows and an ecobee Smart Security subscription.

Security and doorbell integration

You can connect the ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera (wired) and view a live stream at your thermostat, plus use two-way talk. This is useful when you’re home and want to see who’s at the door without grabbing your phone.

Voice assistants and the built-in speaker

The thermostat includes a smart speaker and your choice of Siri or Alexa built-in. You can ask it to change temperatures, play Spotify, or launch podcasts. Siri requires an Apple Home Hub to be enabled.

App, ecosystem, and voice control

You’ll control most features through the ecobee app, voice assistants, or the device itself. The app gives you scheduling, reports, sensor controls, and energy-saving tools.

App usability and reporting

The app is user-friendly and provides detailed reports on energy usage and temperature trends. You’ll be able to see when the system runs, how much you’re saving, and tweak preferences for comfort and efficiency.

Integrations and smart home compatibility

It works with Alexa, Siri (via Home Hub), and Google Assistant, and integrates with other smart home platforms. You can include the thermostat in automations, scenes, and routines across your smart home ecosystem.

Energy savings and efficiency

You’ll likely notice lower energy bills when you take advantage of ecobee’s features. The thermostat is ENERGY STAR certified and ecobee estimates up to 26% annual savings compared to a constant 72°F/22°C hold.

How savings are achieved

Savings come from better scheduling, occupancy-based adjustments, remote sensors reducing wasted conditioning of empty rooms, and automatic pauses when doors/windows are open. Combined, these features reduce runtime and waste.

Practical savings scenarios

• Small home with single-zone HVAC: Your thermostat might reduce run time by running less during unoccupied hours and optimizing setpoints while you sleep, resulting in consistent savings month to month.
• Multi-room homes: Using multiple SmartSensors can eliminate inefficient single-zone control and reduce overconditioning in unused rooms, increasing savings further.
• Seasonality: Savings can be more pronounced in extreme heating or cooling months when runtime reduction has a larger impact.

Performance and comfort in daily use

You’ll get precise temperature control and improved comfort in targeted rooms. The SmartSensor’s influence means bedrooms and living areas stay closer to your preferred setpoints without overheating or overcooling the whole house.

Responsiveness and accuracy

The thermostat responds quickly to commands issued via app or voice. Temperature readings from the main thermostat and SmartSensors are reliable for typical home use. If you’re expecting laboratory-grade precision, consider professional-grade instruments, but for home comfort this is very good.

Multi-stage systems and compatibility

It supports two-stage HVAC systems, heat pumps including auxiliary stages, and many other common configurations. For more complex systems, verify compatibility via ecobee’s checker prior to purchase.

Air quality and health features

You’ll get more than temperature control; indoor air quality monitoring helps you maintain a healthier environment.

What the air quality monitor does

It monitors common indoor air parameters and alerts you when levels decline. The device offers practical tips—like increasing ventilation or running an air purifier—and tracks filter replacement schedules.

Practical tips the thermostat recommends

You’ll see recommendations such as opening windows briefly, running the HVAC fan to filter air, increasing filtration if you have allergies, or replacing filters based on runtime metrics.

Privacy and security considerations

You’ll appreciate privacy-focused settings, but it’s important to understand what data is collected and how integrations work.

Data and privacy basics

ecobee collects device performance and usage data to provide features like energy reports and occupancy detection. If you connect voice assistants or cameras, additional data flows through those services and are subject to their privacy policies.

How to protect your privacy

• Limit cloud integrations and use local controls where possible.
• Disable camera streaming or motion features if you prefer.
• Use strong Wi-Fi passwords and enable two-factor authentication for your ecobee account.
• Review and manage subscription and sharing settings for the Smart Security features.

Subscriptions and extra costs

You’ll get the core thermostat functions without a subscription, but some features—particularly advanced security or door/window sensor automations—may require an ecobee Smart Security subscription.

What’s included for free vs subscription

The thermostat, SmartSensor, and many automation features are included. The Smart Security subscription unlocks door/window sensor features and some enhanced monitoring/alerts. Make a note of which features you need and whether subscription costs fit your budget.

Pros and cons

You’ll want a balanced view before deciding. Here is a concise list of strengths and trade-offs.

Pros:

• ENERGY STAR certified and estimated up to 26% annual savings.
• Included SmartSensor and PEK increase out-of-the-box value and ease of installation.
• Built-in air quality monitoring with actionable tips and filter reminders.
• Large, vibrant display with premium materials and cinematic interface.
• Works with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant; built-in speaker supports media playback.
• Compatible with about 95% of 24VAC HVAC systems.
• Integrates with ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera for video and two-way talk.

Cons:

• Some advanced features (open-window automation) require extra sensors and subscription.
• Siri functionality requires an Apple Home Hub to enable.
• If your HVAC system is uncommon, you may still require professional help.
• Some users prefer thermostats without cloud integration for privacy reasons.

Who should buy this thermostat?

You’re a good fit for the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium if you want better room-level comfort, advanced air quality monitoring, and voice/smart home integrations. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a premium look, reliable energy savings, and included accessories to simplify installation.

Best use cases

• Larger homes that benefit from multiple sensors.
• Households that care about indoor air quality.
• Users who want integrated voice and media playback from the thermostat.
• Homes without a C-wire that need a PEK for installation.

Who might want to look elsewhere

If you prefer a minimal cloud footprint or want a purely local thermostat, consider other solutions. Also, if you don’t plan to use the extra sensors or voice features, a simpler thermostat might meet your needs at lower cost.

Setup tips and best practices

You’ll get the most from your ecobee by following a few practical tips during setup.

1. Check compatibility first: Use ecobee’s Compatibility Checker and confirm your furnace or furnace control board wiring.
2. Install the PEK if you lack a C-wire: Follow the wiring guide in the app to attach the PEK to your furnace control board.
3. Place the SmartSensor carefully: Put the sensor in rooms where temperature variance affects comfort—bedrooms or living rooms are common choices.
4. Pair sensors and name rooms: Label sensors and zones clearly in the app to make scheduling and rules straightforward.
5. Enable air quality notifications: Turn on the monitor and set notification thresholds if you want prompt alerts.
6. Set up voice assistants and speaker preferences: Ensure you have any required hubs (like an Apple Home Hub for Siri) and link your Spotify or streaming accounts for media playback.
7. Calibrate schedules: Use the app’s recommendations, then tweak schedules over a week to match your lifestyle.

Troubleshooting common issues

You’ll likely encounter a few hiccups during installation or use. Here are common problems and fixes.

• Wi-Fi connection problems: Restart your router, ensure you’re on 2.4GHz if the thermostat needs it, and verify password accuracy.
• Sensor offline: Replace batteries, move the sensor closer to the thermostat temporarily, and re-pair through the app.
• Compatibility errors: Double-check wiring and run the Compatibility Checker. If unsure, take photos of the furnace board and consult ecobee support.
• Voice assistant not responding: Re-link the service in the app, check network connectivity, and verify account credentials.
• Open-window alerts not working: Confirm you have the door/window SmartSensor and the Smart Security subscription (if required for that feature).
• PEK installation confusion: Follow the step-by-step app instructions and consult ecobee support videos if needed.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

You’ll probably have some follow-ups. Here are concise answers to common questions.

• Do I need a C-wire? Not necessarily. The included PEK allows installation in many C-wire-less homes.
• How many SmartSensors can I use? ecobee supports multiple SmartSensors; using several improves whole-home comfort.
• Does it work with my HVAC type? It’s compatible with most 24VAC systems — furnaces, ACs, heat pumps, boilers, PTACs, and fan coils. Verify with the Compatibility Checker.
• Is the air quality monitor accurate? It provides useful real-time trends and alerts, but it’s not a replacement for professional-grade air sampling.
• Do you need a subscription? Core thermostat functions work without subscription; some security and advanced automation features require ecobee Smart Security.

Final verdict

You’ll likely find the ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium a compelling option if you value energy savings, room-level comfort, air quality monitoring, and smart home integration. The inclusion of the SmartSensor and PEK increases out-of-the-box usability, and the premium build plus large display provides a modern, polished experience. If you want a feature-rich thermostat that also acts as a smart home hub for voice, audio, and doorbell integration, this unit offers a strong, user-friendly package.

If you care most about absolute privacy, minimal cloud dependency, or a lower-cost basic thermostat, consider other models. Otherwise, this ecobee is a robust, polished choice that brings comfort, savings, and air-quality awareness to your home.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.