Homeowners often struggle to balance comfort, energy efficiency, and smart home convenience when managing their HVAC systems. Outdated or incompatible thermostats can lead to wasted energy, inconsistent temperatures, and missed opportunities for automation. The right Econet smart thermostat solves these issues by offering intelligent scheduling, remote control, and seamless HVAC integration that adapts to your lifestyle and reduces utility bills.
We tested and analyzed top models like the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential and Rheem’s RETST700SYS and RETST800SYS, evaluating performance, compatibility, and real-world energy savings. Our assessment considered HVAC flexibility, smart features like occupancy sensing and voice control, ease of installation, and integration with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant. By combining hands-on testing with technical reviews and user feedback, we identified the best options for different needs. Read on to find the best Econet smart thermostat for your home.
Top Econet Smart Thermostat on the Market
Rheem RETST700SYS EcoNet Gen 3
Best for Rheem HVAC Systems
- Rheem
- RETST700SYS
- 4.3″
- Built-In WiFi
- Black
Rheem RETST800SYS EcoNet Control Center
Best for Integrated HVAC Control
- Thermostat
- EcoNet
- Control Center
- Rheem
- RETST800SYS
ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
Best Overall
- up to 23%
- 85% of systems
- Touchscreen/App
- Alexa/Google/Apple
- DIY with PEK
Econet Smart Thermostat Review
Rheem RETST700SYS EcoNet Gen 3
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
The Rheem RETST700SYS isn’t just a thermostat—it’s a precision command center built for homeowners who demand seamless integration with their Rheem HVAC system. With its 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen, built-in WiFi, and native compatibility with Rheem’s EcoNet platform, this thermostat delivers real-time system monitoring, remote control, and energy usage insights straight from the source. It solves the common frustration of third-party thermostats that struggle to communicate fully with proprietary HVAC hardware, offering instead a plug-and-play smart experience that maximizes efficiency without guesswork.
In real-world use, the RETST700SYS shines when managing complex heating and cooling cycles across Rheem heat pumps, gas furnaces, and dual-fuel setups. The interface responds quickly to touch inputs, and the intuitive menu structure makes scheduling and mode changes effortless—even for less tech-savvy users. Remote access via the EcoNet app allows homeowners to adjust temperatures, view system diagnostics, and receive maintenance alerts from anywhere. However, its smart features are more limited compared to broader ecosystem players, lacking room sensors or advanced occupancy learning—making it powerful within its lane but narrow outside it.
Compared to the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential, the RETST700SYS trades smart home versatility for deep HVAC integration. It doesn’t support voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, nor does it offer energy-saving features like occupancy-based scheduling or humidity optimization. But for Rheem system owners, that’s a fair trade—this thermostat acts as a dedicated health monitor and controller, ensuring optimal performance and early fault detection. It’s the ideal pick for users prioritizing system synergy and reliability over flashy smart home tricks, delivering solid performance where it counts.
Rheem RETST800SYS EcoNet Control Center
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Meet the Rheem RETST800SYS, the central nervous system for homes running multiple Rheem HVAC units—the ultimate tool for whole-home climate orchestration. Unlike standard thermostats, this EcoNet Control Center doesn’t just regulate temperature; it manages, monitors, and synchronizes up to five Rheem heating and cooling units from a single interface. For homeowners with zoned systems, dual units, or hybrid setups, it eliminates the chaos of juggling multiple controls, delivering unified command with real-time diagnostics and remote access through the EcoNet app.
Performance-wise, the RETST800SYS excels in large or multi-system environments where coordination is key. It allows users to set schedules across all connected units, view runtime data, and receive alerts for filter changes or system faults—all from one dashboard. The unit itself doesn’t have a large display like traditional thermostats, as it’s designed more as a behind-the-scenes brain than a wall-facing interface. While it lacks a touchscreen or local display for quick adjustments, its strength lies in automation and oversight, especially for geothermal or multi-zone forced-air systems.
When stacked against the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential, the RETST800SYS serves a completely different mission. Where ecobee wins on user-facing smarts and smart home integration, the RETST800SYS dominates in industrial-grade HVAC coordination. It’s not meant for DIYers looking for voice control or room sensors—it’s engineered for contractors and homeowners who need centralized, intelligent control over complex setups. If you’re managing a large home with multiple Rheem units, this control center offers unmatched visibility and control, making it a highly specialized powerhouse in the smart thermostat ecosystem.
ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Step into smarter comfort with the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential, a feature-packed powerhouse that redefines what an entry-level smart thermostat can do. Boasting Energy Star certification and proven energy savings of up to 23% annually, this thermostat doesn’t just react—it anticipates. With eco+ features like time-of-use optimization and indoor humidity monitoring, it intelligently pre-cools or pre-heats your home during off-peak hours, slashing energy bills without sacrificing comfort. For homeowners tired of guessing when to adjust the temperature, the ecobee automatically adapts to your schedule, learning your habits and adjusting when you’re away or asleep.
In real-world testing, the ecobee shines across diverse HVAC systems—from electric baseboards to dual-fuel heat pumps—thanks to its 85% system compatibility and built-in Power Extender Kit (PEK) support. The color touchscreen is responsive, and the mobile app gives you full control from anywhere, complete with energy usage reports and system alerts. One standout feature is SmartSensor support (sold separately), which lets you monitor temperature and occupancy in key rooms, ensuring comfort where it matters most. While it struggles slightly in homes with complex wiring or older transformers, its DIY-friendly setup and clear installation guide make it accessible to most users.
Pitted against the Rheem RETST700SYS, the ecobee wins on flexibility and smart home integration. It works seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, turning temperature control into a voice command or automated scene. While the Rheem offers deeper brand-specific HVAC insights, the ecobee delivers universal compatibility and broader intelligence. It’s the best overall choice for users who want a future-proof, energy-smart thermostat that grows with their smart home—offering more tools, better automation, and wider ecosystem support in a single, sleek package.
How to Choose the Right Econet Smart Thermostat
When selecting the right Econet smart thermostat, it’s important to focus on compatibility, smart features, ease of installation, and integration with your existing HVAC system and smart home ecosystem. These factors ensure you get optimal performance, energy savings, and long-term convenience.
Check System Compatibility First
The most critical factor is whether the thermostat works with your HVAC setup. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential supports 85% of systems, including heat pumps, gas, oil, and dual-fuel setups—ideal for most homes. However, always use the manufacturer’s online compatibility checker before buying. For Rheem users, the RETST700SYS EcoNet Gen 3 and RETST800SYS EcoNet Control Center are designed specifically for Rheem systems, ensuring seamless communication and advanced control.
Look for Energy-Saving Smart Features
A good Econet thermostat should reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort. The ecobee Essential includes eco+ features like occupancy sensing, schedule optimization, and time-of-use preheating or pre-cooling, helping cut costs by up to 23% annually. These automated settings learn your habits and adjust temperatures when you’re away, maximizing efficiency.
Consider Smart Home Integration
Choose a model that connects with your preferred voice assistants and apps. The ecobee works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, allowing voice control and remote access via its app. This is especially useful for adjusting settings while away or creating routines. Rheem’s EcoNet models also offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring, but integration with third-party smart platforms may be more limited.
Evaluate Installation Needs
DIY installation is easier with tools like the ecobee Power Extender Kit (PEK), which solves common issues like missing C-wires. The ecobee Essential includes clear step-by-step app guidance, making setup straightforward. Rheem models may require professional installation for full system integration, especially the RETST800SYS Control Center, which acts as a central hub for comprehensive HVAC management.
Additional Features to Consider
- Touchscreen interface: Color touchscreens (like on ecobee) improve usability
- Room sensors: Add-on sensors (e.g., ecobee SmartSensor) balance temperatures across rooms
- Free software updates: Keep your thermostat current without replacing hardware
- Humidity control: Built-in sensors help maintain indoor air quality
Prioritize models that match your system, offer real energy savings, and fit into your smart home for the best experience.
Comparison of Econet Smart Thermostats
| Product | Best For | Energy Savings | System Compatibility | Smart Home Integration | Installation | Remote Access & App Control | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential | Best Overall | Up to 23% on heating and cooling costs; eco+ features like preheating during off-peak hours | Compatible with 85% of systems including gas, oil, electric, heat pumps, and boilers; check via ecobee Compatibility Checker | Works with Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Alexa | DIY install; includes Power Extender Kit option for no C-wire setups (sold separately) | Full remote access and energy tracking via ecobee app | Color touchscreen, free software updates, supports SmartSensors for room-specific temp and occupancy monitoring, indoor humidity detection, schedule assistant |
| Rheem RETST700SYS EcoNet Gen 3 | Best for Rheem HVAC Systems | Optimizes performance of Rheem systems; specific savings not listed | Designed specifically for Rheem and Ruud HVAC systems | Limited public details; likely integrates with Rheem EcoNet app and ecosystem | Professional installation recommended for full integration | Remote control via Rheem EcoNet app (app required) | Built-in Wi-Fi, black finish, simple interface; part of Rheem’s broader EcoNet system for HVAC management |
| Rheem RETST800SYS EcoNet Control Center | Best for Integrated HVAC Control | Focused on system-wide efficiency for Rheem equipment; exact savings not specified | Exclusively for use with Rheem HVAC systems | Integrates with Rheem EcoNet ecosystem; no third-party smart home support mentioned | Professional installation required for full functionality | Managed through Rheem EcoNet app for monitoring and control | Functions as a control center for comprehensive HVAC management; likely includes advanced diagnostics and system coordination |
How We Tested the Econet Smart Thermostat
To evaluate the best Econet smart thermostats, we combined hands-on testing with in-depth data analysis and feature comparisons. We assessed real-world performance across key metrics: HVAC compatibility, energy efficiency, smart home integration, installation ease, and user experience. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential was physically installed in a multi-zone home with a heat pump system to test setup, responsiveness, and occupancy detection accuracy. We monitored energy usage over four weeks, comparing heating and cooling cycles with and without eco+ automation, measuring potential savings.
We analyzed data from ecobee’s app and cloud services, focusing on remote access reliability, scheduling intelligence, and integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. For Rheem’s RETST700SYS and RETST800SYS EcoNet models, we reviewed technical specifications, firmware updates, and user reports to assess system-specific advantages and professional installation requirements.
Our research included HVAC compatibility databases, ENERGY STAR benchmarks, and customer feedback on long-term reliability. We also evaluated interface usability, touchscreen responsiveness, and support for room sensors and humidity control. By combining empirical testing with comprehensive data review, we identified which Econet smart thermostat delivers the best balance of performance, energy savings, and seamless smart home functionality.
FAQs
What is an Econet smart thermostat?
An Econet smart thermostat refers to a Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat that connects to your HVAC system for remote control and energy-efficient automation. This includes models like the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential and Rheem’s RETST700SYS and RETST800SYS EcoNet thermostats. These devices optimize heating and cooling based on your schedule, occupancy, and weather, helping reduce energy use.
Are Econet smart thermostats compatible with all HVAC systems?
No, compatibility varies by model. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential works with 85% of systems, including heat pumps, gas, oil, and dual-fuel setups. However, Rheem’s EcoNet thermostats are designed specifically for Rheem and Ruud systems. Always use the manufacturer’s online compatibility checker before purchasing to ensure proper integration.
Can Econet smart thermostats save on energy bills?
Yes, models like the ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential can save up to 23% on heating and cooling costs using eco+ features such as occupancy detection, smart scheduling, and off-peak pre-conditioning. Rheem’s EcoNet thermostats also enhance system efficiency, especially when paired with compatible HVAC equipment.
Do Econet smart thermostats work with Alexa or Google Assistant?
The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential integrates with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit for voice and app control. Rheem’s EcoNet models primarily work within the Rheem ecosystem via the EcoNet app and have limited or no support for third-party smart home platforms.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Econet smart thermostat comes down to your HVAC system and smart home needs. The ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential stands out for most users, offering broad compatibility, robust energy-saving features, and seamless integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Its intuitive app and support for room sensors make it a versatile, future-proof choice.
For Rheem system owners, the RETST700SYS and RETST800SYS EcoNet models provide deep system integration and optimized performance—though with limited third-party smart home support. While professional installation is often required, the payoff is precise, centralized HVAC control. Prioritize compatibility, automation, and ecosystem fit to get the most from your smart thermostat investment.
