GoControl Thermostat Review

Have you ever wanted to turn on the AC or heat before you got home, so you could walk into a comfortable house? Then it’s worth checking out the GoControl Thermostat.

As far as smart climate control devices go, this model claims to provide a great experience. It allows you to control your thermostat from your phone, is easy to set up, and is very easy to use.

Unfortunately, however, not everyone is after the same thing when it comes to smart devices. Some people might have problems with using a battery-powered device, while others may find an issue with the screen.

Is this the smart thermostat for you? Does it fit the bill for what you’re after? Let’s take a closer look at the GoControl Thermostat and find out.

GoControl Thermostat: The Details

Specs

• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.2 x 2.1 inches.
• Product Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Product Type: Smart thermostat.
• Compatible with Amazon Alexa? Yes.

How Does It Work?

Installing a device into your wall may sound daunting. Luckily, however, the GoControl Thermostat’s set-up is a straightforward process – so long as you have the right tools.

The first step is to remove your old thermostat from the wall. Once you have it unmounted and the wires disconnected, you can begin installing your new one.

Start by installing the back panel of the GoControl. You need only place the panel on the wall and insert a couple of screws. It’s recommended to use a level to ensure it is straight, but that plays into the aesthetic, not the functionality of the device, so it’s up to you.

From there, connect the correct wires from your HVAC system to the GoControl’s back panel. The instruction manual will guide you through this. Then, mount the thermostat display and cover by simply pressing it to the backplate until it snaps.

Install the batteries (four AAs, which are included) if you are not using the C wire from your HVAC system.

Now you can set up the clock; whether you want the air conditioning, fan, or heater on; and set the temperature it should consistently maintain. Once that’s done, you should connect the thermostat to your Z-wave system.

From your Z-wave controller, go to the “add or install” mode and add the GoControl as a new node in your network. Press any button on the thermostat to wake it from “sleep” mode and then press and hold the “fan” button for five seconds.

The set-up menu will display. Using the arrow buttons, scroll to Z-wave and press “select.” From your Z-wave controller, press the “yes” button and then press “select” to add the thermostat to your network.

Wait for the display line to flash “success” – and you’re all set! It requires some time, but once it’s set up, you never have to do it again.

If you already have the Z-Wave app, you can now control your thermostat from your phone. If not, simply download it from your app store.

In order to control the GoControl via Amazon’s Alexa, you’ll need a separate hub, which is an extra purchase.

Nortek: The Brand

The GoControl Thermostat is made by a company called Nortek Security and Control. Nortek was founded in 1961 by two engineers.

In 1962, the company created the first garage door receiver link transmitter and became known for its radio frequency product development.

According to their site, they provide the “leading security, intelligent home, audio/video, and health/wellness technology solutions.” Nortek’s headquarters are in Carlsbad, California.

GoControl Thermostat Review

The Positives

Very Easy to Set up

While set-up may require around 30 minutes to an hour, the steps are very easy to follow. You need only install the back plate, link up the correct wires, and then snap the front plate into its designated position.

From there, it’s just choosing the settings you prefer and connecting the thermostat to your Z-wave system. Even those with no tech-savvy or electrical knowledge can handle it without struggle.

We loved this about the GoControl Thermostat. While some new climate control systems mean a call to an electrician, GoControl makes it easy by keeping the install process simple to follow.

The instructions will help to guide you through where to connect the wires in an easy step-by-step process. You’ll likely have no issue at all!

Painlessly Easy to Use

Using the GoControl Thermostat is even simpler than installing it. There are several different buttons and menus that provide you with full control over the temperature of your home.

For example, the “mode” button switches between your heating and cooling systems, while the “fan” selection button controls the fan.

Use the arrow buttons to move the temperature up and down and you can also use it to scroll through any menus. The display shows the temperature of the room bright and clear so you always know where to adjust from.

However, if you don’t want to use any of the manual buttons, you can control it all from your phone or Z-wave controller. You won’t have to get out of bed on a cold day before hitting up the thermostat, you can stay cozy in your blanket until it warms up to your preference.

The inclusion of Amazon Alexa makes it all the easier to use the GoControl thermostat. While using it from your phone makes the process breezy, using Alexa means you won’t even have to lift a finger.

Just tell Alexa where you want the temperature to be set at it and you’re all good to go!

Control It From Anywhere

On that now, we really liked the level of convenience this GoControl provides. If you’re away from home, you can turn on the AC or the heat, ensuring the house is comfortable when you arrive.

If you have animals at home and know that the thermostat is set too high, you can easily change the temperature range remotely, so your pets can enjoy a cool afternoon while they wait for you.

Even if you change your mind about the ideal temperature while cozy in bed, access to your phone and Alexa can have you bringing your home to the right setting without getting up. It’s never been easier!

You’ll never have to double-guess if you’ve forgotten to turn the heat off either, saving you a ton of money and stress in the long run. Since this is a programmable thermostat, you can even put it on a schedule to match your routine in the morning and evening.

The convenient features of the GoControl really make all the difference.

Super Sleek

While most thermostats, even smart ones, look clunky, protruding out of your wall, the GoControl has taken another path.

The design is actually quite sleek and modern, blending seamlessly into a variety of homes and decor choices. The controls are easy to see and use, along with display panel, so you’re not second-guessing when looking at your thermostat.

This modern device has a modern style to match, adding a contemporary flair without stealing all of the attention. This opens up a variety of places where you can put this thermostat.

Incredibly Affordable

One thing’s for sure, you won’t be breaking the bank when it comes to owning this thermostat. Most smart products come at a pretty penny, fortunately, the GoControl Thermostat is priced affordably at under $100 on Amazon.

Since a number of devices cost hundreds of dollars, this definitely puts the GoControl in a very competitive spot on the market. Customers will also have a 1-year warranty included with the purchase of the GoControl.

This warranty protects you against any faults caused in the manufacturing process. Should something not work as advertised, simply contact the company and they’ll repair or replace your device.

Having this thermostat will be affordable in the beginning, but will also continue to help you save money in the long run.

Since heating and cooling your home tend to account for a large portion of your bills, the GoControl will help you conserve energy so you won’t be gawking at your electricity bill anytime soon.

The Negatives

Iffy Battery Life

A few users also commented on the low battery life. With fresh batteries, this device only lasts a couple of weeks before needing replacements.

Fortunately, the GoControl comes with a couple of batteries to start, but you’ll still likely have to buy a number of batteries afterwards which could turn this device into a costly one.

This may be a reason to connect the thermostat to your C wire. You won’t have to deal with batteries, but if that’s not an option, you may have to stock up.

Screen Might Freeze

Some testers also had the display screen freeze up after a few uses. This problem couldn’t be resolved until they reset the entire system.

While unfortunate, this may be due to a few bad eggs escaping the manufacturing process. If an issue like this persists, it might be time to use that warranty.

Overall Verdict

After going through all the positives and negatives, we recommend the GoControl Thermostat.

With the easy set-up, the clever interface, and the convenience of controlling it from anywhere, this is definitely a well-thought-out smart device. That said, the battery life and the screen issues might not make it the best fit for everyone.

Thankfully there’s a warranty to take care of any lemons and fortunately, there’s a ton of great features packed into this sleek device that still grants it a recommendation.

In the end, it’s a convenient, money-saving device, that makes making your home comfortable all the easier.

Where to Buy the GoControl Thermostat

Thanks to their great design and affordability, GoControl has become a popular brand with some sought-after items. They have a large line of home improvement products from lightbulbs to smart locks.

Their success makes it easy to find their items in stores across North America including the GoControl Thermostat, available both in-store and online.

While it’s usually best to check tech and home improvement stores, you can kick-start your search with the following online retailers.

• Alarm System Store (from $99)
• Wal Mart (from $79)
• Home Controls (from $99)

And of course, you can also find this smart thermostat on Amazon.

That’s the end of our GoControl Thermostat review. Tempted to give it a try?