Talking Thermostat Can Be Controlled, Monitored Over Telephone

TalkingThermostats.com has released the Commstat CEO-24, a talking, telephone-controlled thermostat that can be controlled and monitored over a touchtone phone.

The thermostat "talks" to the homeowner, prompting for the system password, reporting the temperature, and asking if any changes should be made. (Click here to listen to a sample message.)

The telephone connection allows the thermostat, designed for vacation or second homes, to be adjusted over the phone before the homeowner arrives. Additionally, the CEO-24 can call up to three telephone numbers if the heating or cooling system fails.

The unit is priced at $325 and can connect an external device through an auxiliary input.