I'm looking to replace a "dumb" thermostat in my house.
My biggest problem is, the Family (well MIL) will be the primary user of said thermostat. Were it up to me, i'd just duplicate the setup I have in my detached garage (ESP32 and 4channel relay board, with remote temp sensors).
My second biggest problem is many of the smart thermostats requiring internet access and control only being available through their External API. Ideally I'd like something that is 100% local control, with opt in for any remote data.
What setups do you have? do you like it? is it "normal" person friendly?
This is my solve for this stuff too. I do all of my automation through HomeKit because it will work on a local wireless without an internet connection.
Biggest problem with staying in the HomeKit ecosystem is that Android phones are kind of fucked if you lock things down to pure HomeKit.
Also, Siri can be a frustrating POS sometimes.