We first told you about Ecobee’s Smart Thermostat last October. The device claims that it will pay for it’s $385 price tag within the first 12 to 18 months of use. Now’s your chance to find out if that claim is true.

The WiFi-enabled smart thermostat, complete with ZigBee expansion slots, is now available to order from the company’s website. The cost includes the $35 access fee for first year of use. If it lives up to it’s claims, this should be a real money saver. It helps you get to know your energy usage patterns and make the necessary adjustments.

Ecobee’s new Smart Thermostat not only has a nice futuristic look compared to your current thermostat, but helps you save some money on your power bill. It becomes part of your home network operating via WiFi and comes with optional ZigBee expansion slots if you want to integrate it more completely.

At $385, it may take a bit of time for it to pay for itself. Ecobee says 12 to 18 months. It gets better as you get to know your energy usage patterns and make adjustments. The Ecobee Smart Thermostat ships early next year. Which is good because in this economy, it may take you some time to save up the $385.