Are you tired of constantly adjusting your home’s temperature, or perhaps you’re looking for smarter ways to save on your energy bills? Investing in a programmable thermostat is a brilliant move, and when it comes to reliability and innovation, Honeywell Home stands out. They offer a fantastic range of options, from basic models that get the job done to advanced smart thermostats that integrate seamlessly into your connected home. But with so many choices, how do you pick the best Honeywell programmable thermostat for your specific needs?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve scoured the market and broken down ten top Honeywell programmable thermostats, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and what makes each one a smart buy. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or looking for cutting-edge smart home integration, there’s a Honeywell thermostat here for you. Let’s dive in and find your perfect match for enhanced home comfort and energy efficiency!
1. Honeywell Home RTH6580WF Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Thermostat
This Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Thermostat is a fantastic entry point into smart home climate control. It’s designed for those who want the convenience of remote access and smart features without an overly complicated setup. What truly makes this model shine is its balance of user-friendly operation and robust smart home integration, allowing you to manage your home’s temperature from virtually anywhere using a simple app.
- EASY-TO-USE-APP: Control your thermostat via the Total Connect Comfort or Honeywell Home app.
- SMART HOME INTEGRATION: Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana, and more.
- SIMPLE INSTALL FOR A DIY PROJECT: Easy to configure and install yourself.
- ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED: Designed for energy efficiency without compromising performance.
- EASY OPERATION AND INTUITIVE: Features a big, backlit digital display and easy controls.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Forced air (gas, oil or electric), hot water and steam, heat pumps with electric backup.
- C-Wire Required: Important for power.
- LEARNS YOUR COMFORT LEVELS: Smart Response feature adapts to your home’s cycles for optimal temperature.
- EFFICIENCY AND REWARDS: Works with utility programs for potential savings.
Pros:
– Excellent smart home compatibility
– Easy remote control via app
– Energy Star certified for potential savings
– Relatively straightforward DIY installation
– Smart Response Technology enhances comfort
Cons:
– Requires a C-wire, which some older homes may lack
– App might have a slight learning curve for some users
User Impressions: Many users praise its reliable Wi-Fi connectivity and the convenience of being able to adjust settings on the go. The integration with voice assistants is a big plus, though some noted the C-wire requirement as a potential hurdle.
2. New! Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat, Single-Stage
Sometimes, simplicity is key, and this Honeywell Home Programmable Thermostat delivers just that. Ideal for single-stage heating/cooling systems, it offers personalized 5-2 day programming, letting you set different schedules for weekdays and weekends. It’s a great choice for those seeking reliable, straightforward temperature management without the complexity of Wi-Fi or advanced smart features, focusing on core programming functionality.
- CUSTOMIZE: Receive air filter change reminders and optimize display settings.
- SCHEDULE: Personalize programming with 5-2 day increments; non-programmable option available.
- EXPERIENCE: Large screen and clear font for easy daily use.
- INSTALLATION: Honeywell Home UWP wall plate ensures an easy install and simplifies future upgrades.
- FEATURES: 5-2 day scheduling, backlit display, custom display settings, change filter reminder, extended 32°F low-heat setpoint.
- COMPATIBILITY: 1 Heat/1 Cool, 750 mV, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric).
- POWER: Operates on 2 AA batteries (not included).
Pros:
– Simple and intuitive programming
– Clear, large backlit display for easy reading
– Easy installation with UWP wall plate
– Battery-powered, no C-wire needed
– Customization for filter reminders and display settings
Cons:
– Lacks Wi-Fi and smart home capabilities
– Only 5-2 day programming, less flexible than 7-day models
– Batteries need periodic replacement
User Impressions: Customers appreciate its no-frills approach and ease of use. It’s often recommended for those who want to set a schedule and forget it, without needing app control or smart integrations.
3. Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat
Elevate your home’s aesthetic with the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat. This model isn’t just about smart features; it’s about blending seamlessly with your decor thanks to its customizable color screen. It offers advanced programming, energy-saving insights, and voice assistant compatibility, making it a stylish yet highly functional centerpiece for your home’s climate control system. This is a strong contender for the best Honeywell programmable thermostat if you value both looks and brains.
- COMFORT COMES IN YOUR COLOR: Personalize the Wi-Fi Smart Color Programmable Thermostat to match your décor.
- SAVE ENERGY AND GET REWARDED: Check for utility rebates and enroll in “DEMAND RESPONSE PROGRAM” for potential savings.
- YOUR SCHEDULE. YOUR WAY: Flexible programming options for your schedule or utility peak rate pricing.
- EASY OPERATION AND INTUITIVE: Bright, easy-to-read touchscreen for simple operation.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Forced air (gas, oil or electric), hot water and steam, heat pumps with electric backup.
- C-Wire Required: Essential for functionality.
- ENERGY STAR certified: Helps save energy, tracks usage with monthly reports, and offers personalized tips.
- Works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems: C-Wire needed for heating-only oil furnaces.
- Fan Control Options: On, Automatic, Circulate modes.
- Works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Home: Control temperature from anywhere via mobile app.
Pros:
– Customizable color touchscreen display
– Comprehensive energy-saving features and reports
– Flexible 7-day programming
– Excellent smart home integration (Alexa, Google Home)
– Remote control via mobile app
Cons:
– Requires a C-wire for installation
– Higher price point than basic models
– May be overly featured for users wanting simple control
User Impressions: Users absolutely love the vibrant, customizable display and the ease of programming directly on the touchscreen. The energy reports are a favorite for those keen on optimizing their consumption, though the C-wire requirement is consistently mentioned.
4. New! Honeywell Home Non-Programmable Thermostat
Sometimes, you just need a straightforward thermostat without any bells and whistles, and this Honeywell Home Non-Programmable Thermostat fits the bill perfectly. It’s designed for users who prefer manual temperature adjustments rather than setting complex schedules. What makes it appealing is its robust build quality, clear display, and essential features like filter reminders, making it a reliable, no-fuss solution for basic temperature control.
- CUSTOMIZE: Choose to receive filter reminders and select display settings.
- EXPERIENCE: Large screen and clear font enhance daily use.
- INSTALLATION: Honeywell Home UWP wall plate provides easy installation and simplifies future device upgrades.
- FEATURES: Backlit display, custom display settings, change filter reminders, 32°F low-heat setpoint.
- COMPATIBILITY: 1 Heat/1 Cool, 750 mV, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric).
- POWER: Operates on 2 AA batteries (not included).
Pros:
– Very simple and intuitive to operate
– Clear, large backlit display
– Easy DIY installation with UWP wall plate
– Battery-powered, no C-wire required
– Useful filter change reminders
Cons:
– Not programmable, requiring manual adjustments
– Lacks Wi-Fi or any smart features
– Batteries need replacement
User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate its simplicity and dependability for basic heating and cooling needs. It’s often chosen by those who don’t need scheduling features or smart connectivity and just want a clear display and reliable temperature control.
5. Honeywell Home RTH221B1039 RTH221B Programmable Thermostat
For those who desire basic programming without breaking the bank or dealing with complex features, the Honeywell Home RTH221B1039 is an excellent choice. It offers single-week programming with four periods per day, making it easy to set a consistent schedule for your entire week. Its intuitive interface and precise temperature control make it a reliable and economical option for fundamental energy savings.
- ONE WEEK PROGRAMMING: Set one identical program for the entire week (wake, leave, arrive, sleep).
- PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Maintains temperature within +/- 1 degree Fahrenheit.
- DIGITAL DISPLAY: Easy-to-read digital display with intuitive interface.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Designed for simple self-installation and basic operation.
- REMINDERS: Built-in battery change reminders (2 AAA batteries required).
- SET POINT RETENTION: Retains set point in memory during power outages.
- DISPLAY OPTIONS: Fahrenheit or Celsius; 12 or 24 hour clock. Note: Not backlit.
- OVERRIDE OPTIONS: Permanent and temporary override capability.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Heating, cooling, and heat pumps without auxiliary heat.
Pros:
– Simple, straightforward 7-day programming
– Very affordable
– Easy DIY installation
– Precise temperature control
– Set point retention during power outages
Cons:
– Display is not backlit
– Limited compatibility (no auxiliary heat, multi-stage, or baseboard heat)
– Requires AAA batteries
User Impressions: Users find this thermostat to be a great value for its price, offering simple programming and reliable temperature management. The lack of backlighting is a common comment, but for daytime use, it’s not a major issue.
6. Honeywell Home RTH2300B1038 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat
The Honeywell Home RTH2300B1038 offers a practical and budget-friendly solution for managing your home’s climate with 5-2 day programming. This means you can have one schedule for your weekdays and another for the weekend, providing a good balance between flexibility and simplicity. It stands out for its easy installation and compatibility with a wide range of systems, making it a popular choice for those looking for basic programmable functionality.
- 5-2 DAY PROGRAMMING: Separate programs for weekdays and weekends, with 4 periods per day.
- PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Maintains temperature within +/- 1 degree Fahrenheit; allows setting min/max temps.
- DIGITAL DISPLAY: Backlit display panel with intuitive interface.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Simple DIY installation and works with many heating/cooling systems.
- REMINDERS: Built-in battery change and filter change reminders.
- RETAINS PROGRAMMING: Programmed memory retained during power outages.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Gas, oil, electric furnace, central AC, hot water system, millivolt system, heat pump without auxiliary heat.
Pros:
– Affordable and easy to use
– Backlit display for visibility
– 5-2 day programming offers good flexibility
– Retains programming during power outages
– Includes battery and filter change reminders
Cons:
– No Wi-Fi or smart features
– Not compatible with heat pumps with auxiliary heat or multi-stage systems
– Relies on batteries (not included)
User Impressions: Customers frequently commend its straightforward installation and clear, backlit display. It’s often recommended for renters or those who need a reliable, basic programmable thermostat without needing advanced connectivity.
7. Honeywell Home RTH6360D1002 Programmable Thermostat
The Honeywell Home RTH6360D1002 offers flexible 5-2 day or 1-week programming, catering to different lifestyle needs while prioritizing energy conservation. What truly sets it apart is the Smart Response Technology, which learns your home’s heating and cooling cycles to ensure your desired temperature is reached precisely when you want it, rather than just starting at that time. This intelligent feature helps optimize comfort and energy usage efficiently.
- FLEXIBLE PROGRAMMING: Offers 5-2 Day or 1-Week programming options.
- BACKLIT LCD DISPLAY: Shows current room and set point temperatures simultaneously.
- SMART RESPONSE TECHNOLOGY: Learns system cycles to achieve desired temperature at the right time.
- FEATURES: Auto changeover between heat and cool, low battery and filter change alerts.
- PROGRAM RETAINED: Memory retained during power outages.
- UWP MOUNTING SYSTEM: Included hardware and guide for quick installation.
- REAL-TIME CLOCK: Automatically adjusts for daylight savings time.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Forced air (gas, oil or electric), hot water and steam, heat pumps with electric backup.
Pros:
– Smart Response Technology for optimized comfort and efficiency
– Flexible 5-2 Day or 1-Week programming
– Backlit display is easy to read
– Auto changeover between heating and cooling
– Retains programming during power outages
Cons:
– No Wi-Fi or smart home connectivity
– Not compatible with electric baseboard heat
– Requires batteries (not included)
User Impressions: Users appreciate the Smart Response Technology, noting how it helps maintain consistent comfort. The flexible programming options also receive positive feedback, making it a solid choice for those who want a smart, but not connected, thermostat.
8. Honeywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat
Step up your comfort with the Honeywell Home RTH7600D, a 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat designed for ease of use and comprehensive control. Its large, intuitive touchscreen display makes setting schedules and adjusting temperatures a breeze. The inclusion of Smart Response Technology ensures your home reaches your desired temperature exactly when you expect it, preventing energy waste and maximizing comfort.
- Large touchscreen display: Easy to set preferred temperature or weekly schedule.
- Set home and away temperatures: Helps save energy when you’re not home.
- 7-Day menu-driven programming: 4 periods per day for tailored schedules.
- Backlit touchscreen display: Shows current room and set point temperature simultaneously.
- Simple and straightforward installation and use.
- Real-time clock: Automatically adjusts for Daylight Savings Time.
- Smart Response Technology: Learns system run times for optimal temperature delivery.
- System protection: Compressor wait time before restarting; filter and low battery alerts.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Single/multi-stage heating and cooling, heat pumps (with/without auxiliary heat), hot water, steam, millivolt, and gas fireplaces.
Pros:
– Large, easy-to-use touchscreen interface
– Flexible 7-Day programming for detailed schedules
– Smart Response Technology for optimal comfort
– Wide system compatibility, including heat pumps with auxiliary heat
– Filter and low battery reminders
Cons:
– Not a Wi-Fi or smart thermostat, lacks remote control
– Installation might be slightly more complex than basic models for beginners
– Price point is higher than non-touchscreen models
User Impressions: Customers love the large, clear touchscreen and the menu-driven programming, which makes setting schedules surprisingly simple. The wide compatibility is also a significant advantage for various home HVAC setups.
9. Honeywell Home RTH8560D 7 Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat
The Honeywell Home RTH8560D is another excellent 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat that combines advanced features with a stylish, user-friendly design. Its crystal-clear, blue-backlit display not only looks great but also provides easy-to-read indoor temperature and humidity readouts. What makes this model stand out is its Smart Response Learning technology, ensuring your heating and cooling cycles are perfectly timed to deliver comfort precisely when you need it. This could easily be considered a strong contender for the best Honeywell programmable thermostat for those prioritizing aesthetics and intelligent learning.
- Scheduling flexibility: Program day-to-day, over the weekend, or for an entire week.
- Crystal-clear display: Seamless blend of function and style.
- Brightly backlit screen: Cool blue color with easy-to-read indoor temperature and humidity.
- Filter change reminders: Appear on screen for added convenience.
- Smart Response Learning technology: Senses home needs, learns cycle times for precise temperature.
- Choice of battery or hard-wire operation: Flexible power source.
- Permanent day and time backup: Settings saved during power outages.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Single/multi-stage heating and cooling, heat pumps (with/without auxiliary heat), hot water, steam, millivolt, and gas fireplaces.
Pros:
– Elegant, blue-backlit touchscreen with humidity display
– Smart Response Learning for intelligent temperature delivery
– Flexible 7-day programming
– Hard-wire or battery power option
– Wide compatibility with various HVAC systems
Cons:
– Lacks Wi-Fi and smart home integration
– May have a slightly steeper learning curve for advanced programming
– Relatively higher cost for a non-Wi-Fi model
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed with the sleek design and the helpful humidity display. The Smart Response Learning is frequently highlighted as a feature that genuinely improves home comfort and potentially saves energy without constant manual adjustments.
10. Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat ENERGY STAR
The Honeywell Home RTH9600WF Smart Color Thermostat is a powerhouse of smart features wrapped in a customizable, high-definition display. As an ENERGY STAR certified device, it’s designed to help you save on energy bills, track your usage, and even receive personalized tips. Its remote control capabilities via app and integration with top smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant make it one of the most advanced and convenient options for managing your home’s climate, securing its place as a strong contender for the best Honeywell programmable thermostat for smart homes.
- ENERGY STAR certified: Helps save energy, tracks usage, and sends personalized tips.
- SAVE ENERGY AND GET REWARDED: Check for energy savings rebates and enroll in ongoing incentives.
- CONTROL FROM ANYWHERE: Use the app or compatible smart home partners (Alexa, Google Assistant, Cortana).
- Flexible programming options: Set it and forget it, benefiting from energy savings.
- CUSTOMIZABLE COLOR SCREEN: Easily change the high-definition display to any color.
- ON-SCREEN COMFORT INFORMATION: See indoor/outdoor temperature and humidity, plus daily weather forecast.
- COMPATIBLE WITH: Forced air (gas, oil or electric), hot water and steam, heat pumps with electric backup.
- C-WIRE REQUIRED: Essential for functionality.
- Works with most heat/cool oil furnace systems: C-Wire needed for heating-only oil furnaces.
Pros:
– Full smart home integration (Alexa, Google Assistant, Cortana)
– Customizable HD color touchscreen display
– Comprehensive energy-saving features and reports
– Remote control via app from anywhere
– Displays indoor/outdoor temp, humidity, and weather forecast
– ENERGY STAR certified
Cons:
– Requires a C-wire, which might necessitate professional installation for some
– Higher price point due to advanced features
– Might be overly complex for users who prefer basic controls
User Impressions: This thermostat receives high praise for its vibrant, customizable screen and seamless smart home integration. Users love the ability to control it remotely and appreciate the energy tracking features, although the C-wire requirement is a frequent point of discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Honeywell Programmable Thermostats
Choosing the right thermostat can bring a lot of questions. Here are some of the most common ones we hear:
Q1: What is a C-wire, and do I need one for my Honeywell programmable thermostat?
A: A C-wire (common wire) provides continuous 24VAC power to your thermostat. Many modern, especially Wi-Fi and smart thermostats, require a C-wire for their advanced features and backlit displays to function correctly. Without it, they often can’t draw enough power from the heating/cooling system. Some older homes may not have a C-wire, requiring an adapter or professional installation. Always check the specific thermostat’s compatibility requirements before purchasing.
Q2: How do programmable thermostats save energy?
A: Programmable thermostats save energy by allowing you to set schedules that automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your daily routine. For example, you can program it to lower the temperature when you’re at work or sleeping and raise it before you wake up or return home. This prevents your HVAC system from running unnecessarily when no one is home or when comfort levels aren’t critical, leading to significant energy savings and reduced utility bills.
Q3: What’s the difference between 5-2 day and 7-day programming?
A:
* 5-2 Day Programming: Allows you to set one schedule for weekdays (Monday-Friday) and a separate schedule for weekends (Saturday-Sunday). This is ideal if your weekday routine is consistent and your weekend routine is different but also consistent.
* 7-Day Programming: Offers the flexibility to set a unique schedule for each day of the week. This is best for households with varying schedules or unpredictable routines.
* 1-Week Programming: Similar to 7-Day but often implies setting one identical program for all seven days, though some models allow variations.
Q4: Are Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostats compatible with smart home systems?
A: Yes, many Honeywell Home Wi-Fi programmable thermostats, especially the “Smart Color” and “Wi-Fi 7-Day” models, are designed for seamless integration with popular smart home platforms. These often include Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and sometimes Microsoft Cortana, allowing for voice control and remote management through smart home apps. Always check the product specifications for exact compatibility.
Q5: Can I install a Honeywell programmable thermostat myself, or do I need a professional?
A: Many Honeywell programmable thermostats are designed for DIY installation, especially the simpler models. They typically come with clear instructions, a UWP wall plate for easy mounting, and wire labels. However, if your home lacks a C-wire for a Wi-Fi model, or if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical wiring, it’s always best to consult a qualified HVAC technician. Safety first!
Q6: What is Honeywell’s “Smart Response Technology”?
A: Smart Response Technology (or Smart Response Learning) is a feature found in many Honeywell programmable thermostats. It learns how long your heating and cooling system takes to reach your desired temperature settings. Instead of simply turning on at your programmed time, it anticipates and starts the system earlier, ensuring your home is at your comfortable temperature by the time you’ve set, rather than starting to reach it at that time. This helps maximize comfort and efficiency.
Q7: How often should I change my air filter, and do Honeywell thermostats remind me?
A: It’s generally recommended to change your HVAC air filter every 1-3 months, depending on factors like pets, allergies, and system usage. Many Honeywell programmable thermostats, both basic and smart models, include a handy “change filter reminder” feature. This alert pops up on the display or in the app, helping you keep your system running efficiently and maintain good indoor air quality.
Finding Your Perfect Honeywell Match
Choosing the best Honeywell programmable thermostat really comes down to your personal needs, budget, and desired level of smart home integration. If you’re looking for cutting-edge connectivity and a customizable display, the Wi-Fi Smart Color models are fantastic. For reliable, straightforward scheduling without the extra frills, a 5-2 day programmable option might be your sweet spot.
No matter which model you choose, investing in a Honeywell programmable thermostat is a smart move towards greater home comfort and significant energy savings. Take another look at our top picks, consider your home’s specific requirements (like C-wire availability), and get ready to enjoy a perfectly climate-controlled environment!
