HVAC & Utilities – Smart Home Perfected https://www.smarthomeperfected.com The Ultimate Smart Home Resource! Wed, 03 Jul 2024 10:56:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-icon-1-32x32.png HVAC & Utilities – Smart Home Perfected https://www.smarthomeperfected.com 32 32 227197439 Solved: Honeywell Smart Thermostat Connection Failure https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-connection-failure/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-connection-failure/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:29:20 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=35972---56d603ff-2493-4e72-8aca-3e2c9e967af5 Are you experiencing a connection failure with your Honeywell thermostat? We help you diagnose the issue and get you back up and running.

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Problems with your Honeywell smart thermostat's connectivity could lead to errors and delays, significantly impacting its ability to be controlled remotely.

In most cases, a low Wi-Fi signal is the culprit, and eliminating Wi-Fi dead zones can resolve this.

However, that’s only one possible cause. So keep reading to learn more.

Reasons for a Honeywell Thermostat Connection Failure

Below, I’ve listed 10 of the most common reasons for a connection failure. I’ve also provided solutions and tips to prevent these issues from popping up in the future. 

1. Thermostat Not in Router Range

As I mentioned, the most probable reason why your Honeywell thermostat is suffering from connection failures is that it’s located outside your router's signal range.

So even if it may seem like a simple oversight, many people overlook this detail, especially since you can’t gauge the signal strength of the thermostat using your smartphone without advanced apps.

To determine whether this is an issue, check the distance between the router and the thermostat.

If the thermostat is situated at the edge of your router's signal range, it might be susceptible to connectivity issues due to minor disruptions, such as people passing by or interference from other smart devices and microwaves.

  • So, try relocating your Wi-Fi router to a position closer to the thermostat.
  • If that's not feasible, consider upgrading your router to one with a broader range.
  • Another option is to invest in a Wi-Fi booster or implement a mesh network, both of which can extend the signal coverage and eliminate dead zones.

When attempting to connect the thermostat to your smartphone, verify that both the app and your device's software are up to date, and hold the phone closer to the thermostat for optimal connection.

2. Thermostat Can’t Detect Wi-Fi Network

In other cases, the smart thermostat might not be able to detect your Wi-Fi network entirely.

To resolve this, first, ensure that your router is switched on. If you've recently returned from vacation and forgot to plug it back in, this will be a quick fix.

Check for the 2.4GHz Band

  • If your router is working, check if it's a 5Ghz Wi-Fi router that doesn't support the required 2.4GHz channel.
  • Many smart home devices, including thermostats, typically do not work with the 5GHz channel supported by dual routers.
  • Temporarily turning off the 5GHz band during thermostat setup can help establish the connection or configuring your router to broadcast on both 2.4Ghz and 5GHz can help.

Soft-Restart the Thermostat

If these steps don't help, try restarting your thermostat by disconnecting it from the main power or removing one of its batteries.

This action could improve the connection, especially if the network details remain the same.

Check for VPNs

Also, ensure that you disable any VPNs or spoofers, or force close their respective applications, before attempting the connection again.

3. Wi-Fi SSID hidden

Another reason could be that the Wi-Fi name is hidden from the public and other devices. Maybe you’re using additional firewalls or a computer-computer network. Either way, you can break down these digital walls with a simple solution.

All you need to do is change your router’s settings. To do that, access your router’s settings page. You can also do that from your network connection settings if your computer is connected to the Wi-Fi network. 

Another way to deal with this issue is by manually inputting the Wi-Fi name in your thermostat. You should be given an “Other” option when it comes to Wi-Fi names. Input the name of your network manually. Be careful about cases and spellings. 

4. Wi-Fi Disabled On Your Thermostat

Recent models, such as the T10 Pro, have the option to disable Wi-Fi connections. 

To enable it:

  1. Activate/Wake up the screen on your thermostat by touching any part of the display
  2. Tap on the sandwich (three horizontal lines) menu button at the bottom
  3. Scroll down and select “Wi-Fi” from the list
  4. Make sure the “Enable Wi-Fi” toggle switch is set to on 
T10 enable Wi Fi settings
Enabling Wi-Fi access to a Honeywell T10 Pro smart thermostat

5. Wi-Fi Can't Connect to the Internet

If your Wi-Fi router is unable to connect to the internet, there might be a problem with your network or ISP.

To test your connection speed, visit fast.com

Use Mobile Hotspot

If your Wi-Fi network is experiencing difficulties, consider using your phone's mobile hotspot as an alternative to connect your thermostat.

If that works and you can access the internet via your Wi-Fi, the issue might be in your Wi-Fi router. Therefore, it's essential to verify your thermostat's IP address.

Verify the Thermostat’s IP Address

  1. To do this, remove the faceplate from the wall for 30 seconds and then reconnect it.
  2. After two minutes, look for the Wi-Fi icon on the thermostat display.
  3. If there's no X symbol, the thermostat has successfully reconnected.
  4. Next, go to the thermostat’s menu screen, and open up the Wi-Fi settings/information.
  5. Here, note down the IP address.
  6. If the IP address is something like 169.254.x.x or 0.0.0.0, your thermostat is connected to the local network but isn’t provided permission to access the internet.
    1. In this case, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or network support for assistance with DHCP settings.
  7. If the IP address is something along the lines of 192.168.x.x, 172.x.x.x, or 10.x.x.x, your thermostat is connected to both the DHCP service and allowed to browse the internet.

6. Wi-Fi details have changed

Do you remember making any changes to your Wi-Fi network details recently? Perhaps you changed the name or password of the network. In that case, the thermostat will not be able to recognize the new network properties.

To solve this problem, all you have to do is reconnect to the network the same way you did when you connected for the first time. Find the network, input the password, and pair the devices. 

Try Disconnecting and Reconnecting to Your Wi-Fi Network

If you need to disconnect your thermostat from your home Wi-Fi, follow these steps: 

  1. Reset the Wi-Fi settings on your thermostat. Click here for a guide on how to do this.
  2. If you’re using a newer model such as the T10 Pro and T9, simply switch to a different network or forget the old one.
  3. Then, delete the thermostat from the Honeywell Home app.

How to Change the Wi-Fi Network on T9 and T10 Models

To change the Wi-Fi network on T10 Pro, T9, and Series 9000 models: 

  1. Wake up the thermostat's display 
  2. Tap the Menu icon
  3. Scroll to Wi-Fi 
  4. Tap “Choose Network” 
  5. Select a new network or hotspot, and enter your password.
T10 Wi Fi Change 1
Changing the Wi-Fi network on a Honeywell T10 Pro

How to Remove Your Thermostat from the Honeywell Apps

To remove your thermostat from the Honeywell Home app: 

  1. Open the app 
  2. Choose your device 
  3. Tap the gear settings icon 
  4. Select “Thermostat configuration” 
  5. Press “Delete Thermostat.”
T6 Delete app
Deleting a thermostat from the Honeywell Home app

After that, you can follow the app's instructions to reconnect your device.

7. Network Interference

A crowded network is tough on your router, especially when it lacks sufficient bandwidth to handle all of your connected smart devices.

Remember, the majority of these devices rely on the 2.4GHz band, and crowding can bog down the signal.

You must also be cautious about other wireless connectivity sources that might interfere with your Wi-Fi network; this includes Bluetooth devices and even microwave ovens.

To pinpoint the issue, prioritize your network needs by disconnecting or turning off other devices before trying to connect the thermostat again.

A less congested network should enhance the connectivity process for your thermostat.

image 80

8. Router needs a Reboot

A less common cause of thermostats disconnecting from the Wi-Fi lies in the router itself. Perhaps your router needs a reboot! Think about it, has there been a power surge in your house recently?

Maybe the router has undergone an automatic update? Could it be that some firmware bug took place? If you can say yes to any of these possibilities, it might be time to reboot your router!

The easiest way to reboot your router is by turning the power off and on again. If it doesn’t work, press and hold the reboot button for a long time to factory reset the router. That will also erase the Wi-Fi name and password that you’ve set up, which might be annoying to change. 

9. Issues with the Thermostat Specifications

First-timers setting up a thermostat connection can be tricky, so ensure you're aware of your network's specifications, such as IP address assignment, wireless security compatibility, and network types.

To find this information, you can check the box or user manual to verify that it matches your network.

10. Issues with Firmware updates

Firmware updates are essential for Honeywell Thermostats to function efficiently and maintain a reliable connection with your Wi-Fi network.

While updates typically occur over Wi-Fi without major problems, there are occasions where issues may arise.

To resolve connection failures, you should first verify if any updates are available within the Honeywell app or consider performing a factory reset on your smart thermostat.

Ensure that your Wi-Fi network operates on the 2.4GHz band, provides a strong signal for your thermostat, and maintains stable internet access throughout the process.

The Verdict

Troubleshooting Honeywell Thermostat connection issues can sometimes become very tedious. A connection failure could be related to why your Honeywell thermostat is flashing cool on.

As long as you have a strong Wi-Fi signal and you know how to access the router’s settings, you should be fine for the most part. 

That said, if you run into more issues, make sure to drop a comment and also get help from a professional. A connection failure could be a sign that you need to troubleshoot your Honeywell thermostat not working issues.

Cited Sources

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Honeywell Thermostat Reset: Simple Tricks for Quick Troubleshooting in 2024 https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-reset/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-reset/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 12:49:52 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=3504---116f5f7a-bdc5-4531-b1ec-037d237a7fc5 Is your Honeywell Thermostat acting up? If yes, you can trigger a factory reset at any time to get back up and running.

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Resetting your Honeywell thermostat back to its original factory settings is an uncomplicated process. If you are seeking detailed guidance on how to adequately reset your Honeywell thermostat, you've come to the right place.

With a factory, schedule, or Wi-Fi reset, you can revert the thermostat to default settings and clear out any errors or glitches.

So in this guide, I’ll show you how to reset a Honeywell thermostat. Let’s go!

In some cases, the instructions require you to remove the thermostat from its base plate, potentially exposing live wiring. If you come across this requirement, we recommend you isolate the wires beforehand via the circuit breaker box. 

At SmartHomePerfected we always advise readers not to undertake any work they are not competent in performing and if in any doubt, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional.

Honeywell Thermostat Reset: How to Find the Model Number

Before we get into the specifics, the first thing you should do is find the exact model number of your Honeywell thermostat. This can help speed things up since you can breeze through our guide and find the steps to reset your specific model. 

In the guide below, I've included images of Honeywell Thermostats within each range to make it easy to identify the correct one.

Generally speaking, the model name or number of your thermostat is either referenced on the front of the device, is accessible through the digital interface, or printed on a label at the back.

Below are steps to perform, if you need to remove the thermostat from the base plate to access the model number.

  1. If your home thermostat is mains powered, isolate the circuit via the circuit breaker to avoid exposure to live wiring. (Once the power is off, the thermostat may still be on as some models have a battery backup. Some models have a battery door that you can slide up to remove the batteries. For others, the batteries are installed in the back of the faceplate).
  2. Carefully slide/pull the thermostat off the base plate, making sure not to damage the pins or clips. In some models, this is accomplished by pulling from the bottom of the device.
  3. Take note of the model at the back and find the corresponding instructions below.
  4. Reposition the thermostat back onto the base plate.

Model-Specific Instructions

After you've noted down the model name and number of your Honeywell Thermostat, you can check the sections below for the appropriate reset guide.

Make sure to take note of the various settings on the device before resetting, as you'll likely need to reconfigure them.

T10 Pro and T9 Models

Smart Wi-Fi Thermostats with colored touchscreen

honeywell thermostat reset

Resetting your Honeywell T9 and T10 models is relatively straightforward. You only need to issue the reset commands via the settings. Here's how:

Performing a Factory Reset:

  1. Press the Menu icon.
  2. Scroll down to “Thermostat Information.”
  3. Write down the four-digit code under “Date Code.”
  4. Then, press the “back” arrow and scroll to “Installer Options.”
  5. It will ask for a password. Enter the Date Code you just wrote down.
  6. Select “Reset” and then “Factory Reset.”

Performing a WiFi Reset:

  1. Press the Menu icon.
  2. Scroll to “WiFi” and press on it.
  3. Choose “Change Network.”
  4. Pick the new WiFi network and enter the password.
T10 Wi Fi Change
Carrying out a Wi-Fi network change on a Honeywell T10 Pro

Performing a Schedule Reset:

  1. Press the Menu icon.
  2. Scroll to “Thermostat Information.”
  3. Record the “Date Code.”
  4. Press the “back” arrow, and scroll to “Installer Options.”
  5. Enter the Date Code for the password.
  6. Select “Reset” and then “Schedule Reset.”

Performing a HomeKit Reset: 

  1. Press the Menu icon.
  2. Scroll to “Thermostat Information.”
  3. Note down the “Date Code.”
  4. Press the “back” arrow, and scroll to “Installer Options.”
  5. Enter the Date Code as the password.
  6. Select “Reset” and then pick the option titled “HomeKit.”

T5+ / T5 / T6 Pro Smart /T6 Pro Z-Wave Models

Smart Thermostats with Touchscreen

Honeywell T5 and T6 Pros

For the rest of the T-series mid-range models such as the T5 and T6 variations, the reset procedures may be slightly different but the main process is outlined below: 

Performing a Factory/Schedule/HomeKit Reset

  1. Power on the device
  2. Press or hold down the menu button until the menu options come up
  3. Press the left or right arrow keys until you get to the option: “Reset”
  4. Touch on “Select” to confirm
  5. Then, select the type of reset: “Factory”, “Schedule” or “HomeKit”
  6. Press on “Select” to confirm the rest type
  7. A confirmation screen will pop up, asking “Are you Sure.” Confirm your decision by touching on “Yes.”

T4 Pro

Programmable Thermostat

T4 Pro

The T4 Pro has an entirely different process since you need to head into the advanced setup options menu. 

Here’s how to carry this out:

  1. Simply press the Menu and “Plus” buttons at the same time and hold them down for about five seconds.
  2. This action will display the ISU (Advanced Setup Options) on the thermostat's screen.
  3. Once you're in the ISU menu, use the Plus and Minus buttons to scroll through the various options until you find “Restore Defaults.”
  4. Press on “Select” to confirm and this option will reset all of your thermostat settings back to factory defaults.
  5. To reset your schedule, continue scrolling to the right, and you'll find “Reset Schedule.”

Lyric Round Smart Thermostat

Smart Thermostat with Circular Interface

Lyric Round

Although discontinued, you might still be using a Lyric Round Smart thermostat. Therefore, I’ve decided to include its reset guide also. 

So, here’s how to go through with the reset:

Factory Reset

  1. Press and hold the Weather/Cloud button for 5-10 seconds.
  2. Wait for the menu button to appear.
  3. Scroll to “Factory Reset” and select it.
  4. Choose “OK”, followed by “YES”.

Wi-Fi Reset

  1. Press and hold the “Cloud” icon.
  2. Scroll to the Wi-Fi option and select it.
  3. Scroll to the Setup option and select it.

HomeKit Reset

  1. Press and hold the “Cloud” icon.
  2. Scroll to the HomeKit Reset option and select it.

9000 Series

Programmable Thermostat with colored-touchscreen

9000 series

With a colored touchscreen, the 9000 Wi-Fi models have an entirely different process than the other models. 

Performing a Factory Reset

  1. Press the “Menu” button.
  2. Scroll down and select “Preferences.”
  3. Scroll down further and choose “Restore Factory Settings.”
  4. Press “YES” to confirm, and you're done.

Carrying out a Wi-Fi Reset

  1. Select “Menu.”
  2. Choose “Wi-Fi Setup.”
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Resetting the Schedule

  1. Press the “Menu” icon.
  2. Select “Preferences”.
  3. Choose “Restore Default Schedule”.

8000 Wi-Fi Models (8320 & 8680 VisionPRO)

Programmable thermostats with LCD touchscreen

VisionPRO 8000

These thermostat models come with a 10-inch LCD screen and require 4 AA batteries to operate properly. 

Here’s how to reset the 8000 Series of Models:

Factory Reset

  1. Ensure your thermostat is “On” 
  2. Press on “System” 
  3. Then, press and hold the center black buttons for 5 seconds
  4. Choose “Reset Factory Settings”

Wi-Fi Reset

  1. Disconnect the router's faceplate
  2. Briefly unplug the wireless router 
  3. Reconnect the power and faceplate
  4. Press “System” on the thermostat 
  5. Hold the middle buttons to access a new screen 
  6. Set the left number to “0900”, and the right to “0”, then press “Done”
  7. On your computer, choose “Thermostat Wi-Fi”
  8. Connect to your home network

Schedule Reset

  1. Tap on “System” on the thermostat.
  2. Press and hold the blank box in the center
  3. After a new screen pops up, change the left number to “0165” and the right to “1”, then press “Done” 

8321 Wi-Fi Model

Programmable Thermostat with touchscreen

Honeywell 8321

So here’s how to carry out resets for the Honeywell 8321 Models

Factory Reset:

  1. Press “Menu”.
  2. Choose “Dealer Information”.
  3. Note down the date code at the bottom.
  4. Select “Done”.
  5. Enter “Installer Options”.
  6. Input the date code.
  7. Choose “Reset to Default”.
  8. Press “Yes”.

Wi-Fi Reset

  1. Press “Menu”.
  2. Scroll to “Wi-Fi Setup” using the Down arrow.
  3. Select “Wi-Fi Setup”.
  4. The Wi-Fi reset is now complete.

Schedule Reset

  1. Press “Menu”.
  2. Scroll to “Preferences” using the Down arrow.
  3. Select “Preferences”.
  4. Scroll to “Default Schedule” using the Down arrow.
  5. Select “Default Schedule”.
  6. The schedule reset is now done!

6000 Series Models (FocusPRO and RTH6500WF)

Programmable Thermostat

FocusPRO 6000 Series

Factory Reset

  1. Turn on the thermostat.
  2. Press and hold the “Fan” and “Up” arrow buttons together.
  3. After 5-10 seconds, release when the display changes.
  4. Press the 4th button from the left until “90” appears.
  5. Use the “Up” arrow to change the digit to “1”.
  6. Press “Done” to complete the reset.

Wi-Fi Reset

  1. Hold the “Fan” and “Up” arrow buttons on the thermostat.
  2. Wait for the display to change.
  3. Press buttons until “39” appears on the left side.
  4. Use the “Down” arrow to change “1” to “0”.
  5. Press “Done” to complete the Wi-Fi setup.
  6. On a mobile device, access “Device Settings” and choose the thermostat's Wi-Fi network.
  7. Connect and then open the Honeywell Thermostat Wi-Fi page using the IP address.
  8. Select your home Wi-Fi network and press “Connect”.
  9. A “Connection Success” message confirms completion.

Schedule Reset

  1. Press and hold the “Up” arrow and “Fan” buttons.
  2. Change the number on the left to “85”.
  3. Change the number on the right to “1”.

Other Models

If your model is not covered by this guide, I've collated a list of user manuals for Honeywell thermostats which you can view here. These manuals contain full reset instructions to get you back up and running, After a reset, you may still need additional tips if your Honeywell thermostat stops working. After a reset, if you notice your Honeywell thermostat flashing cool on, here's what to do next.

References

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Honeywell Thermostat Error Code Troubleshooting https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-error-codes/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-error-codes/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:44:36 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=36210---5a6fd931-f7ba-4df5-a0ae-c5ed805070c3 We have compiled a list of Honeywell thermostat error codes so that you can understand what your device is trying to tell you!

The post Honeywell Thermostat Error Code Troubleshooting appeared first on Smart Home Perfected.

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Understanding the meaning of a new error code suddenly displayed on your Honeywell thermostat can be slightly difficult.

These error codes usually indicate a hardware fault but can also relate to Wi-Fi issues or incorrect settings.

To help you understand what they mean, I’ve created this guide where I provide a full list of error codes common across all Honeywell thermostats to help you troubleshoot. I also provide a list of model-specific error codes for the newer smart thermostats.

So keep reading to learn what they are and how to fix them.

What are Error Codes?

Since most thermostats don’t use sophisticated displays, error codes help map out all the different issues that your thermostat can run into.

By understanding the meaning behind these codes displayed on your thermostat, you can address the issue and resolve it.

Are Error Codes Specific to the Model or Manufacturer?

Error codes vary by manufacturer, but for Honeywell thermostats, many codes are consistent across multiple models.

Combined List of Honeywell Thermostat Error Codes 

Error codes can help diagnose most issues with your Honeywell Smart thermostat. So, here's a breakdown of all the most common Honeywell thermostat error codes.

54Problem: Error in the Thermostat Humidity Sensor
Details: The sensor of the thermostat has encountered an error. Contact the installer or HVAC professional.
164Problem: Heat Pump Issue
Details: This indicates a problem with the heat pump. It most likely needs servicing. It's best to contact your HVAC technician.
168Problem: Wi-Fi Radio Faulty
Details: This shows that the Wi-Fi module is not working and wireless connectivity is not available. Contact your HVAC technician for help.
170Problem: Internal Memory  Error
Details: The internal memory card of the thermostat has encountered an error. Please contact your HVAC technician. The memory chip might need to be replaced.
171Problem: Date and Time are Not Set
Details: Reminds you to set the correct date and time to make use of presets/programs and scheduling.
173Problem: Error with the Temperature Sensor
Details: This indicates that the embedded temperature sensor is not working. Contact your HVAC technician for repairs/replacement
175Problem: AC Power Delay
Details: Usually displayed after a power outage or blackout. Indicates that the AC power has resumed operation. You don’t have to take any action. 
177Problem: Indoor Temperature Sensor Faulty
Details: The indoor temperature sensor of the thermostat is either disconnected or not wired properly. Seek assistance from an HVAC professional.
178Problem: Outdoor Temperature Sensor Faulty
Details: The outdoor temperature sensor of the thermostat is either disconnected or not wired properly. Seek assistance from your HVAC professional.
181/182Problem: Air Filter Clogged
Details: The air filter should be replaced. Contact a professional HVAC technician. You can dismiss this error code once you’ve replaced the filter.
183Problem: Humidifier Tank and Water Filter Clog
Details: The humidifier tank needs a thorough cleaning and the water filter needs to be replaced. You can clean it yourself or get help from an HVAC technician.
184Problem: Humidifier Pad Blockage
Details: You need to replace the humidifier pad. You can DIY it or a professional HVAC technician can get it done for you. 
185Problem: Dehumidifier Filter Blocked
Details: This error indicates that you need to replace the dehumidifier filter. DIY it or contact an HVAC technician. 
186Problem: Ventilator Core Needs Cleaning
Details: You need to clean the ventilator core. You can DIY it or get help from a pro
187Problem: The Ventilator Filter is Clogged
Details: The ventilator filter needs cleaning/replacing. DIY or contact a professional.
188/189Problem: UV Bulb Defective
Details: You need to replace the UV bulb. Do it yourself or get an HVAC technician to help. 
210Problem: Online Registration for Outdoor Temperature Not Successful
Details:  Shows that you still haven’t completed the online registration. If you want to get up-to-date outdoor weather temperatures, you need to get the Thermostat connected and register online. This can be done through the mobile app.
252Problem: AC Power Lost 
Details: (Only for Z-Wave models) Indicates power failure and reminds you to restore the connection as soon as possible since the batteries will be used as backup power, draining them faster, especially with the Z-Wave communication network being turned on. 
388Problem: Online Registration for Remote Access and Outdoor Temperature Still Not Complete
Details:  Reminder to register your thermostat via the mobile app. This will allow you to remotely access your temperature and also get access to accurate outdoor temperatures.
399Problem: Wi-Fi Radio Faulty
Details: It shows that the Wi-Fi module is not working and wireless connectivity is not available. Contact your HVAC technician for help.
400Problem: No Wi-Fi Signal 
Details: The thermostat can’t read a Wi-Fi signal. Wait for the thermostat to reconnect or select a new Wi-Fi network.
405Problem: Battery Low 
Details: Batteries are running low. Turn off the system safely andreplace the batteries.
407Problem: Battery Low 
Details: Batteries are running low. Turn off the system safely and replace the batteries.
508Problem: Wi-Fi Connection is Not Yet Configured 
Details: Download the Honeywell Home app and follow the steps to link your thermostat to your Wi-Fi network.
546Problem: (For Z-Wave models) Z-Wave Not Configured
Details: The thermostat has not yet been configured to receive commands from your Z-Wave network. Check the user guide to enroll the thermostat to your Z-Wave network.
547Problem: Z-Wave Radio Malfunction
Details: Z-Wave module is not working and the thermostat cannot receive commands from your Z-Wave network. Contact an installer or HVAC professional to replace the thermostat. 
E1/E2Problem: Z-Wave Radio Malfunction
Details: The Z-Wave module is not working and the thermostat cannot receive commands from your Z-Wave network. Contact an installer or HVAC professional to replace the thermostat. 
E01Problem: Wi-Fi Setup Error
Details: Make sure your router is connected to a power source and is within signal range while trying to connect your thermostat to the Wi-Fi network.
E02Problem: Invalid Wi-Fi password
Details: Pops up when you’ve entered an invalid Wi-Fi password. Try again with the correct code or try changing your Wi-Fi password.
E42Problem: IP address Issue
Details: This error usually comes in when there’s an issue with the Wi-Fi router’s automatic IP assigning feature. Make sure the router is properly set up.
E43Problem:  Problem communicating with Total Connect Comfort App
Details: Your Internet connection has been lost and the thermostat cannot connect to the Total Connect Comfort app. Check with your internet provider or try again after making sure your Wi-Fi network can connect to the internet.
E99Problem: General error
Details: Indicates a general initialization or configuration error. Remove the thermostat and reconnect it after several minutes.
Table for the combined list of Honeywell error codes

Model-Specific Error Codes

While the previous list covers all common Honeywell thermostat error codes, certain codes may be exclusive to specific models.

If your model is listed below, you can check the unique model-specific error codes right below. However, if you can’t find a specific model, you can refer to this article which contains an index of all Honeywell Thermostat manuals.

T10 Pro and T9

Honeywell has gotten rid of the error codes with the more recent models. Instead of error codes, the smart thermostat now pushes alerts with detailed error messages.

For these models, the red dot above the Menu icon will usually indicate any active alert or notification. Unlike the numbered error codes, these alerts will include detailed messages and provide you with instructions on how to resolve them.

To Access Alerts and Notifications: 

  1. Touch the Menu icon.
  2. Go to “Notifications” 
  3. A list of recent notifications will pop up.
  4. Touch any of these alert messages/notifications to get more details.
Honeywell T10 Pro Alert Screen
How to access alerts and notifications in the Honeywell T10 Pro smart model

Error Messages Common to T9 and T10 Models

Here are the most common error messages and solutions to fix them.

  • “Set Date and Time”: The date and time have not been configured yet. Press on this alert and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the correct date and time.
  • “Wi-Fi Module Error”: Wi-Fi module has failed. Attempt a restart or replace the Wi-Fi module.
  • “Need to Register Online”: Add your thermostat in the Honeywell Home App.
  • “No Internet Connection”: Check your router and modem for signal issues and internet connectivity.
  • “Wi-Fi Signal Lost”: Reconnect or choose a different network by following on-screen instructions.
  • “Wi-Fi Not Configured”: Connect or disable Wi-Fi through on-screen settings.
  • “Internet Required for Outdoor Temperature”: Connect the thermostat to the internet by following the on-screen steps.
  • “Power Restored”: No action is needed. Just reminding you that the power interruption was resolved.
  • “Heat Pump Failure”: Heat Pump is not responding. Call a contractor to diagnose and service the heat pump.
  • “Memory Error”/”Thermostat Memory Error”: Memory chip failure. Replace the thermostat.
  • Internal Sensor Error”: The Embedded sensor in the thermostat is defective. Replace the thermostat.
  • “Internal Hum Temp Failure”: Replace the thermostat due to failure in the internal humidity or the temperature sensor.
  • “Thermostat Unknown Time”: Reset the time or verify the Wi-Fi connection. Make sure the Wi-Fi can connect to the internet.
  • “Low Sensor Batteries”: Batteries are running low. Replace the AAA Alkaline batteries on the thermostat.
  • “Indoor Sensor Error”: Indoor temperature sensor is defective. Replace the indoor sensor.
  • “Indoor Sensor Connection Error”: Trouble Connecting to the Indoor Sensor. Replace batteries and reposition the sensor.

Below are some more unusual error messages you may encounter with these models.

Error MessageIssueSolution
Outdoor Sensor ErrorThe outdoor temperature sensor is not detected.Check the outdoor sensor and wiring.
Floor Temperature Sensor ErrorThe floor temperature sensor is not connecting or seems to be defective.Check the floor sensor and its wiring. However, please note that this sensor is yet to be implemented.
Wired Indoor Temp Sensor FailureThe indoor temperature sensor is not detected.Check the indoor sensor and wiring.
Wired Outdoor Temp Sensor FailureThe wired outdoor temperature sensor is not detected.Check the outdoor sensor and wiring.
RedLINK RF Toolkit Not RespondingThe wireless sensor RF network is not operating, and the wireless sensor features are unavailable.Contact Customer Care for assistance; this error may stem from a faulty radio or disconnected connection between the thermostat and the radio.
Table outlining the error messages common to T9 and T10 Honeywell Smart Thermostats

T6 Pro Smart

For the T6 Pro Smart and similar models, the touchscreen will show up a “general warning” sign to indicate any errors or alerts.

Honeywell T6 Pro Screen Alert Icon 1
Alert sign on the Honeywell T6 Pro Smart Models

To access these alerts or messages:

  1. Touch on the “Menu”
  2. Use the “+” or “-” buttons until you get to the “ALERTS” sub-menu.
  3. From there, touch on “Select” to open the alerts screen
  4. The 3-digit error code will show up along with a description when you scroll down
  5. You can use the left or right arrows or + and – buttons to scroll between multiple alerts and dismiss the unimportant ones.

Unique Error Codes for the T6 Pro Smart

400: Indicates a loss of Wi-Fi Signal. Give it some time to reconnect or choose another network.

508: Notifies that the Wi-Fi is not yet configured. Make sure to download the Honeywell Home app and follow the provided instructions to link your thermostat.

T6 Pro Z-Wave

For the Z-Wave model, a couple of extra unique error codes can pop up. These are: 

54: Indicates that the humidity sensor on your thermostat has malfunctioned and needs to be replaced.

252: Alerts you whenever the thermostat switches to power-save mode (LSS) or when AC power is restored. This notifies you to re-establish the mains power as soon as possible so you can prevent unnecessary battery drainage because of the Z-Wave network.

Conclusion

Unless you’ve got the error codes taped beside your thermostat, figuring out what they mean can be tedious. When deciphering error codes, it's important to understand why your Honeywell thermostat is flashing cool on.

However, as long as you’re taking care of the entire HVAC system and ensuring the thermostat doesn’t run into signal issues, you won’t encounter these error codes as much. 

Hopefully, this article helped you determine what’s wrong. If you encounter any more error codes in the future, don’t forget to check back with this article. When deciphering error codes, it might indicate a deeper issue if your Honeywell thermostat is not functioning properly.

Sources

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Ultimate Guide to Honeywell Thermostat EM Heat Settings: 2023 Edition https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-em-heat/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-em-heat/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:01:45 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=6506---42d6e79f-9178-4d15-ae90-bdc124dac093 What does the Honeywell EM Heat setting on your thermostat mean and when should you turn it on? Read this guide to find out.

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Choosing the “EM Heat” option on your Honeywell thermostat turns on your secondary or auxiliary heating system, greatly speeding up the heating process in your living space.

This helps optimize for large temperature differences but it’s not recommended for continuous use. 

So if you’re wondering about “EM Heat” mode and when it's best to activate it, this article will show you how. 

What is Honeywell Thermostat EM Heat?

Emergency heat (often referred to as “EM heat” or “auxiliary heat”) is a backup heating option available in HVAC systems that typically rely on a heat pump as a primary heating source.

  • Typically, it is reserved for situations when your primary heating system fails or cannot provide sufficient warmth during extremely cold weather.
  • Utilizing the Honeywell thermostat EM heat ensures your home stays warm and comfortable even when your main heating mode is compromised, preventing potential damage caused by low temperatures.
  • When you activate the EM heat setting on your Honeywell thermostat, you disable the primary heating mode, which could be a heat pump, and switch to the auxiliary heating mode.
  • In certain models, the thermostat will automatically switch over to the auxiliary heating system whenever it senses that the outside temperature is too low for the heat pump to keep up.
  • This auxiliary mode relies on either an electric heat strip or a backup gas furnace to generate the needed warmth.
  • Although both these options will effectively heat your space, using the electric heat strip can significantly increase your energy consumption and result in higher electricity bills.
  • As such, EM heat should only be used as a temporary solution until the primary heating system is restored.

How to Switch Between Emergency Heat Mode and Other Modes

Depending on the model, the option to toggle the emergency heat may vary. So to address this, I’ve created a model-specific guide below. 

You can check these guides or head over to our collated list of Honeywell thermostat user manuals to browse the guide for your specific model.  

Honeywell Home App

Here's how to switch to emergency heat mode using the Honeywell Home App.

  1. Open the app on your smartphone or tablet.
  2. After that, browse through the app to locate and select your specific thermostat.
  3. Tap the “Mode” button located at the bottom right of the screen.
  4. Look for “EM Heat” or “Emergency Heat” among the mode options and select it.
  5. Save changes by tapping on the “Save” button to enable Emergency Heat on your Honeywell thermostat.
honeywell thermostat em heat
Changing temperature mode on the Honeywell Home app

T10 Pro and T9 Models

Smart thermostat with a color touchscreen

T9 1

For the recent T9 and T10 Pro models:

  1. Wake up the thermostat display by touching on it
  2. Then, access the main menu by pressing the three horizontal lines icon at the bottom of the home screen.
  3. Once you’re in the main menu, you will see various system modes options such as Heat, Off, Cool, Auto, and EM Heat.
  4. If you can’t find EM Heat, scroll down, it’s usually at the end of the list.

However, please note that certain models or HVAC systems won’t always offer the emergency heat setting.

Honeywell Home app showing the changing of modes
Changing the temperature mode on a Honeywell T10-style thermostat

T4, T5 and T6 Models

Smart thermostat with touchscreen

Honeywell Thermostats

For this set of models, the thermostat home screen displays the current system mode at the left of the indoor temperature. Therefore, you can switch between available modes by pressing on the “Mode” button 

How to change the mode on the Honeywell T4, T5 and T6 models
How to change the temperature mode on Honeywell T6 style thermostats

9000 and VisioPRO 8000 Series

Programmable thermostat with touchscreen

90008000 series all 1 2

To set your Honeywell thermostat's system mode for 9000 and 8000 models, follow these steps: 

  1. First, tap the “SYSTEM” button to display the different system settings.
  2. Then, choose the desired mode by tapping the corresponding option:
  3. Tap “Done” to save your selection and exit the settings.

Keep in mind that the Automatic and Emergency Heat settings might not be displayed, depending on your thermostat's installation.

9000 series change mode
Switching temperature modes on a 9000 series style thermostat

5000 and 6000 Series

Programmable thermostats

FocusPRO 6000 Series 1 4

For these programmable models, simply press the “SYSTEM” button to cycle through the available options.

5000 series change mode
Switching between different temperature modes on Honeywell 5000/6000 thermostats

4000 to 1000 Series

Programmable and Non-programmable thermostats

40002000 models 2

For these older models, you can toggle the available options using the physical switch located on the panel. In most models, this switch is at the bottom but can also be found on the side of the panel.

4000 series change mode
Switching temperature mode on older Honeywell thermostats

Similar Questions

When Should I Switch to EM Heat?

Setting the EM Heat on your Honeywell thermostat correctly can significantly improve your home's heating efficiency during cold snaps. Switch to EM Heat when your primary heat pump fails or cannot provide enough warmth. This usually happens during extremely cold weather (less than 30 degrees fahrenheit) or due to a damaged heat pump.

As such, it’s best reserved for true emergencies such as when the heat pump is damaged or nonresponsive.

In certain models, the thermostat will automatically make the switch. 

What Do I Need to Enable the EM Heat Function?

To enable the EM Heat function, your thermostat must be configured for a heat pump with backup heat. 

An installer will usually know how to make this configuration but you can also do this yourself in certain models with the help of the installation manual.

Also, the auxiliary heat pump's signal wire must be connected to the thermostat's wiring.

Doesn't Auto Mode Switch Over to EM Heat When Necessary?

Some thermostat models with the Auto Changeover feature can automatically switch to EM Heat when necessary. 

However, you still need to have the auxiliary heat sources (such as a gas furnace or heat strip) set up and wired correctly.

Is The Emergency Heat Setting More Expensive to Run?

Yes, emergency heat can be considerably more expensive than using the primary heat pump.

The cost difference depends on the heat source (such as gas furnaces or electric heat strips) and the duration of use.

Since it's pricier, I recommend you use the emergency heat setting sparingly and reach out to a professional technician to restore the regular heat pump functions as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The emergency heat mode setting on a Honeywell thermostat will power on the auxiliary heating system.  If you're experiencing issues with EM heat, you might also want to check why your Honeywell thermostat is flashing cool on.

As the name suggests, it’s reserved for extreme temperature changes or when the heat pump stops responding.

You can check the guides above to learn how to toggle this setting for different models. If you're experiencing issues with EM heat, learn more about troubleshooting a Honeywell thermostat not working on our detailed guide.

Sources

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10 Steps to Fix When Honeywell Thermostat Flashing Cool On or Heat On https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-flashing-cool-on/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-flashing-cool-on/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 12:02:30 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=6551---c812e5f3-6b20-4c7b-ab9e-4f602f583e22 If “Cool On” is flashing on your Honeywell Thermostat, it can mean one of two things. Either the AC system is kickstarting which can take up to 5 minutes and is perfectly normal, or there’s a bigger problem which you need to troubleshoot. We help you with a step by step guide.

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From dying batteries to blocked filters and coils

When your Honeywell thermostat continuously displays “Cool On” or “Heat On” alerts without achieving the desired temperature, it unquestionably signals a malfunction.

Normally these messages only flash for five minutes and then turn solid to indicate the system has started. However, if it keeps flashing, it could be due to a communication issue with the AC system. Air conditioning plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Make sure to follow my troubleshooting steps below to get to the root of the problem.

honeywell thermostat flashing cool on

What Does the “Cool On” or “Heat On” Indicator Mean?

During normal operation, the “Cool On” or “Heat On” message stays lit depending on the temperature mode. So if the air conditioner is working to cool down the house, the thermostat will say “Cool On.” It is important to set the thermostat to ‘cool mode' to ensure proper cooling. Meanwhile, if the heat pump is working to heat up, the thermostat will instead display “Heat On.”

“Cool On” indicator on a Honeywell T6 display

T6 Pro Smart Cool On Flashing
“Cool On” indicator on a Honeywell T6 display

Compressor Protection Feature

However, if either of these messages are flashing it can imply that the thermostat is running the compressor protection feature, known as the delay mode. The delay mode helps protect the compressor by preventing wear and potential damage.

In some models, this message is displayed as “Waiting for equipment”. The thermostat activates a startup delay to protect the compressor from voltage fluctuations after a power loss, allowing the AC system to reset and readjust to normal operating conditions.

As the name suggests, it’s an intentional safety feature to prevent any harm to your compressor, especially in the event of a power outage.

By taking about 5 minutes to cycle, the thermostat ensures that everything runs smoothly and avoids the damage caused by intermittent power cuts or surges.

So after you’ve just recovered from a power cut, the “Cool On” or “Heat On” message would stay flashing for five minutes. After which, it will remain solid and the HVAC system will kick in.

10 Steps to Troubleshoot a Honeywell Thermostat Flashing Cool On or Heat On Indicator

When the “Cool On” or “Heat On” indicator continues to flash for more than five minutes without hot/cold air coming in, it can indicate a malfunctioning thermostat. If the issue persists, it is important to consult an HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve the problem.

If so, I recommend following the troubleshooting steps laid out below.

1. Wait 5-10 minutes

Your thermostat could be facing a slight delay in restarting and activating its compressor protection feature, which is often indicated on the thermostat display.

Make sure to wait at least 5 minutes before further troubleshooting. I recommend waiting for a solid 10 minutes so you can confidently rule out the compressor protection feature.

Room Temperature Not Reaching Thermostat Setting

2. Set the Thermostat to its Lowest Temperature Setting

You can verify the thermostat’s ability to manage the cooling system by adjusting its settings.

  • First, set the thermostat to the lowest possible temperature.
  • Ensure that the mode is set to “Cool” and that the fan setting is on “Auto.”
  • After making these adjustments, give it some time.
  • Check if the AC comes to life or if you experience any change in the room’s temperature, specifically if cool air is being emitted from the vents.

This will help determine if the thermostat is effectively controlling the temperature function.

3: Check if the Thermostat is in Setup Mode or if the Clock is Set

In certain models, when the thermostat is recovering from a power outage, it may revert to setup mode, causing the “Honeywell thermostat cool on” lights to blink.

To resolve this, check your thermostat’s settings and make any necessary adjustments.

Also, verify that the time displayed on your thermostat is accurate. An incorrect time setting can interfere with the schedule settings and glitch out the thermostat.

alkaline batteries

4: Check the Thermostat Batteries/Power Connection

Weak batteries can prevent your thermostat from initiating the cooling process.

To fix this, replace the thermostat batteries by removing the thermostat from the wall mount and replacing the batteries on the back of the panel.

T6 Battery Replace
Batteries located at the back of the thermostat panel

If your thermostat uses a 24 VAC power source instead of batteries, inspect the wiring.

To do so:

  • First, turn off the power to your HVAC system.
  • Next, remove the thermostat, ensuring you unscrew it first if necessary.
  • Then, examine the C-wire to confirm its proper connection.
  • Make sure there is no dust, dirt, or debris, and clean the contacts.
  • You can also try reconnecting the terminals, making sure they are secure.
  • Additionally, check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn't tripped, as this can affect the power supply to your thermostat.

Check out our guide on how to change Honeywell thermostat batteries

5. Check the Voltage at the Thermostat Contacts

If you know how to troubleshoot electrical components and you already have a multimeter, you can check the voltage in the thermostat wires. 

Make sure that the R and C contacts have a voltage between 24-30V; lower values might indicate insufficient power.

6. Check the Power in Each Component of the Cooling System

If the previous steps haven’t resolved the issue, you’ll need to diagnose the rest of the HVAC system.

  • First, inspect the power supply of your air handler, fans, furnace, AC unit, and outdoor unit.
  • Watch out for unusual humming or clicking noises coming from your equipment, as these might indicate a problem.
  • Also, examine the power supply for each device.
  • Make sure that connectors and sockets are appropriately plugged in, and switches are turned on.
  • While examining your equipment, check if the doors or panels are properly closed. Loose or detached parts and any obstructions may cause the safety switches to disconnect, especially the furnace door.
  • If possible, check the fuses or switches visually or by using the continuity setting on a multimeter
  • Then, inspect your circuit breakers for any irregularities.
  • Try turning your equipment on and off, as well as resetting the breaker corresponding to these devices.

7. Check the Indoor AC Air Filters

It’s essential to regularly inspect your indoor AC air filter to make sure it doesn’t need replacing. Replacing air filters every three months is crucial for maintaining optimal performance.

A clogged or dirty filter hinders proper airflow and can lead to decreased cooling efficiency and poor air quality inside your house.

It can also put extra strain on your thermostat and other equipment, ultimately leading to higher energy bills.

So I recommend making it a habit to change your AC filter every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Heat Pump

8. Check AC Coils and See if they are Dirty

The external AC coils can also become dirty or blocked over time.

  • As the coil accumulates dirt, it hampers proper airflow and reduces its ability to absorb heat and adequately cool the air.
  • Inspect your AC unit's coils to see if there is buildup on the fins, indicating the need for a thorough cleaning.
  • However, always make sure the unit is turned off before attempting any cleaning or maintenance.
  • To reduce the chances of clogging and improve efficiency, keep the area around the AC clean and provide ample space for airflow by removing any nearby plants or debris.

9. Reset your Thermostat

In some cases, resetting your thermostat to factory defaults might be necessary.

Keep in mind that this process will erase your settings and programmed schedule, so it's a good idea to take note of any configurations you don't want to forget.To reset a Honeywell thermostat, check out my detailed reset guide which covers all Honeywell thermostat models.

Thermostat Wire Colors

10. Bypass the Thermostat

If you’re somewhat more skilled at DIY, especially when it comes to dealing with electrical components, you can try to bypass the thermostat. 

However, make sure you have a multimeter and a proper tool to create a jumper wire.

  • First, turn off the power switch on the furnace or air handler, and also disconnect the thermostat from the breaker.
  • Then, take out the thermostat from the wall mount.
  • After that, run one end of a jumper to R (Power) and the other end to Y (Cooling) or W (Heating) on the thermostat contacts.
  • With this setup in place, turn the power back on and check if the AC or furnace/air handler turns on. 
  • If these components turn on without any issue, the thermostat is indeed defective.

Final Step: Call in the Professionals!

When you’ve exhausted all possible solutions and your thermostat is still flashing “Cool On,” it’s time to get the help of an HVAC technician.

  • A trained technician can likely pinpoint the problem and fix it with ease.
  • Some common issues that may require professional intervention include damaged wiring, a malfunctioning capacitor, an obstructed sensor, or a blown fuse.
  • In addition, components like the compressor, condenser, or fan motor may need further inspection.
  • For a recently installed thermostat, an expert can verify proper wire connections and ensure the device is set up correctly for your specific HVAC system.

Conclusion

If the Cool On or Heat On message is flashing for more than five minutes, it will require you to troubleshoot the entire HVAC and air conditioning system.

The troubleshooting guide above will help you do just that so if you follow those steps, you’ll be able to get to the root cause in no time.

However, if you aren’t able to check the circuit breakers or the rest of your HVAC system, always get a professional to help you.

Sources

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Honeywell Thermostat Not Working: Troubleshoot Guide https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-not-working-troubleshooting/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-not-working-troubleshooting/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:35:44 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=35938---6b320fad-989e-45dd-9984-04d8ac847bd1 Is your Honeywell thermostat not working properly? Check our troubleshooting guide out and fix your problem the easy way.

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Application Error

From blank displays to flashing error messages, for both smart and non-smart Honeywell thermostats

In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step troubleshooting process to help you fix your faulty system. It’s important to check the air conditioner, AC unit, wall plate, thermostat settings, and power source as part of the troubleshooting process. This guide focuses on thermostat troubleshooting to ensure your system runs smoothly. Performing a thermostat reset might be necessary as part of the troubleshooting process.

Troubleshooting Procedure

I’ve broken this guide into two sections for easier explanation:

  • Scenario 1: If your thermostat has a blank display and is not responding to any button presses, then continue reading.
  • Scenario 2: If your thermostat has an active display that responds to touch, but, the heating or AC unit is not turning on or reaching the set temperature then jump to Scenario 2. In this case, the thermostat may possibly flash an error code or message like “cool on”, “heat on”, “wait”, “waiting for equipment”, or specific thermostat error codes. This could indicate an issue with the cooling system, requiring you to check the thermostat settings, wiring, power source, and overall equipment functionality. Additionally, performing a thermostat reset might be a necessary step in the troubleshooting process.

Scenario 1: Troubleshooting a Blank Screen on the Thermostat

If the thermostat display is not waking up to button presses or touch gestures for smart thermostats, it may be a malfunction, an electrical problem, a blank screen, or the device may be out of power.

Besides that, it can also indicate an issue within the internals of the thermostat. A malfunctioning furnace door switch can prevent the thermostat from working properly.

So let’s walk through the troubleshooting steps in a blank display, step by step.

So let’s walk through troubleshooting a blank display, step by step.

Step 1. Check if the Thermostat Panel is Pressed In

First, you want to check if the thermostat panel is firmly pressed in.

If it’s not, make sure to take it out, unscrew any fasteners, and re-install the panel. The new thermostat panel should stay flush with the wall plate.

Even if the panel isn’t loose, I highly recommend to gently pull the thermostat panel and reinstall it for good measure. While you’re doing so, make sure to follow the second step.

Honeywell Thermostats Pressing in the Panel 1
Instructions to press in the thermostat panel for different models

Step 2. Check the Thermostat Wiring

So while you’re unplugging the thermostat panel, it’s a good idea to check the thermostat wiring for loose connections or damage and verify the thermostat settings are correct.

The wiring configuration may vary based on your system setup, but always check for the red-colored R-wire and make sure it’s connected securely to the appropriate terminal.

Beyond that, you can check for the black-colored C wire, if your thermostat doesn’t run on batteries. Additionally, ensure the G terminal is properly connected, as it activates the fan to circulate cooler air in your home.To learn more about thermostat wiring, you can check out this guide.

Step 3. Check the Batteries

After checking the wiring, it’s also a good idea to check the thermostat batteries, and possibly replace them if you haven’t done so in a while.

Even in cases of screen flickering, fading, or completely turning off, replacing the batteries might quickly solve your issue.

Most thermostats have batteries and still take power from the HVAC system, but some models work only on batteries. Nevertheless, replacing the batteries is always a good idea.

Also, don’t forget to check out my extensive guide on how to replace batteries for all Honeywell thermostat models.

Now, reinstall everything and see if the thermostat lights up.

Step 4. Check the Power

If the panel doesn’t power on, even after following through with the steps above, it could be due to an electrical problem. Check the circuit breaker and the lights on your HVAC system, and ensure the thermostat power source is functioning correctly.

Also, look for any safety switches near the unit. If your thermostat has one, make sure it’s flipped to the “on” position.

Step 5. Check Furnace Doors

If your thermostat is connected to a furnace, it is possible that the furnace door is not shut properly. Furnaces usually have a door switch, and some thermostats are extremely sensitive to the furnace door switch as it’s a safety concern. A malfunctioning furnace door switch can prevent the thermostat from working properly.

Check if doors are closed and sensors and indicators are working. If the door switch is broken or seems to have damaged wires, you might need to get it replaced with the help of a technician.

Step 6. Check the Voltage in the Thermostat Wires

If you’re comfortable tackling electrical components yourself, and you already have a multimeter on hand, you can check the thermostat voltage by measuring the DC voltage coming in from the HVAC system and connecting to the thermostat.

Remove the thermostat panel from the mounting plate and check the DC voltage between the R and C contacts. For most systems, they need to be around 24-30V.

If you find a lower voltage, it might mean a wiring error or fault within the HVAC system, or an electrical problem.

Optional Step: Try Bypassing the Thermostat

If you have access to a tool or a contraption to create a jumper wire, you can try a thermostat bypass.

This isn’t a proper solution per se, but with this method, you can confirm if the issue lies within the thermostat and not the HVAC.

To bypass the thermostat:

  • Turn off the breakers for the thermostat and the rest of the HVAC (furnaces, heat pumps, etc.)
  • After that, remove the thermostat panel from its wall mount
  • Fix one end of the jumper to the R contact and the other end to the AC or furnace contacts. Usually, it’s Y for cooling and W for heating.
  • After the jumpers are installed, switch the power back on and see if the HVAC kicks in.

If the furnace or AC unit powers on without any issues, you can safely rule out the HVAC system. Then, the issue is definitely within the thermostat itself.

Conversely, if the HVAC doesn’t work, you might have to troubleshoot it further.

Scenario 2: Troubleshooting the HVAC not reaching the set temperature

In this scenario, your thermostat has an active display that responds to touch, however, the heating or air conditioning system is not reaching its set temperature. In this case, the thermostat may possibly flash an error code or message like “cool on”, “heat on”, “wait”, “waiting for equipment”, or specific thermostat error codes. To troubleshoot, check the thermostat settings and ensure the power source is functioning correctly.

If a specific error code is showing, I recommend checking out this error code guide here.

Step 1. Change the Temperature

The first thing you can do if your thermostat display is on, but doesn’t power on the HVAC, is to adjust the thermostat temperature settings.

So, first, try changing the temperature on your Honeywell thermostat.

Also, make sure the desired temperature falls within the acceptable ranges.

Specifically, set the heating between 40 °F to 90 °F (4.5 °C to 32.0 °C) and the cooling between 50 °F to 99 °F (10.0 °C to 37.0 °C). If you go beyond these ranges, the HVAC won’t kick in.

Step 2. Wait 5-10 Minutes

If your display shows a “wait” message, or flashes “cool on” or “heat on,” you can simply wait it out for five minutes or so, which is known as the thermostat wait time.

This step helps you safely rule out the compressor protection feature.

Step 3. Change the Temperature Mode

However, if the HVAC doesn’t power on after that, try resetting or changing the thermostat mode first. This can help the thermostat reconfigure itself.

Also, if you find that the heating unit works while the cooling does not (or vice-versa) you can easily tell that the issue lies within the component that doesn’t power on.

Step 4. Verify the Temperature Sensor is Working Correctly

In certain situations, although rare, the thermostat sensor inside the thermostat, or the one connected to it, might be malfunctioning. In this case, it’s a good idea to verify the temperature readings using an external temperature gauge to ensure accurate temperature readings.

If the room temperature displayed on your thermostat or smart sensor isn’t consistent with the reading on a thermometer, it might imply the sensor is faulty.

Faulty Smart Sensor

In the case of faulty smart sensors (like the T9 smart room sensor), you can unlink the smart thermostat sensor from the app and replace it with a new one later (or replace the battery in the sensor).

Fault in the Embedded Temperature Sensor in the Thermostat

If it’s the temp sensor in your thermostat that’s incorrect, you might have to get the embedded thermostat sensor looked at by a technician or replace it entirely.

Step 5. Check the Wiring

Weak splices, wrong or loose connections, exposed wiring, or a faulty thermostat may cause issues and prevent your thermostat from working properly.

In this case, isolate the circuit, unscrew the thermostat, and check if the wires are connected correctly to address any thermostat wiring issues, and verify the thermostat settings are accurate.

Check if Y and Y2 are attached to the correct color wire for cooling. For heating, check if W and W2 are attached to the correct color wire.

Also, you may want to verify if there are Rh and Rc wires in your system and whether they are attached to the proper terminals identified by the correct color.

Step 6. Check Individual Components

If possible, you can check all the individual thermostat components of your HVAC, including the air conditioner, air filters.

This might include checking the switches, indicators, fuses, and wiring for your furnace, heat pump, and AC unit, and ensure the power source is functioning correctly, and verify the thermostat settings are accurate.

Final Step: Call in the Experts

When all else fails and your Honeywell thermostat remains unresponsive, consider seeking professional help from a thermostat technician.

A technician can quickly identify and fix common issues, such as damaged wiring, malfunctioning capacitors, obstructed sensors, or blown fuses, while also inspecting components like the compressor, condenser, or fan motor.

Conclusion

A Honeywell programmable thermostat will stop working either because the display is off or the HVAC is not responding.

By following the steps outlined for each situation, including checking the thermostat settings and power source, you can get to the root of the problem and ensure it won’t happen again.

However, make sure to call in a professional support if you’re not comfortable diagnosing electrical components and always follow the proper safety precautions.

This article serves as a thermostat troubleshooting guide to help you address common issues with your Honeywell programmable thermostat.

Sources

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Why Does My Nest Say Delayed? [countdown for 2-5 mins] https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/nest-thermostat-delayed/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/nest-thermostat-delayed/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 08:20:39 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=7140---15220fc3-7cb4-4853-988d-e8f2570e1367 What “Delayed” means on a Nest Thermostat, how it impacts your AC system and ways to fix it!

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Users often encounter notifications like ‘Heating is delayed' or ‘Cooling is delayed' on their Nest thermostat, which can be perplexing.

The continuous appearance of these warnings can hint at hardware problems, such as a power shortage with the thermostat's power supply in your smart devices, indicating potential hardware issues.

There are two ways that Nest Thermostats receive power:

  1. The HVAC equipment (such as the furnace) powers and recharges the internal battery when it is turned on.
  2. Additional charging occurs through the common wire or C-Wire.

In certain scenarios, your thermostat simply does not get enough power from your HVAC equipment when it is turned on, resulting in a low-power state, indicating potential hardware problems and a power shortage.

This low-power state is the cause of the delayed message you receive along with a number of other problems and malfunctions that can occur within your HVAC controls, often due to insufficient battery power.

Read on to find out how to temporarily fix this problem, along with 5 ways to supply your thermostat with a C-Wire.

TLDR – Links to Devices to supply power

A C-Wire alternative designed for Nest Thermostat
A generic C-Wire alternative
24 volt transformer for a nearby power outlet

Differences in battery types based on the Nest Thermostat model

Newer models, such as the Nest Thermostat E and Nest Learning Thermostat later generations feature an internal rechargeable battery that users cannot replace independently.

The furnace powers and recharges the internal battery when turned on, while further charging occurs through a common wire.

Whereas the older Nest Thermostat operates on two 1.5V AAA alkaline batteries, which require replacement as they deplete, indicating hardware problems and potential hardware failure due to power shortages.

Nest Thermostat Delayed
No C-Wire In Place

Troubleshooting Hardware Problems

Nest Thermostat Delayed: Low power going to your thermostat.

Low power going to your thermostat can cause various issues, including delays in your Nest thermostat's operation. Unlike traditional thermostats, Nest devices require more power to support their advanced functions, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, motion sensors, and other smart features.

When the integrated rechargeable battery drains too quickly, the thermostat may struggle to regulate heating, cooling, and fan operation consistently.

Can function without a C-wire

Although Nest thermostats can technically function without a C-wire, sometimes they cannot draw enough power from the heating or cooling system alone.

This lack of power may cause problems, such as the “Nest Thermostat Delayed” message.

To resolve this issue and restore proper functioning, you'll need to inspect the C-wire connection on your Nest thermostat.

Simply detach the display and examine the panel labeled ‘C', where a blue wire should be present if you're experiencing low power issues.

If you don’t see one, installing a C-wire provides a consistent power supply, helping to prevent future delays and malfunctions in your smart thermostat system.

Purpose of the C-Wire and the internal battery

The C-wire, also known as the “common” wire, is crucial for providing a continuous power supply to your Nest thermostat.

Unlike the Rh and Rc wires, which only provide power when switched on, the C-wire allows for a steady flow of electricity to the thermostat at all times.

This constant power supply helps in maintaining the thermostat's internal battery.

A healthy battery ensures that all smart features of your Nest thermostat operate smoothly, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, software updates, and motion sensing.

Impact of Continuous Power 

Having a continuous power supply through the C-wire prevents your Nest thermostat from experiencing low voltage issues.

As mentioned, certain actions and features require a specific voltage, and when the battery voltage drops, these features may not function properly or at all.

In extremely low voltage cases, the Nest thermostat may even disable its screen to preserve the remaining battery life.

By connecting the C-wire to your thermostat, you can maintain a consistent power supply, ensuring all of the smart functions and features work efficiently, and avoiding any potential delays or malfunctions.

Nest Thermostat

Temporary Solution: Charge the Thermostat

A temporary solution to the “Delayed” error message on your Nest Thermostat is charging the device.

  • To do this, carefully take the thermostat display off the wall
  • Connect the appropriate micro-USB charging cable to both the thermostat and a power source, such as a USB wall charger or your laptop's USB port. The charging process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Keep an eye out for a flashing red light on the thermostat, which indicates that it is charging.
  • Once fully charged, reattach the display to the wall.

While this charging method can resolve the “Delayed” error temporarily, it is not a long-term solution.

Check out the below solutions to permanently fix this issue.

Permanent Solution: Provide a C-Wire to your Nest Thermostat

To permanently resolve Nest thermostat delays, consider adding a C-Wire to your system. Firstly check if one is installed, by going to “Settings” and “Equipment” on the thermostat.

If one isn’t installed then check out the options below. If there is one installed, check out our other solutions section below.

Option 1: Hardwire a C-Wire

To hardwire a C-wire, you'll need to connect it to both your HVAC system and your Nest thermostat.

Make sure you turn off the power to your equipment before installation to ensure safety.

Keep in mind that this process can be a significant task if there is no spare wire available, as the wiring between your furnace and thermostat likely runs behind walls or in hard-to-reach locations.

Below are the steps involved for scenarios where there is an unused wire not connected to either the thermostat or the HVAC system.

  1. Turn off the power supply to your HVAC system and verify that it is off.
  2. Remove the face plate of your Nest thermostat and take a picture of the wiring for reference. Label each wire with the corresponding terminal letter.
  3. Check if you have an unused wire that can be used as a C-Wire. If not, you may need to run a new wire from your system to your thermostat. (Or check out the other options below). The C-Wire is typically blue. Connect the wire to the C terminal on the Nest.
  4. Find the other end of the thermostat wiring near your HVAC equipment, and identify the unused wire. Connect it to the C / Com terminal on the control board of your system.
  5. Finally, restore power to the furnace and Nest, reattach the Nest display cover, and test to see if your thermostat is working properly. You can confirm the blue C wire now appears as connected under “Equipment.”
Nest Thermostat Blinking Lights

Option 2: Use the Nest Power Connector

A C-Wire alternative designed for Nest Thermostat

The Nest Power Connector comes in handy for providing a stable power source to your Nest thermostat if your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is unable to deliver consistent power.

Specifications
  • A comprehensive alternative to connecting a common wire (C wire) or hiring a professional installer to run a new C wire, the Nest Power Connector is compatible with the Nest Thermostat, Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd gen), and Nest Thermostat E.

To install, simply plug it into the wall and connect the black and white wires to your system's power terminals, while attaching the red wire to the C terminal.

The connector then transmits a signal to the thermostat, alerting it when to turn the system on or off.

Fixes Power Issues

A Nest Power Connector or C wire can help fix power-related issues, such as a rapidly draining battery or Wi-Fi disconnections, by providing a stable power supply to your Nest thermostat.

If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, a professional installer can manage the process for you.

Option 3: Use a Common Maker

A Common Maker, such as the Fast-STAT, offers a convenient solution for connecting a C-Wire without pulling additional cables.

It features a wireless sender and receiver that simplify the process, making it a time-saving and cost-effective alternative to rewiring your thermostat.

A generic C-Wire alternative

The Fast-STAT Common Maker consists of two components: a sender, which is connected to the thermostat, and a receiver, which is installed at your furnace.

Specifications
  • By adding a common "C" connection to your thermostat, it allows a 24-Volt power source to be included in the existing installation.
  • Additionally, the Fast-STAT can accommodate a distance of up to 300 feet between the sender and receiver when using an 18 AWG cable, and it doesn't require any batteries.

Option 4: Install a C-Wire Adapter

Installing a C-Wire adapter is an effective DIY solution if your Nest thermostat setup lacks the necessary C-wire and you don’t want the hassle of installing the Nest Power Connector or Common Maker.

These adapters, designed specifically for the Nest thermostat, are user-friendly and easy to install.

By plugging the adapter into a nearby outlet and wiring it directly to your thermostat, you can eliminate the Delayed message.

To minimize visible wires, simply run the adapter wire along the wall or within it.

24 volt transformer for a nearby power outlet

This versatile adapter powers popular smart thermostats and doorbells while ensuring safe device charging.

Specifications
  • With an 8-meter (315-inch) long cable, you can conveniently plug the adapter into an outlet without worrying about distance limitations.

Option 5: Reuse your G Wire as a C Wire

The G-wire is the green wire that enables independent control of your blower fan and is not to be confused with a ground wire. In this solution, you’ll be removing it from the G-terminal in the thermostat and installing it the same way for a C-wire. 

The same needs to be completed at the furnace. Using this is a cheap and easy way to get continuous power to your thermostat however you do lose independent control over your ventilation fan.

  • Verify your HVAC system compatibility: Before starting, ensure that your HVAC system will not be affected by the repurposing of the G-wire.
  • Loss of independent fan control: Be aware that using the G-wire as a C-wire means you'll no longer have the option to use the fan on its own or in “fan-only” mode.
  • Disconnect the G-wire: Carefully remove the G-wire from the G terminal in the thermostat.
  • Connect G-wire to the C terminal: Attach the G-wire to the C-terminal within the thermostat, setting it up like a C-wire.
  • Repeat at the furnace: Perform the same process at the furnace to ensure proper functioning.
  • Consider zone panel compatibility: If your HVAC system has a zone panel, this option may not be feasible, so check compatibility beforehand.
  • Jumper cable connection: Depending on your system, you might need to connect a jumper cable between the empty G-terminal and Y-terminal for proper functionality.

Other Causes & Solutions

Advanced Software Features Draining Battery

Advanced software features can potentially drain your Nest thermostat's battery faster than the C-Wire or equipment can recharge it.

To prevent this issue, verify that your thermostat's software is up-to-date and consider disabling certain features to save battery life.

Nest Thermostat 1

In recent months, Nest thermostats have received software updates to enhance sensor accuracy and Wi-Fi connection reliability.

Additionally, set your smartphone to automatically update the Nest app and Google Home app, ensuring you always have the latest features and improvements.

Loose C-Wire Connection

A loose C-wire connection can cause Nest thermostat delays, as the necessary power supply to the battery may be inconsistent.

To resolve this issue, inspect your wiring to identify any loose connections and secure them firmly, ensuring uninterrupted power to your Nest thermostat and improved performance.

Faulty HVAC Power Source

A faulty HVAC power source can cause your Nest thermostat to experience delays, even if it's properly connected to a C-wire.

To troubleshoot this issue, check your HVAC equipment for any visible damage or loose connections, and ensure the power supply is functioning correctly.

If necessary, consult a professional technician to assess and repair the problem, as this will not only fix the Nest thermostat delays but also contribute to the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.

Battery Failing

A failing internal battery is a common cause of Nest thermostat delays. Integrated batteries should last 5 – 10 years however some may have defects resulting in a shorter life span.

If your battery is on its last legs and is under warranty, you may be able to get a free replacement.

Nest thermostat batteries are non-serviceable parts so it’s not possible to replace them.

Get Professional Help with a Nest Pro

If you're uncertain about the issue or aren’t confident in resolving it yourself, consider contacting a local Nest Pro for help.

These professionals possess the knowledge and skills to identify and rectify any problems with your thermostat and HVAC system.

They'll also handle more complex tasks, such as connecting a C wire or a Nest Power Connector if required.

A Nest Pro offers specialized installation services for Nest devices, such as thermostats, through Google's partners Handy and OnTech.

These services offer the convenience of online scheduling, availability during evenings and weekends, and a one-year workmanship warranty for your peace of mind.

Nest Airwave

Tips to protect your AC Compressor

Experiencing delays with your Nest Thermostat can be frustrating, but it's essential to understand how it protects your AC compressor and learn ways to improve its efficiency.

  1. Keep AC unit area clean: Remove debris and dust from around your outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow.
  2. Schedule regular maintenance: Have an HVAC professional inspect your system, as small issues can add up and affect the compressor's lifespan.
  3. Ensure proper lubrication and pump function: Regularly check the lubricant and pump to prevent overheating and maintain efficiency.
  4. Change filters biannually: Replace your HVAC filters every six months to improve airflow and reduce strain on your compressor.
  5. Inspect wiring: Regularly check for any damaged or frayed wires to avoid potential hazards, and ensure proper electrical connections.
  6. Monitor refrigerant levels: Have a professional perform regular refrigerant checks, as low levels can lead to reduced efficiency and damage to the AC compressor.

Nest Thermostat Delayed: Conclusion

In conclusion, the “Heating is delayed” or “Cooling is delayed” message on your Nest Thermostat indicates that your device is not getting enough power to operate properly. 

This can affect your comfort and the performance of your system, as well as cause other problems with your HVAC system. 

To prevent this issue, you should consider installing a C-wire or a C-wire accessory to provide a stable and consistent power source for your Nest thermostat. 

By doing so, you can enjoy the full benefits of your smart device and avoid any delays or malfunctions.

We hope this solved the Nest Thermostat Delayed error message.

Sources

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Top 9 Millivolt Thermostats for your Gas Heaters https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/millivolt-thermostat/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/millivolt-thermostat/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:43:47 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=7597---2e71b7a5-608f-4966-8ec0-23de3f62a550 Keep your home safe and regulate your gas heaters with a smart and reliable millivolt thermostat.

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Millivolt thermostats play a critical role in safeguarding your home from unforeseen temperature fluctuations. They are instrumental in assuring that your gas heaters deliver the required warmth for your abode.

9.5 Honeywell Home
TOP PICKAn intuitive thermostat that is compatible with 750 millivolt and gas fireplaces
9.2 Lux Products
A millivolt thermostat with optional child-lock

Despite smart thermostats being the popular choice these days, only the Lux Geo-WH thermostat qualifies as a “smart thermostat”. Unfortunately, a number of users are having reliability issues with the app and software which is why we can't rank it higher.

What is a Millivolt Heating System?

A millivolt heating system is commonly found in floor heaters and wall heaters that have no external electrical power source. Such heaters include gas-fueled wall heaters or gas fireplaces.

This millivolt heating system can only be regulated by a millivolt thermostat. The thermostats used for a millivolt heating system might be programmable, non-programmable, Wi-Fi enabled or smart.

9.5
TOP PICK
An intuitive thermostat that is compatible with 750 millivolt and gas fireplaces

While not officially a “smart thermostat”, the T5 has a number of smart features such as learning the heating cycle time of a fireplace or furnace to deliver the correct temperature.

Top Features
  • Temperature limits help save equipment and reduce energy bills.
  • Can be battery powered or hardwired
  • Nice back-lit interface

Honeywell T5 Touchscreen has a large backlit display and its touchscreen interface gives it quite a modern look.

The T5 thermostat can be powered either with an alkaline battery or C-wire. It features “Smart Response Learning technology” which learns how long the equipment takes to get the room to temperature and then takes that into account when executing the schedule.

What I liked
  • The device allows users to program each day of the week differently or with the same schedule for the whole week.
  • The thermostat is easy to set up and operate.
  • Honeywell is a well established brand in the heating controls industry
What I didn't like
  • The lack of geofencing features is a drawback for this device, as the feature is useful when trying to reduce energy costs.

The Orbit 83521 millivolt thermostat was designed to give homeowners the final say when it comes to the temperature of their homes.

Top Features
  • Nice, contemporary design should fit in every home.
  • Programming made easy with the ‘copy feature’, which allows users to copy and paste schedule times.
  • Saves 33% of energy costs with the energy star feature.

Decide and program the temperature of your home for 7 days (each day can have up to four different periods). 

The 9.3 ounces millivolt thermostat does not lose programmed data when the battery is replaced. Although users will have to reset the time and date, the personalized data remains intact and functional, which is very convenient and saves a lot of set-up time.

To save battery, the warm backlight turns off 10 seconds after the last button is pressed. Also, the device is designed with the ‘energy star feature’ which saves energy and money.

Tech Specs

The Orbit 83521 millivolt thermostat cannot be used with baseboard heaters, multi-phase heating systems, and of course, line voltage heating systems.

What I liked
  • The device has no traces of mercury, a dangerous metallic substance.
  • The device has precision measures that maintain the temperature within +/- 1 Fahrenheit of the set level.
  • The switches, buttons, and controls are simple to comprehend and operate.
  • No auxiliary heat source is needed.
  • The warm backlight LCD makes it visible to older people and it can be viewed from across the room.
What I didn't like
  • The thermostat is not compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, meaning it cannot be controlled via voice commands.
  • The device lacks geofencing technology.
9.2
A millivolt thermostat with optional child-lock

The Lux TX9600TS Thermostat has a pretty big display and can be locked with a four-digit password to prevent children from tampering.

Top Features
  • Compatible with most types of 24-volt systems including cooling and heating systems along with millivolt systems.
  • To save battery, users can place the thermostat on vacation hold when they are going on a long journey.
  • The thermostat has an electro-luminescent lighted display coupled with a large display which can be easily viewed without getting too close to the thermostat.

The device comes with a 5-minute programmable time delay for equipment safety.

The 9.8 ounce thermostat has a touchscreen display which is easy to understand and use.  Like Orbit 83521, users can program the temperature of their homes for 7 days (each day can have 2-4 different periods).

Tech Specs

The Lux TX9600TS millivolt thermostat cannot work with 120/240 VAC line-voltage systems without a step-down transformer. The function of a step-down transformer is to lower the induced voltage passing through the secondary coil, reducing the overall output voltage.

What I liked
  • The device has smart recovery features and battery-free memory storage.
  • The device is password enabled.
What I didn't like
  • The device lacks geofencing features.
  • The thermostat is not compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • There’s no AM or PM indicator on the touchscreen display.

Top Features
  • Smart recovery feature
  • 2 inch square backlit display
  • Retains personalized data after power loss.

The Saswell Single Stage thermostat is a ‘simple but functional’ millivolt thermostat every homeowner needs.

The 8.8 ounce thermostat does not need battery replacement, as long as there’s constant electric power. Users can use two “AA” alkaline batteries to keep the thermostat working during power loss.

What I liked
  • The thermostat can be scheduled for a week.
  • The design is sleek and can fit in every home.
  • The device is simple to understand and operate.
What I didn't like
  • The device is not designed with geofencing tech, an automatic energy saver.
  • There’s no voice control option since the device is not compatible with virtual assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Other Millivolt Thermostats

If you’re looking for a millivolt thermostat that does its work efficiently, without expending unnecessary energy, the GEO-WH thermostat is a perfect fit.

Top Features
  • Designed with Geofencing — a program that alerts the thermostat when the user is inside or outside the house.
  • Programmable and easy to install.
  • Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

A recent app update appears to have caused major issues for users so we'd advise reaching out to Lux before purchasing to ensure the latest version of the app can do what you need

Millivolt thermostats are known for their poor efficiency, as the pilot light (the gas flame that ignites a more powerful gas burner) generally wastes fuel in the long run. 

However, Lux GEO-WH is an exception. The GPS-fortified millivolt thermostat saves energy by using its geofencing feature to regulate the heating or cooling activities of home equipment when the user is inside or outside their home.

Besides its geofencing features, the GEO-WH thermostat can easily be controlled from any location with the aid of a free iOS or Android app.

It can be controlled with voice commands, as well. Users with Alexa, Google assistant or Siri can operate their GEO-WH millivolt thermostat from the comfort of their bed, kitchen or office.

Tech Specs

Like other millivolt thermostats, the GEO-WH millivolt thermostat is not compatible with line voltage systems (120/240 VAC).

What I liked
  • Swift and easy installation coupled with vertical or horizontal mount capability.
  • The device can be powered in two ways: battery or C-wire (aka system power).
  • Users can update their ‘home and away’ status via the app.
  • Saves fuel with the geofencing feature.
  • The thermostat has a large digital display.
What I didn't like
  • Incompatible with heat pump (Y2) two-stage compressor phases.

Top Features
  • Compatibility with heating and cooling systems.
  • Simple design.
  • Weighs 10.4 ounces.

The Braeburn BRA 1220 thermostat is simple to install and use. The device can work with heating and cooling systems. Users can reduce or increase the temperature of their homes.

The 10.4 ounces millivolt thermostat does not require batteries.

What I liked
  • Users don’t need professional skills to install the device.
  • The device is easy to mount. No professional skills or knowledge needed.
What I didn't like
  • No geofencing option.
  • The thermostat cannot be controlled via virtual assistants.
  • Scheduling the thermostat could be difficult for users since there’s no AM or PM indicator on the touchscreen display.

Top Features
  • Flexible programming allows users to schedule the device for 7 days.
  • Easy to use and mount.
  • Smart recovery feature.

Emerson prides itself on making efficient products with easy-to-use interfaces and sleek designs. The Emerson / White Rodgers millivolt thermostat is no different.

The programmable thermostat has an amperage range of 1.5 amps per terminal supporting 2.5 amps total. It has the option of being powered by battery or C-wire.

What I liked
  • The device retains the users’ data after power loss.
What I didn't like
  • The device does not have geofencing features.
  • The thermostat cannot be connected to virtual assistants.

Top Features
  • Simple digital display.
  • Compatible with baseboard heaters.
  • Weighs 1.6 ounces.

For homeowners looking for a thermostat that works with millivolt heating systems and baseboard heaters, the Emerson 1E78-140 millivolt thermostat is a great fit.

The 1.6 ounce thermostat might not be a perfect option for people who would like to schedule their home temperature because the device lacks flexible programming.

What I liked
  • The thermostat is big on precision control, which measures to +/- 1 degree Fahrenheit.
What I didn't like
  • The device cannot be programmed or scheduled by users.
  • The thermostat does not have a time indicator.
  • Comparatively small digital display.
  • The device does not come with geofencing features.

Millivolt Thermostat Features to Consider

While compiling our list of the top 9 millivolt thermostats, we considered the six features given below to be most important.

Programmable schedules

The weather is not always the same throughout the day, so your room temperature may vary between 2-4 periods a day. The best millivolt thermostats are those that can be programmed for each day of the week.

Some thermostats have automatic delay cycles to protect the equipment from overheating. In case your thermostat is not programmed to, you can set a ‘minimum stop time’ which restricts the compressor from restarting too fast after halting.

Easy to use interface

Whether the thermostat is controlled with a touchscreen interface or push buttons, it should be down-to-earth and user-friendly. A complex interface does no good to anyone.

Users should not have to acquire a “special skill”, so to say, before they can enjoy a product. Try to check the users’ reviews to learn from other peoples’ various experiences with the millivolt thermostat you're considering for purchase.

Stylish design

Gone are the days of old boring thermostats. Ever since the Nest thermostats were launched, the bar is now set for these devices to be stylish and fit into the surrounding room decor.

Apart from the device color, the size of the digital display is also a huge factor. The backlight LED color and size of the displayed content contribute to the visibility of the temperature readings.

Users should be able to know the current temperature level by glancing at the thermostat from across the room.

Remote control via smartphone app

Being able to control your millivolt thermostat via the internet is a great feature. Smart thermostats with apps can be controlled from anywhere, as long as the thermostat is connected to the home Wi-Fi or internet connection.  Also, you can use the smartphone app to change the room temperature from the comfort of your bed.

Voice control

Although most millivolt thermostats do not have voice control interfaces, some are compatible with voice control-enabled devices, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri.

These virtual assistants can regulate compatible millivolt thermostats when the voice command keywords are mentioned. If most of your home gadgets are connected, you may not like millivolt thermostats that are incompatible with your virtual assistant.

Geofencing to save energy

To avoid unnecessary energy waste, thermostats with geofencing technology reduces the activities of heating and cooling systems when the house is not occupied.

Most geofencing-enabled thermostats have smartphone apps. The app alerts the thermostat(s) when the user gets to the virtual geographic point/boundary created with the aid of GPS technology.

Common Questions Relating to Millivolt Thermostats

What is a millivolt thermostat?

The millivolt thermostat is a self-sustaining thermostat which generates its electrical energy from ‘waste energy’ with the use of a thermopile. The thermopile generator is responsible for the conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy.

The thermopile, which consists of several thermocouples, relies on a ‘pilot light’ for thermal energy. The pilot light is a small gas flame that ignites a larger gas burner.

Like low-voltage thermostats, millivolt thermostats require very low voltage (roughly 0.75 volts). However, unlike low-voltage thermostats, they are usually not dependent on a step-down transformer or external electrical source.

How does a millivolt thermostat work?

Thermostatically controlled loads (TCLs) such as water heaters, gas heaters or air conditioners owe their efficiency to thermostats. The thermostat serves as the brain of these devices.

With the use of sensors, thermostats can detect an increase or decrease in the temperature level of the environment. Most thermostats are able to sense and respond to a change in temperature of a controlled area, such as your home.

The two most important parts of the millivolt thermostat are the sensor and thermopile. The sensor detects an unfavorable increase or decrease in room temperature while the thermopile halts or starts the fuel source of the gas heater in response to the temperature change. 

The thermopile generates electricity from thermal energy with the aim of serial thermocouples. It is important to know that thermocouples can also operate in parallel but more often than not, they are arranged in series.

A millivolt thermostat is common in older structures. Millivolt thermostats can only be used for millivolt heating systems. This guide is for homeowners using gas heaters, wall heaters or floor heaters that are built on the millivolt heating model.  

A millivolt thermostat is not compatible with heaters using line voltage systems.

Unlike other forms of thermostats which are designed to depend on electrical energy from an external circuit, millivolt thermostats are self-sufficient. A millivolt thermostat depends on a built-in thermopile. A thermopile converts thermal energy to electrical energy, so no external source of current is needed.

The Verdict

9.5
TOP PICK
An intuitive thermostat that is compatible with 750 millivolt and gas fireplaces

While not officially a “smart thermostat”, the T5 has a number of smart features such as learning the heating cycle time of a fireplace or furnace to deliver the correct temperature.

Top Features
  • Temperature limits help save equipment and reduce energy bills.
  • Can be battery powered or hardwired
  • Nice back-lit interface

Sources

luxproducts.com

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10 Best Smart In-Wall Outlets / Receptacles https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/smart-in-wall-outlets-receptacles/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/smart-in-wall-outlets-receptacles/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:18:38 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=49566---772857c0-6b5e-4471-8220-deac4d6cc673 The integration of current technology into your home typically requires the maintenance of your established electrical outlets. Though, shifting from regular outlets to integrated smart ones within your walls can augment your command over your electronic devices while offering a better understanding of your energy usage. While smart plugs are a quicker alternative to gaining smart control over devices, smart outlets offer…

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The integration of current technology into your home typically requires the maintenance of your established electrical outlets. Though, shifting from regular outlets to integrated smart ones within your walls can augment your command over your electronic devices while offering a better understanding of your energy usage.

While smart plugs are a quicker alternative to gaining smart control over devices, smart outlets offer a much more permanent solution.

This is important for Zigbee and Z-Wave smart homes, as in-wall outlets are the perfect repeaters, to extend the mesh network to all corners of a property.

I’ve recently installed some smart Wi-Fi outlets in my home theater to allow me to complete a “shutdown routine” for my sound equipment and consoles.

In this guide, I talk through some important things to consider before deciding on which outlet to go with.

Top Wi-Fi Picks

7.5 Kasa Smart Plug KP200
Wi-Fi PickIndividual control of each outlet
7.2 Leviton Smart Wi-Fi Outlet
Apple Homekit PickDual outlet receptacle with one smart controlled and the other “always on”
6.3 UltraPro Smart Outlet
Tamper-resistant smart Wi-Fi outlet

Top Z-Wave Picks

7.4 Enbrighten Smart Receptacle
Top Z-Wave PickIn-wall installation with hardwired connections and neutral wire required
6.6 Bryant Z-Wave Smart Outlet
Z-Wave Runner UpTamper-resistant design for safe use

Top Zigbee Picks

7.3 Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Outlet
Top Zigbee PickProven mesh network eliminates single points of failure
7.1 Sinopé Smart Outlet
Zigbee Runner UpThe only device on the list with energy monitoring

What are Smart In-Wall Outlets?

Smart outlets, also known as smart receptacles, are electrical outlets that can be controlled remotely through a smartphone, tablet, or voice commands via a smart home hub or voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. 

They typically have built-in Wi-Fi or other wireless communication protocols, such as Zigbee or Z-Wave, enabling them to connect to your home's smart network. They can be used to automate various devices in your home, like lamps, fans, or any plugged-in appliance, allowing you to set schedules, create personalized scenes, and control them remotely. 

Examples of smart in-wall outlets include Kasa Smart Plug KP200, Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi Outlet (D215R-2RW), and UltraPro In-Wall Smart Outlet.

Are there any Matter or Thread-based smart in-wall outlets?

Currently, there are no Matter or Thread-based smart in-wall outlets available in the market. So, you would need to use a Thread-enabled smart plug like the Eve Smart Plug to gain smart control over your existing outlets. 

As the popularity of Thread and the Matter standard is on the rise, more devices supporting these technologies will be made available in the future.

Considerations when choosing a smart in-wall outlet

Here are some of the things I considered when selecting a smart receptacle for my home.

Number of Outlets you can Smart Control

While most smart receptacles allow for two devices to be plugged in, not all of them allow smart control over both outlets.

My top pick, the Kasa Smart Plug KP200, supports both while the UltraPro only provides one smart outlet and one “always on” (AKA dumb!) outlet.

Communication Protocol & Hub Compatability

When choosing a smart in-wall outlet, the communication protocol is a key consideration. There are three main protocols: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Z-Wave. 

Wi-Fi outlets generally don't require a hub and connect directly to your home network, providing seamless integration with smartphone apps and voice assistants. Zigbee and Z-Wave outlets typically need a hub or gateway to connect and interact with your smart home ecosystem.

It’s also important to consider if you plan on using this with a voice assistant such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri, as not all smart outlets work with all voice assistants.

For example, the Kasa Smart Plug KP200 works with Alexa, and Google Assistant but not Siri.

Energy Monitoring Capabilities

Opting for a smart in-wall outlet with energy monitoring features can provide valuable insights into your home's electricity usage. 

These outlets, such as the Sinopé Smart Outlet, can help homeowners save energy and money in the long term by providing real-time data and usage patterns.

Circuit Rating / Breaker Size

The amperage rating of an outlet determines the maximum electrical current it can safely handle. Most residential outlets are rated for 15 or 20 amps. It's crucial to choose a smart in-wall outlet that matches the amperage of the existing wiring and circuit breaker in your home to prevent overloading and potential electrical hazards.

All of the smart outlets on this list are designed for 15-amp circuits. This is typically suitable for general household use, such as lighting, small appliances, and electronics. 

A 20-amp outlet, on the other hand, can handle higher loads and is commonly found in kitchens, laundry rooms, or garages, where more powerful appliances are used. 

I was only able to find one 20-amp smart outlet available which is the Legrand Radiant Smart Outlet with Netatmo. However, the product doesn’t have great reviews so I cannot recommend it.

Also, it's worth noting that all smart outlets generally require a neutral wire.

Electrical Box Depths

Smart in-wall outlets may require deeper electrical boxes due to their larger size and additional components. 

Before purchasing a smart outlet, compare its depth requirements with your existing electrical boxes. 

If the boxes aren't deep enough, you may need to replace them or use box extenders.

Safety Features and Tamper Resistance

Safety is a top priority when selecting smart in-wall outlets, particularly if you have children in your home. 

Tamper-resistant outlets are designed with built-in safety mechanisms, such as spring-loaded shutters, which only open when equal pressure is applied simultaneously to both slots. 

This helps prevent children from inserting objects like paperclips or keys into a single slot, reducing the risk of electrical shock and accidents.

One example of a smart in-wall outlet with tamper-resistant features is the Leviton Decora Smart Wi-Fi 15A Outlet.

Safety Certification

When choosing a smart in-wall outlet, you should consider safety certifications from recognized organizations like UL, ETL, FCC, and CE (In Europe). 

These certifications ensure the product meets industry safety standards, providing peace of mind and confidence in the outlet's safety, quality, and performance, while reducing the risk of electrical hazards.

I personally wouldn’t have an outlet installed without the necessary certifications as it’s just not worth the risk.

Professional Installation by a Licenced Electrician

While some smart in-wall outlets can be installed by a knowledgeable DIY enthusiast, I highly recommended using a professional licensed electrician for installation. This ensures the outlet is installed correctly, safely, and in accordance with local electrical codes and regulations. 

Licensed electricians have the necessary training, experience, and expertise to handle any unexpected issues or complications that may arise during the installation process.

While this adds to the cost, it gives peace of mind knowing that your home's electrical system remains safe, and the smart outlet will function correctly.

Top Wi-Fi Picks

7.5
Wi-Fi Pick
Individual control of each outlet

This Kasa Smart WiFi in-wall outlet by TP-Link is tamper-resistant and allows users to individually control up to two connected devices using their smartphone or voice assistant

Specifications
  • Set schedules and timers for each device
  • Voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant
  • Tamper-resistant design

The Kasa Smart Plug KP200 has an easy installation process with its snap-on design and supports schedules and timers for each device, along with an away mode to improve home security. 

The device does not require a hub and is certified by ETL for safety standards. You can group smart devices together for unified control with the Kasa Smart app. 

The device works with a secured 2.4GHz wireless network, does not require a separate hub, and is compatible with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google.

An issue with the KP200, along with most other smart outlets, is the existing electrical box may not be deep enough, which can complicate the installation process. Additionally, weak Wi-Fi connectivity has been reported in some instances, causing limitations in effectively controlling connected devices.

Also, there can be issues with the faceplate's ability to stay in place on textured walls due to its snap-on design. A more secure, screw-based system might be better to solve this problem.

What I liked
  • Works with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT
  • No hub required
  • Easy installation and setup
  • Individual control of each outlet
  • Can turn off indicator lights
  • 15 Amp rating supports various appliances
  • Reliable and compatible with smart home setups
What I didn't like
  • The bulky design may require deeper electrical boxes for installation
  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal must be strong for optimal functionality
  • No Homekit / Siri Support
  • No 20A version is available for appliances requiring higher amperage
  • A neutral wire is required for installation
  • Some customers reported weak Wi-Fi connections
  • Faceplate issues with textured walls
  • Works primarily with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi systems
7.2
Apple Homekit Pick
Dual outlet receptacle with one smart controlled and the other “always on”

The Leviton Decora Smart Outlet (2nd Gen) can be controlled through the Leviton app, schedules, and voice control with Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant.

Specifications
  • Schedule lamps and connected devices to turn on/off at specific times or based on sunrise/sunset.
  • Auto-shutoff feature as a countdown timer to automatically turn items off after a pre-set time duration.
  • Home vs away mode to randomize your home’s lighting to improve home security

The Leviton Decora Smart Outlet (2nd Gen) has a number of nice features. The auto-shutoff feature acts as a countdown timer to automatically turn items off after a pre-set time duration

The vacation mode feature helps to give the illusion that your home is occupied when you’re away which can help deter intruders.

With its manual push-button on/off control, you can still use the outlet, when you’re internet or Wi-Fi is down. And with the scheduling feature, you can easily set up devices or appliances to turn on or off at specific times or even based on sunrise/sunset.

It requires a neutral wire and works with Apple HomeKit/Siri and Alexa.

There is some negative feedback on the product, mainly concerning difficulties with setting up the My Leviton App and the Homekit setup process. 

Some users find it frustrating to scan QR codes and locate devices during the setup. Moreover, a significant limitation includes only having one of the two sockets as smart, with the bottom one remaining always on. 

What I liked
  • No hub is required for easy setup and control
  • Scheduling, auto-shutoff, and vacation mode features
  • Voice control compatibility with HomeKit / Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant
  • Reliable and maintains time even when losing internet connection
  • Can turn on devices remotely
What I didn't like
  • Only the top plug is smart; the bottom plug is always on
  • Some reported a difficult setup with the My Leviton app
6.3
Tamper-resistant smart Wi-Fi outlet

The UltraPro Wi-Fi In-Wall Smart Receptacle is a versatile smart outlet that is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling convenient voice commands without requiring a hub

Specifications
  • 2.4GHz Wi-Fi compatible with the latest routers
  • Control lights, fans, and plug-in devices
    Two grounded tamper-resistant power sources
  • Screw terminals for easy connection of line, neutral, and ground wires

The UltraPro app, available on the Apple App Store and on Google Play, simplifies network connection and supports full customization based on times, location, and other factors. 

It features two tamper-resistant grounded power sources, one Wi-Fi-controlled outlet, and one always-on outlet. The white faceplate fits rocker-style wall plates for a modern appearance and screw terminals allow quick and confident connection of hot, neutral, and ground wires.

What I liked
  • Two grounded power sources (one Wi-Fi-controlled outlet and one always-on outlet)
  • The easy-to-use app is available on both Apple App Store and Google Play.
  • The tamper-resistant feature ensures safety for children and pets.
  • Voice command compatibility without needing a hub.
  • Scheduling and automations for full customization
What I didn't like
  • Rocker-style wallplates are not included.
  • No Siri Support
  • Only one outlet of the  two is actually smart
6.1
Budget Pick
Designed specifically for Alexa control

With the Amazon Basics Smart In-Wall Outlet, you can turn on/off multiple devices with the Alexa app

Specifications
  • Can be controlled by voice using Alexa-enabled devices
  • Allows for scheduling and routine automation
  • Two separate outlets for controlling multiple devices

The Amazon Basics Smart In-Wall Outlet offers users an easy and innovative way to control their devices throughout their homes. With its 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with Alexa-enabled devices, this in-wall outlet makes it possible to manage your devices through voice control and routine automation. 

Some points to note though. The large size of the outlet may not fit comfortably in all wall boxes, and it lacks side-wire connection options. Additionally, some people have reported connectivity problems, which may lead to the product being less responsive at times.

What I liked
  • Easy to install and set up with Alexa
  • Affordable smart home solution
  • Can control devices individually or in groups
  • No hub required for use
  • Works well for controlling lamps and decorative lights
What I didn't like
  • Some compatibility issues with older houses and outlet boxes
  • May not fit in standard single-gang boxes due to the size
  • No integration with Google Home or Homekit
  • Limited to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi networks
  • A neutral wire is required for installation
5.9
Ideal for plug-in lamps. Single Smart Outlet with the other always on

The GE myTouchSmart Wi-Fi Smart Outlet enables wireless control of plug-in lamps and small appliances.

Specifications
  • The top outlet remains on while the bottom outlet is Wi-Fi controlled
  • No hub is required and works with Alexa and Google Home Assistant
  • Set daily or weekly schedules

The GE myTouchSmart Wi-Fi Smart Outlet is a simple device that allows you to control your devices through voice commands or via your mobile device. 

The top outlet remains permanently on while the bottom outlet is Wi-Fi-controlled, and the outlet requires no hub to function. 

The product has a two-year limited warranty and is easy to install and use with its space-saving screw terminals. The UL-listed device is compatible with voice commands from Alexa and Google Home Assistant for hands-free control. 

Additional features include setting daily or weekly schedules, manual on/off control with a push-button, automatic adjustment based on local sunrise/sunset times, and a countdown timer feature.

Some users have reported difficulties when trying to connect the device to their Wi-Fi network, particularly those with dual-band routers. Despite being listed as compatible with Alexa and Google Home Assistant, several users have had issues with the receptacle not working well with Alexa.

What I liked
  • Easy installation and setup
  • Seamlessly works with Google Assistant
  • Convenient control of lamps and appliances
  • The app allows easy schedule customization
  • Offers remote on/off control via app or voice
  • UL listed
  • Supports daily or weekly schedules
  • Adjusts to local sunrise/sunset times
  • Countdown timer feature available
  • 2-year limited warranty
What I didn't like
  • The second outlet is always on and not controllable by Wi-Fi.
  • Some users experienced difficulty with the Wi-Fi connection
  • Does not work well with Alexa for some users
  • Clunky app and installation for some
5.5
Alexa & Google Assistant smart control of both outlets

The Geeni Smart Wall Outlet offers the ability to control anything from anywhere using your smartphone.

Specifications
  • Voice commands with Alexa and Google Assistant
  • Automate daily schedules so your wall outlets turn on/off automatically when you need them to.
  • Customize timers to conserve energy and only use the power you need.

With the Geeni Smart Wall Outlets, you can easily control devices remotely with your smartphone, or by using voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant. You can also automate daily schedules to have wall outlets automatically turn on/off according to your needs. The product is easy to install and is compatible with various smart home apps while offering the ability to control both outlets independently.

A few users have experienced installation challenges due to it being too large for specific electrical boxes, or poor screw quality hampering secure wire attachments.

What I liked
  • Easy to use and install
  • Compatible with smart voice hubs
  • Affordable alternative to more expensive brands
  • Works with Alexa and Google Home
  • Can control both plugs individually
  • No hub is required; connects to Wi-Fi
  • The app allows scheduling and timer functions
  • Can share access with multiple users
What I didn't like
  • Issues with provided screws during installation
  • Some users reported poor connectivity with multiple attempts needed for app connection
  • Requires manual reset after power outages
  • Difficult fit in some outlet boxes due to size
  • Non-UL listed (States it has ETL & FCC Certification)

Top Z-Wave Picks

7.4
Top Z-Wave Pick
In-wall installation with hardwired connections and neutral wire required

The Enbrighten Smart Receptacle allows you to control appliances or lamps via your Z-Wave hub

Specifications
  • Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant (needs a Z-Wave certified hub)
  • One outlet is always on for traditional use, the other is Z-Wave controlled
  • Tamper-resistant outlets prevent foreign objects from being inserted

The Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Smart Outlet is compatible with popular voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, easily integrating with your existing smart home ecosystem through a Z-Wave certified hub. 

The in-wall installation features two outlets one that provides traditional functionality and another that is Z-Wave controlled, allowing wireless scheduling and operation from mobile devices. 

With tamper-resistant outlets, this device is safe for use in homes with children and pets and is suitable for controlling various types of light sources and devices. 

Many users appreciate its easy installation, responsive performance, and compatibility with a range of smart home hubs.

Generally speaking, the device works well with multiple smart home hubs, such as Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat Elevation, and Wink.

Initial pairing with smart home hubs can be challenging and time-consuming for some users while others might be disappointed with the fact that only one of the two outlets is controllable, while the other remains a standard, non-controllable outlet.

What I liked
  • Easy installation
  • Aesthetically pleasing design
  • Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
  • One Z-Wave controlled outlet and one always-on outlet
  • Tamper-resistant outlets provide increased safety
  • Seamless integration with multiple Z-Wave certified hubs
  • Allows remote control via smartphone and voice commands
  • Customizable scheduling, alerts, and scenes
  • Increased Z-Wave range (150ft.)
What I didn't like
  • Only one socket is smart
  • No power consumption monitoring
  • Faceplate not interchangeable; white only
  • Can be challenging to pair with certain hubs
  • Does not include a faceplate or additional accessories in the package
6.6
Z-Wave Runner Up
Tamper-resistant design for safe use

The Bryant Z-Wave Smart Outlet allows the smart control of a single outlet via a compatible Z-Wave hub

Specifications
  • Remote controlled with Android and iOS mobile devices
  • Simple setup pairs with compatible Z-Wave Plus hubs
  • One Z-Wave controlled outlet (marked, bottom), one always hot pass-through outlet (top)

The Bryant Electric IDEVZ08W is a Z-Wave enabled tamper resistant receptacle that allows for control of a single (bottom) outlet along with one always-on. 

It's compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home via a hub, making it a highly versatile addition to your smart home ecosystem. Additionally, the outlet can be remotely controlled through Android and iOS mobile devices for ease of use. 

People have found it to seamlessly integrate with existing smart home systems, such as Home Assistant. This has allowed them to effectively connect their Z-Wave controller to previously incompatible outlets and devices.

The setup process for this smart outlet is quite simple, as it easily pairs with compatible Z-Wave Plus hubs. It features one Z-Wave-controlled outlet on the bottom–ideal for connecting your smart devices–while the top outlet remains on, providing versatility for your power needs. 

The tamper-resistant design ensures that users can confidently incorporate the outlet into their homes without risking any unwanted tampering. 

With a range of 150 feet, this outlet provides reliable connectivity for various room sizes and layouts.

What I liked
  • Works well with Home Assistant
  • Easy integration with a Z-Wave network
  • Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
  • Remote controlled with Android and iOS devices
  • Simple setup
  • Tamper-resistant design
What I didn't like
  • Requires neutral wire
  • Only bottom outlet is Z-Wave controlled
  • 150ft range might be limiting for some

Top Zigbee Picks

7.3
Top Zigbee Pick
Proven mesh network eliminates single points of failure

The Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Outlet provides one always-on outlet and one smart outlet.

Specifications
  • Dual Grounded Outlets
  • Remote and manual operation
  • Zigbee Certified

The Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Outlet is a high-quality receptacle that offers numerous features and benefits. This outlet comes with one Zigbee-controlled outlet and another always-on outlet, enabling remote and manual operation. 

The receptacle comes with a space-saving screw terminal and requires a neutral wire for installation. The device is Zigbee Certified and acts as a mesh network repeater for device-to-device interoperability. 

The Enbrighten Zigbee Smart Outlet Receptacle is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, through a compatible Zigbee hub. The product works well with various smart home systems, such as Hubitat, Amazon Echo 4, and the SmartThings Hub.

This product also comes with a 5-year limited warranty which is more that most on this list.

However, it's worth noting that some customers have reported challenges and drawbacks with this product. It does not work directly with the Philips Hue Zigbee hub. 

Users have also reported challenges with the installation due to the short ground screw while others were disappointed with the lack of energy monitoring features and having only one controllable outlet.

What I liked
  • Zigbee control of one outlet
  • Generally speaking, it is an easy installation
  • Compatible with various devices and hubs including SmartThings and Amazon Echo
  • Tamper-resistant outlets for safety
  • One always-on outlet
  • Manual control option with ON/OFF button
What I didn't like
  • Does not work with Philips Hue
  • Buzzing noise reported by some users
  • The large unit size makes installation challenging in some cases
  • Only one outlet is controllable
  • No energy monitoring
7.1
Zigbee Runner Up
The only device on the list with energy monitoring

Reduce power consumption and bills by turning off electronic devices and tracking energy usage with the Neviweb app

Specifications
  • Never forget small household appliances anymore, thanks to the ability to set a timer to turn off devices after a delay.
  • Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Neviweb, SmartThings, and Hubitat (hub required) for varied features.
  • Save energy and reduce electricity bills by controlling energy consumption and avoiding phantom power.

The Sinopé smart in-wall outlet allows you to control a wide variety of small appliances and decorative lights using your phone or voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, and Hubitat. 

You can set timers and schedules to turn off your devices, thereby reducing your energy consumption and avoiding phantom power. 

The Neviweb app and GT130 hub are required to use this product's exceptional features such as automations, scenes, geofencing, and energy reports. 

This device supports wall mount installation and connectivity protocol Zigbee. 

It is certified by CSA and UL and has a capacity of 15 Amps and a maximum power of 0.5 Horsepower. 

However, it is vital to note that some users encounter issues with the installation process, specifically related to the ground screw. The gap for the ground screw may not accommodate the proper wire size for all homes, necessitating adjustments to make it work correctly. 

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the Sinope Wall outlet does not recall its previous state following a power outage, which could pose inconveniences for some users. 

What I liked
  • Excellent ZigBee functionality and strong signal
  • Compatible with Google Assistant, SmartThings, and Amazon Alexa
  • Easy to install and configure
  • Ideal for controlling small appliances and decorative lights
  • Energy consumption monitoring
  • Real-time energy reports and savings with the Neviweb app and GT130 hub
What I didn't like
  • Ground screw gap too small for 12-gage wire
  • Ground screw requires modification
  • The outlet does not remember the last state after a power outage
  • A separate hub is required for full features and app control

My Experience

As I mentioned, I recently installed some smart outlets in my home theatre. I recorded a video for our Youtube channel, of the unboxing, installation, and setup process which you can check out below.

Other FAQs

What is the difference between a smart outlet and a smart plug

A smart outlet is a permanent fixture that replaces a standard electrical outlet and needs to be hardwired into your home's electrical system. 

On the other hand, a smart plug is a portable device that fits into an existing outlet and provides smart control for any plugged-in device. 

While both offer remote control and scheduling capabilities, smart in-wall outlets integrate seamlessly into your home's design, without any extra hardware sticking out of the wall. 

In contrast, smart plugs can be easily moved and installed without any wiring or electrical knowledge. 

Do smart in-wall outlets require a hub?

Smart in-wall outlets use different communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave. Wi-Fi outlets generally don't require a hub, while Zigbee and Z-Wave outlets generally do. 

If you already have a hub or gateway that supports Zigbee or Z-Wave, it may make sense to choose outlets that use these protocols as you’ll end up with a more reliable mesh network.

Conclusion

As you can see smart in-wall outlets offer a seamless way to integrate smart home automation into your home's design. They allow convenient control of plugged-in devices through your smartphone, voice assistant, or scheduled routines. 

My main recommended smart outlet is the Kasa Smart Plug KP200 while the Leviton DW15S-1BZ is also worth a look.

Citations

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Solved: No Power to Thermostat https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/no-power-to-thermostat/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/no-power-to-thermostat/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:18:32 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=35965---5695847a-45bf-44f8-adf9-e9434a0bfbf6 Are you struggling with no power to the thermostats in your home? Check out this guide on how to troubleshoot and fix the problem.

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Should you observe that the display on your thermostat isn't lit, or if it appears that your HVAC system isn't operating correctly, this could suggest a problem with a section of the power supply tasked with maintaining the functioning of the system components.

From dead batteries to tripped breakers, I outline the 8 steps to troubleshoot and fix this problem.

At SmartHomePerfected we always advise readers not to undertake any work they are not competent in performing and if in any doubt, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional.

thermostat 6
Depending on your thermostat model, you might have to press, tap or turn a dial to wake up the thermostat

1. Try Waking Up the Thermostat

The first and most obvious thing to do is check if the thermostat display powers up. 

Press a few buttons, or if you have a touchscreen: tap or swipe anywhere on the screen to see if you get a response. 

If the screen doesn’t come on, you should continue the diagnostic steps below. Alternatively, if you have just installed the thermostat, there may be problems with your initial setup.

If you have a Honeywell model, check out my guide on Honeywell thermostats that have a blank screen.

alkaline batteries
Most modern thermostats have batteries that from time to time need to be replaced

2. Check the Batteries

If the power supply isn’t a problem and the screen on your thermostat still won’t come on, chances are that the batteries have died (although some thermostats will have a low battery indicator before the screen completely dies off). 

Alternatively, if your thermostat is hardwired, it may be a temporary problem – maybe your thermostat is recharging, restarting, or performing a firmware update via Wi-Fi. 

With thermostats that depend on batteries, replacing them is very easy and the process is nearly identical to all brands and manufacturers. For example, with Honeywell thermostats, you only need to remove the faceplate and replace the batteries at the back of the panel – click here for details. For Nest thermostats, the process is more complex as it involves the C-Wire – click here for details.

The process of removing the faceplate might vary, so check your product’s user/installation manual for instructions.

thermostat 10
It's important that the thermostat cover is fully pressed on to the mounting plate

3. Ensure the Thermostat Panel is Completely Secured

The dead screen may be caused by the thermostat not being pressed in fully on the mounting plate – to the point where the contacts have become loose.

It's crucial that the panel is tightly secured to the mounting plate, as a loose connection can cause the screen to remain blank. Take a close look at your thermostat, and if necessary, detach the thermostat and reattach it by pressing the panel firmly into its designated position.

When the panel audibly clicks and is level with the mounting plate, you can be confident that it is properly installed.

Thermostat Wire Colors
Making sure the wires aren't loose or damaged is one of the most important steps

4. Check the Wiring

Your next step is to check the thermostat wiring, so make sure to disconnect power to the entire HVAC system, remove the thermostat front panel, and check the wires and terminals.

To make sure the wiring is connected correctly, follow the steps below:

  1. Turn off the power
  2. Open the thermostat’s faceplate and physically examine the wires and terminals to ensure they are tightly connected. Lightly tug on each wire and see if they come out. You especially want to pay attention to the red wire with the R/Rc/Rh terminal. 
  3. If there are any loose connections, fix them and make sure the connections are secure and free of dust and dirt.
  4. Next, if your thermostat requires a C-wire, make sure the connection is intact and secure.
  5. If possible, check the thermostat wires at the other end, usually at the furnace control board, to see if they are loose or damaged. 
  6. Try reconnecting the wires and making sure they’re tight
  7. With everything reconnected, turn the power back on and see if the thermostat lights up.
voltage
Using a multimeter can help in troubleshooting the problem

5. Check the Voltage at the Thermostat Wires

If you reconnect the wires, but the thermostat still doesn’t power up, the thermostat cable might be damaged somewhere in between, or the furnace control board might be malfunctioning.

To confirm these, it’s best to check the voltage at the thermostat contacts with a multimeter. Here's how:

  1. First, turn off the power to the thermostat
  2. Then, remove the thermostat display from the wall
  3. Then turn the power back on to the thermostat
  4. After that, configure your multimeter to measure AC voltage
  5. Insert the red probe into the “R” terminal and the black one into the “C” terminal of the thermostat wiring. Be careful not to touch any of the exposed contacts or wiring when doing so.
  6. Check the voltage reading, it should be around 24-30V 

If the voltage is lower than this range, it could indicate a disconnection or malfunction with the furnace control board.

However, when measuring the voltage, exercise caution around the wires and remember to take the necessary safety precautions, these contacts are live and could electrocute you or damage the internal circuitry.

Mercury thermostat
Dirty components can stop a thermostat working

6. Check If the Thermostat is Clean

A dirty thermostat can also disrupt the power supply. As such, it’s a good idea to clean the interior of your thermostat from time to time.

Cleaning your thermostat will not only sort out the power problem but also help improve its efficiency.

While you can find different thermostat models and designs in the market, the process of opening them up and cleaning them is pretty much the same.

The only difference is usually the faceplate opening mechanisms – some snap off, others slide and the rest need to be unscrewed.

To Clean a Thermostat:

  1. Turn off the power
  2. Remove the cover or faceplate.
  3. Then, using a soft-bristled brush or a can of compressed air, clean between the switches and other components.
  4. To clean between the smaller crevices and contact points, use a thin piece of cloth or cotton buds to clean out dust and debris. *Make sure you don’t touch the interior with your fingers to avoid damage.
  5. After cleaning the interior, reattach the cover or faceplate and turn the power back on.

While cleaning thermostats is essential, certain models with a sealed enclosure may not allow for it.

For example, if you have a smart thermostat, specifically with batteries, you must avoid cleaning its interior. All you have to do is clear out any dust or debris on the exterior surfaces and wire terminals in the back.

Circuit Breaker
Checking the circuit breakers or safety switches can also help restore power to the thermostat

7. Check Power Supply

In most cases, a dead thermostat is because of your home's power supply, so check to see if the circuit breaker has tripped or if any fuses have blown.  

You can easily find out if the circuit breaker has tripped by checking your home's electrical panel board, wall outlets, and any safety switches assigned to your HVAC system.

Simply turn on or reset these switches to restore the power supply. 

However, if a fuse is blown, there’s no way around it, you will have to replace the blown fuse.

Also, when purchasing new fuses, make sure to stock up on a couple of extra fuses so you’re always prepared.

Possible Causes for a Tripped Power Supply

In many cases, a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse is caused by a power surge.  Alternatively, the HVAC system might be incompatible with your power voltage such as when your thermostat needs 240V input and is connected to a 120V power supply. 

Beyond that, the problem may lie within the HVAC system itself. 

To protect the user, HVAC systems are built with safety switches and disconnects that work like circuit breakers. On top of that, certain components like air conditioners might be connected to GFCI-protected outlets that may trip on their own. 

So, if any of these switches have tripped, simply reset them to the “on” or “closed” position. If the problem persists even after turning the switch on, then it's best to get help from a professional.

Central Air
AC Units have a drain pump that can become clogged or malfunction

8. Check the Condensate Drain Pump

A float switch or drain pump is very common in systems with an A/C unit since these will help shut off the system to avoid water damage and possibly, drain out the excess water.

Water leakage is a major safety issue, so when the drain pipe is blocked, the float switches can shut down the HVAC system, without any prior warning.

Float Switch with a Drain Pipe

If your system has a float switch attached to a drain pipe, you can take out the float switch or end cap and try to unclog the drain pipe. 

Condensate Drain Pump

If you’ve got a condensate drain pump with a reservoir filled with water it might have switched off the HVAC system. Either the drain pump is not working or it’s not plugged into a wall outlet. 

These drain pumps are usually connected to a GFCI-protected outlet that will immediately open/disconnect the circuit as soon as it detects an earth fault or current leakage. Therefore, check for any signs of tripping in GFCI-protected switches and try resetting them if needed.

Also, if there’s water on the ground, make sure the power is off before cleaning it up.

Try cleaning the drain pump reservoir and making sure the outlet valves and vents are clear of any blockages. Then, check for pump operation and it works: try re-installing it to your HVAC system.

Final Step: Bypass the Thermostat

To figure out if the thermostat is indeed defective, you can perform a bypass to see if the blower, heating, or cooling equipment can turn on without the help of the thermostat. 

If any of these pieces of equipment can turn on during the bypass procedure, you can be certain that the fault lies within the thermostat. 

In that case, you can either replace it or get it repaired.

To bypass a thermostat:

  1. First, switch off the power to the thermostat and the HVAC system
  2. Then, open up the thermostat front panel and remove it from the wall mount
  3. Then, jump the R and G wires (you can also jump the R with W for the furnace or Y for the A/C)
  4. Switch the power back on and see if the blower, furnace, or AC you created the short connection with, starts up without any issues
  5. If so, you can try checking the other components of the HVAC system for good measure, but you can already tell the thermostat is defective.

If the equipment doesn't turn on, it might be an issue with that corresponding piece of equipment, so I recommend troubleshooting further or enlisting the help of a professional. 

Perhaps it’s Time to Replace the Thermostat?

If you find the thermostat to be at fault, it may be that your device is beyond repair and needs a firm replacement. 

So if you have been with the same thermostat for many years, it’s definitely time to go for an upgrade.

The Verdict

If your thermostat’s display is blank or there’s no power coming into your HVAC system, it is usually due to a tripped breaker or a safety switch.

However, there can also be more serious issues such as damaged wiring and a faulty thermostat, so I highly recommend going through the list of possible causes mentioned above and getting help from a professional if you’re not comfortable troubleshooting yourself. 

Sources

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What Thermostat Works with Google Home? https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/what-thermostat-works-with-google-home/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/what-thermostat-works-with-google-home/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:52:46 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=34155---fbb73895-78cd-4123-b866-40143dbfffd6 Command Google Assistant to control your heating or cooling on the go with a Google Home compatible smart thermostat!

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If you aim to enhance your smart home setup that features Google Home and Google Assistant, it's crucial to opt for a thermostat boasting excellent compatibility. A wide range of advanced smart thermostats are purposely built to perfectly sync with Google Home. However, the best pick definitely depends on certain variables like your particular HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system requirements, budget limitations, and preferred features.

To help you through the process, we’ve curated a list of the best Google Home-compatible thermostats available right now.

What Thermostat Works with Google Home?
9.4 Google
Top PickSelf-learner that pays for itself
9.2 Honeywell Home
Runner UpSmart thermostat on a budget
9.1 Ecobee
Unique smart temperature control with additional remote sensors
8.9 Vine Connected Corp.
Programming in detail
8.7 SASWELL
Budget PickGood compatibility with HVAC systems

Smart thermostats offer wireless control, exclusive monitoring of your home’s climate, and compatibility with a host of smart home hubs. Many smart thermostats can also be connected to additional sensors to create a more responsive HVAC system.

Smart thermostats are also better at managing energy consumption, and installing them can bring your utility bills down!

Why Choose a Google Home-Compatible Thermostat?

Many Google Home thermostats are fast learners. They observe your climate habits throughout the day and learn your schedules. Then they can use this data to better manage your HVAC systems, providing extra comfort while saving up on energy.  When you are not home, you can save energy and reduce costs in the long run. 

With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily link the thermostat to your Google smart hub and control it remotely by voice or smartphone app.  Some thermostats, like the Google Nest, also give you access to accurate energy reports and notifications. Using this data, you can estimate your monthly energy costs, compare results between different timeframes, and get a clear understanding of your energy usage.

Best Google Home Compatible Thermostats!

9.4
Top Pick
Self-learner that pays for itself

The Google Nest Thermostat is a versatile and energy-saving smart thermostat.

Top Features
  • Learns how to program itself based on your routine.
  • Saves energy by adapting to your routine (Google says that it reduces bill costs up to 15%).
  • Full remote control via voice or smartphone app.

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat’s stand-out feature is its self-learning capability. It learns your habits and schedule and programs functions and events by itself, automatically adjusting to suit your needs. 

It has advanced geofencing sensors, which detect when you’re home or not. In addition, it detects motion when you enter a room and will turn on its display automatically.

Installation

The thermostat is relatively easy to install. If you don't have a C-wire, the Power Adapter Kit might be a bit tricky, but you can get through it in a few hours.

Scheduling

Once installed, you have access to multiple presets so that you can create a daily schedule. Whether you want a higher or lower temperature at a specific time or on specific days, the Google Nest Learner Thermostat will adapt to your preferences covering all possible scenarios. Plus, its Wi-Fi connectivity ensures that you can control it from anywhere.

Mobile App

The dedicated smartphone app has many useful functions such as tracking energy usage, notifying you with suggestions on improving overall energy usage, and monitoring your HVAC’s systems status at all times.

What I liked
  • Saves energy (Energy Star certified).
  • Access to detailed reports on energy usage directly from the app (512MB storage).
  • Can work without a C-wire.
  • Elegant design and easy to navigate through settings.
  • Affordable price.
What I didn't like
  • The Nest Temperature Sensor must be purchased separately.
  • Not compatible with Apple HomeKit.
9.2
Runner Up
Smart thermostat on a budget

The Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Thermostat is an inexpensive and easy-to-use thermostat that's compatible with Google Home and Alexa.

Top Features
  • Supports programs for the entire week.
  • Can be controlled by voice or through the easy-to-use smartphone app.
  • Provides maintenance alerts such as air filter change etc, to your phone.

The Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Thermostat may look similar to a traditional thermostat, but it comes with way more smart and powerful features. Apart from being an affordable option,  this smart thermostat is easy to install and set up, making it accessible to everyone.

Extended compatibility

The Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Thermostat has a wide compatibility range. You can pair it with your Google Home smart hub, Amazon Alexa, Cortana, and more. Once connected, you have the option to use voice controls for a variety of features.

Smart Response Technology

The integrated Smart Response Technology quickly learns your schedule and adapts accordingly, providing you with the optimal temperature accurate up to 1о

With the 7-day programming function, you can easily set up the desired temperatures throughout the entire week by breaking them down into cycles. You don’t need to waste energy if you’re not at home.

Built-in Wi-Fi

Designed with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, the Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Thermostat is compatible with Google Home as well as other smart home hubs and virtual assistants. Once connected, you can control it remotely from any place.

The dedicated app makes it easy to monitor the temperature levels in your home and allows you to set up smart alerts and maintenance-related notifications.

What I liked
  • Compatible with various smart assistants.
  • Simple and fast installation.
  • Smart alerts and notifications.
  • Integrated Smart Response Technology.
What I didn't like
  • Requires a special C wire for installation.
  • Button control might seem dated, especially if you’re used to a touch screen.
9.1
Unique smart temperature control with additional remote sensors

The ecobee Smart Thermostat with Home Sensors is one of the more advanced thermostats, compatible with additional smart sensors for rooms, doors, and windows.

Top Features
  • Multiple zone support with remote smart sensors for different rooms, doors, and windows.
  • Excellent compatibility and integration with other smart home systems.
  • Stylish design with an easy-to-use touchscreen interface.

Integration with additional Smart Sensors

Place the smart sensors in different rooms and the overall temperature can be balanced and uniform throughout the entire house. You can get notified about unexpected entries thanks to the smart sensor for doors and windows, which also helps with security.

Compatibility

In terms of compatibility, the ecobee Smart Thermostat works seamlessly with Google Home, Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Samsung Smartthings, and IFTTT  along with other smart home systems and virtual voice assistants. The ecobee app has extended functionalities and allows you to closely monitor your HVAC system’s performance. It also offers detailed reports on energy usage and will warn you in case of disruptions or malfunctions.

Design & Installation

The Ecobee Smart Thermostat has an elegant design, with a high-end touch screen. The. The installation process is relatively simple. You can check compatibility beforehand, while ecobee support can also help you get through it. Ecobee also gives out a list of professionals.

The thermostat is a bit more expensive than others, but ecobee argues that you can save up to 23% energy in the long run, by which point the thermostat pays for itself.

The Vine thermostat is designed to support a wide range of scheduling options. You can program up to 8 periods per day for the entire week.

Top Features
  • 7-day scheduling with up to 8 periods per day.
  • Reasonably priced.
  • Easy to install and operate via touchscreen display; no batteries required.

To make adjustments, the temporary hold function comes in handy and allows you to alter settings between periods. This makes it a good choice if you want to create many different temperature cycles throughout the day. Plus, with energy-saving mode on you can save more than 20% of your normal heating and cooling costs.

The installation is quick and easy – you don’t need more than 30 minutes to get it up and running. Then you will be able to control it remotely from your Google Assistant, Alexa, and your laptop or phone through the Vine app.

8.7
Budget Pick
Good compatibility with HVAC systems

The Google Home-compatible thermostat manufactured by Saswell is compatible with all HVAC systems and supports 3 heating and 2 cooling options. It also works with 2 heating and 1 cooling heat pump, ventilators, humidifiers or dehumidifiers, and auxiliary heat.

Top Features
  • Large LCD and a nice touchscreen with a backlight.
  • Compatibility with multiple HVAC systems.
  • Child lock feature.

It can be installed in approximately 30 minutes and has a minimalistic design with a large LCD. The digital interface includes a child lock feature, so you don’t have to worry if kids are tempted to play with it.

The Saswell smart thermostat can be controlled from anywhere via the Saswell app, which is available for both iOS and Android users at no cost. Works great through voice activation when paired to Google Assistant as well as Amazon Alexa.

Comes at a very convenient price, which makes it a good choice.

The Best Google Home Compatible Thermostat Verdict!

Many smart thermostats in the market today are compatible with Google Home. Whether you’re looking for a high-end smart thermostat with top-rated features or a less sophisticated and relatively inexpensive model, you can be sure there are plenty of options on the market. Before you purchase a new one, make sure you know what kind of HVAC system and wiring you already have in your home.

9.4
Top Pick
Self-learner that pays for itself

The Google Nest Thermostat is a versatile and energy-saving smart thermostat.

Top Features
  • Learns how to program itself based on your routine.
  • Saves energy by adapting to your routine (Google says that it reduces bill costs up to 15%).
  • Full remote control via voice or smartphone app.

Sources

Google Home

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High-Velocity Air Conditioning Guide https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/high-velocity-air-conditioning/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/high-velocity-air-conditioning/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:29:22 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=36657---5c9b91fe-256f-450c-bfb3-0a0e5d84a25e All you need to know about high velocity HVAC systems

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Standard duct frameworks are often selected for heating and cooling purposes because they are reliable and economical. However, setting them up can be extensive, costly, and inconvenient if your estate isn't already equipped with one. If you're searching for a less disrupting alternative that operates effectively even in smaller spaces, it might be beneficial to explore the concept of a high-velocity air conditioning system.

What is a high-velocity HVAC?

High-velocity HVAC systems rely on specialized flexible tubes that come in smaller sizes than traditional air ducts and operate by moving the airflow at very high-speed rates. They deliver fast heating and cooling while remaining energy-efficient and highly performant. Less invasive and easy to install, high-velocity systems use advanced technologies to ensure ideal thermal comfort.

Working

High-velocity HVAC systems work similarly to conventional centralized forced-air systems with the biggest differences being in the size and material of the air ducts and the speed of air circulating through the system. 

Smaller and more flexible air ducts

By design, high-velocity HVAC systems use flexible mini ducts and small air vents. This allows the airflow to move at a higher speed through the ducts due to high pressure and, as a result, the rapid circulation of air will quickly adjust the room temperature as needed.

In addition, the high velocity of the system is produced directly at the air vents which means that ramifications or bends in the duct system will not influence the flow of the air.

Reduced Air Leakages

The well-designed mini ducts are perfectly insulated and can reduce air leakages by up to 5% compared to traditional forced-air systems. Furthermore, thanks to their small size, installation is far easier and also less invasive. 

Smaller Footstep

For homeowners considering retrofitting their HVAC system, choosing a high-velocity system may turn out to be very convenient. With smaller system components and mini ductwork, you will not only produce less damage to your house during the installation phase but also save additional space.

Difference in Air Handling from Conventional Forced-Air Systems

One of the major differences between high velocity air conditioning and conventional HVAC systems is the way the air is handled. 

Aspiration

Conventional forced-air systems blow air only when needed, while high-velocity air systems are continuously pumping air. This process is called aspiration, which constantly moves the air and keeps the room temperature at a constant value, as given by the thermostat. 

This can be very handy, especially when you’re not so keen on experiencing temperature fluctuations or a long response time.

Energy Efficiency

  Even though the air handler is constantly running, it will not drive energy costs higher. High-velocity systems are extremely energy-efficient, delivering fast cooling and warming, as well as eliminating cold and hot spots.

High-Velocity Air Conditioning vs Mini-Split

Cost

Mini-split air conditioning systems are typically more expensive to purchase than high-velocity systems. Even though mini-split systems rely only on outdoor and indoor units, thus completely eliminating the need for ductwork, the initial costs will still be higher. 

However, mini-split systems are most cost-effective in the long run thanks to their low energy consumption.

Efficiency

Mini-split systems have proved to be an efficient alternative to high-velocity or other conventional HVAC systems. With no ductwork required (excluding any potential air leakages), you could save up to 20% on your usual energy bill. 

On top of that, mini-split systems include advanced compressors that are specifically designed to save energy.

Zoning

If you are planning to set up multiple zones throughout your house, mini-split systems help you do that. For instance, you may want to set the temperature differently for each room. But note that in order to achieve this, you need to install multiple units as well – normally, one unit for each room.

Aesthetics

Compared to mini-split systems that require multiple units installed in different areas of your house, high-velocity systems can easily go unnoticed. Their components come in small sizes – for example, the air outlet vents can be discreetly mounted on the wall – which is a big plus. 

Noise

Unlike mini-split systems, high-velocity systems produce more sound when operating. This happens due to the air being constantly transferred through the vents and into your house at a high-speed rate. However, newer high-velocity systems include mufflers able to attenuate the noise and keep the ambiance comfortable.  

Benefits of High-Velocity HVAC Systems

Less invasive

The non-invasive nature of high-velocity HVAC systems is maybe one of the biggest advantages. It offers maximum efficiency without interfering with the appearance and design of your home. 

With no heavy ductwork or large air grilles, you don’t need to take down your walls or ceiling to install them. On the contrary, small and stylish air vents can easily be fitted into the walls of your house without many renovations.    

Faster

Another big advantage of high-velocity HVAC systems is that you will get the desired temperature faster than you think. This is highly preferable for those homeowners that are always on the go and need an HVAC system with a fast response rate. 

With the capability of quickly reaching the temperature set on the thermostat, high-velocity systems let you manage sudden temperature changes easily.

Easier Installation

Usually, installing a high-velocity HVAC system is quite easy with no need for major restoration or reconstruction compared to traditional central air systems. High-velocity systems include a series of flexible ducts, less than half the size of regular air ducts, which can be easily installed without taking up too much space. 

In addition to that, you can now replace those old metallic air grilles with small and discrete outlets that will fit perfectly in any corner.

Quieter than conventional low-velocity systems

High-velocity HVAC systems produce less noise than conventional low-velocity systems, keeping your home’s ambiance warm and relaxing. Even though air moves through at a higher speed, the dedicated ductwork system is very well sealed, resulting in quiet air distribution. However, if you sit right next to a vent you might still find it a bit noisy.

Drawbacks of High-Velocity HVAC Systems

Complications in Installation

High-velocity systems are a bit easier and less expensive to install because major changes in the building’s inner structure are not needed. However, since the inner side of the walls is not considered while installation, some complications can also appear.

 Since they can be installed outside walls, electricians might not know the internal environment in the walls and might need to readjust continuously during installation. However, the overall process will still be less invasive than installing conventional low-velocity systems.

Air always moving

Air constantly being moved around at a fast rate can be distracting for some people, even causing discomfort. Especially when sitting close to the vents, you can feel the airstream coming out with quite some force. This can be easily avoided by placing the vents out of sight and away from dining, sitting, or sleeping areas.

Noisier Reduction in High-Velocity Systems

Many influencing factors make a high-velocity HVAC system noisy. However, these systems are designed and built to absorb and attenuate sound more than other traditional air conditioning systems.

Insulated Tubes

High-velocity systems are equipped with insulated flexible tubes that can absorb sounds and vibrations. Multiple layers of insulation are added for the purpose of attenuating shocks and vibrations caused by the constantly moving high-velocity air through the system. 

Additional Layers

Depending on your home’s architecture, you can opt for additional layers of sound-attenuating insulation for any section that may need extra sound absorption.

Vent Capacity

Noise can also be generated by insufficient air vents. For example, if you install multiple small air vents inside a room, you can get a smoother airflow as the air will be distributed evenly from various points. 

Also, any objects that might block the outlets from releasing air can influence the general well-functioning of the system.

The Verdict

Whether you are building a new construction or just want to revamp an old custom house, having a reliable and efficient heating and cooling system is essential. Should you go with high-velocity systems or mini-split systems? Regardless of your choice, make sure you carefully evaluate all concerning factors and plan out the entire process with a professional HVAC technician.

Sources

ACWholesalers

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Guide to Honeywell Thermostat Models https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-models/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/honeywell-thermostat-models/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:29:18 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=6489---94e84185-248c-4fcb-bb6d-72d127cb1222 With such a large range of Honeywell thermostat models, we break them down into categories to make it easier to understand the differences between them.

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Choosing a thermostat from Honeywell's wide range can seem overwhelming, but don't worry. We have organised their offerings based on the distinct characteristics of each model to ease your selection journey. This categorization method enables you to grasp the disparities among different models, thereby streamlining your decision-making process!

We cover all model types, from the latest smart thermostats to the older manual switches. Let's dive in!

Honeywell Smart Touchscreen Thermostat Models

Featuring a stylish design, the Lyric 5 smart thermostat is fully compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home kit, Google Assistant, and IFTTT.

Top Features
  • Geofencing technology
  • Intelligent comfort controls
  • Custom fan settings

For efficient operation, the thermostat uses geofencing technology for location-based temperature control. 

When your connected smart device such as a mobile phone is close to your home, the thermostat turns on the heating or cooling system. When you leave your home, the thermostat switches off the system. However, this is not all the smart thermostat's automation offers. Using intelligent controls, the thermostat automatically determines your home’s heating or cooling needs for maximum comfort. 

An adaptive recovery technology on the other end determines how long it takes to achieve the right temperature at the right time and automatically runs your system to get the ideal temperature. To make it easier for you to operate it, this app-controlled thermostat features a single app you can control from anywhere on your smartphone or tablet.

The Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Smart Color thermostat features a stylish design that matches the décor and aesthetics of your home.

Top Features
  • Bright, easy-to-read touchscreen
  • Energy STAR certified
  • Programmable schedule

This smart thermostat features a simple yet, very useful design. The Energy STAR certified smart thermostat is comprehensively designed to allow you to control the temperature, schedule, and display color.  

Additionally, using the smart thermostat, you can track indoor/outdoor temperature and humidity. Integrating a smart response technology, the Alexa and Google Home friendly thermostat learns your favorite temperature and scheduling to easily adapt the right parameters. Its full color display on the other end enhances its style whilst allowing you to easily track the changes. 

The Honeywell Home T9 smart thermostat is built with multi-room sensors that detect when people are in and focus on comfort in that particular room.

Top Features
  • Smart multi room sensors
  • Advanced motion detection
  • Monthly Energy Reports

The battery-powered smart room sensors use a unique technology to cover a radius of up to 200 feet. 

Furthermore, the T9 smart thermostat features an energy-saving Auto Hoe/Away Scheduling design. The Auto Home/Away Scheduling design allows you to adjust the thermostat from anywhere using your smartphone. With this design, you can control the climate in your home no matter where you are, thus, allowing you to save up significantly on your electric bills. 

The smart response and alerts on the other end intelligently learn your home cooling and heating patterns to help deliver the right temperatures at all times. The smart response alerts share filters and temperature signals too. Additionally, the T9 smart thermostat features a simple DIY installation design. The included power adapter instead of the C-wire makes it easy to install the thermostat in most homes.

Honeywell Digital Programmable Thermostat Models

Top Features
  • 7-day programming
  • Backlit display
  • Vacation Hold

Featuring 7-day programming, the RTH8500D Honeywell thermostat allows you to separate your programming for each day.  A smart response technology on the other end automatically adjusts pre-heating and cooling settings to ensure you are comfortable at the programmed times. 

The backlit display makes it easy to read and set up the parameters on the thermostat, even if you are in a dimly lit room or hallway. The display features a straightforward design to make it easier and quicker to adjust the controls. Additionally, a filter change reminder is integrated into the thermostat to keep your heating and cooling system at peak performance. 

Top Features
  • Extensive compatibility
  • Highly rated Total Connect Comfort App
  • Customizable climate control

The Honeywell 7-Day Programmable thermostat is run by a highly rated Total Connect Comfort app. Using this app, you can remotely view and adjust the temperature of your home. Additionally, with this app, you will enjoy features such as the temporary and permanent hold, local weather information, and the ability to control the cooling/heating system and fan. 

Furthermore, the app features a smart alert function that signals to you the temperature changes and even the loss of connection to the network. Using the customizable climate control, you will enjoy up to 7 days of programming and up to 4 program periods per day to keep you comfortable. 

Its smart response technology learns your schedule to ensure you enjoy the coziest temperatures at all times whilst also saving your energy bills. Designed with extensive heating and cooling system compatibility, you can use this thermostat on a wide selection of models. Its smart design on the other end allows you to easily connect it to your home’s existing Wifi connection.

Top Features
  • Large backlit display
  • Short cycle protection
  • 5-2 day or 1-week programming

The Honeywell Home 5-2 Day Smart Programming thermostat allows you to easily schedule your system to meet your indoor climate needs for the week, weekdays, or weekends. The smart response learning adopts your preferred heating and cooling patterns to deliver precise and ideal temperatures for optimum comfort. 

Furthermore, the thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature from anywhere you are thus, allowing you to save significantly on electric bills. In the case of power outages, the thermostat’s memory function saves all the settings and programming so you don’t start from scratch. Its filter change reminder retains the operation of your heating and cooling system at optimal performance.  

A large backlit display shows the current room climate and setpoint temperature simultaneously. Furthermore, the thermostat shares filter change and low battery reminders to ensure it functions fully at all times. On the screen, you can also view time in the 12 or 24-hour time format whilst the real time clock function automatically adjusts for daylight saving time.

Honeywell Digital Non-Programmable Models

Top Features
  • One-touch temperature controls
  • Switchable fan control
  • Built-in compressor protection

The push button controls of the Honeywell Home Non-Programmable Digital thermostat makes it easy to operate it. The digital backlit display on the other end makes it easy to view and read both current and set temperature readings, even in the dark. 

Furthermore, the one-touch control thermostat is designed with a separate switchable fan control – both automatic or continuous fan. However, these Honeywell thermostat models are not only designed to control your home’s climate. Its built-in compressor protection helps to retain the longevity of your cooling and heating system too. 

Whilst the digital thermostat offers great functions and features, it still features a compact design; allowing you to fix it anywhere in your home. The thermostat measures 3 inches high by 5 inches wide by 1.25 inches deep. Yet, when it comes to the installation, it is advised to get a professional technician to assist with the somewhat complicated wiring.

Top Features
  • Auto-change alert
  • Backlit LCD screen
  • +/- 1° F temperature control

Whilst the Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat is not programmable, it still offers a wide selection of customizable functions. Fitted with a large backlit display, the digital screen makes it easy to read the temperatures. The thermostat is fitted with a push button +/- Fahrenheit temperature controls which makes it easy for you to set the desired temperatures. 

On the other side of the thermostat, you can access the menu through the touch screen digital screen. Furthermore, on the screen, you will be able to simultaneously view the current temperature and fan settings. Even though the thermostat is non-programmable, its memory function cones to the rescue in case of power outages – so when you restart the thermostat, you will still enjoy your set parameters. 

Additionally, the non-programmable digital thermostat integrates sensors to facilitate automatic temperature changes from heating to cooling. Additionally, the non-programmable digital thermostat includes change reminders for when the power is low and batteries need changing.

Honeywell Line Voltage / Baseboard Heater Thermostat Models

Top Features
  • 5-2 Day Programming
  • 3.5KW power rating at 240V
  • 120-240V headboard compatibility

Integrating a 100% silent operation, the Honeywell Home 5-2 Day Programmable Electric Heat Thermostat can be comfortably fitted anywhere in the house.  These Honeywell thermostat models are designed with a TRIAC switching to deliver extraordinary accuracy. 

The TRIAC switching design offers balanced temperature controls that eliminate glitches and swings – leaving you comfortable even at lower setpoints for energy saving.  The thermostat features a 5-2 day programming to easily separate programming for the weekdays and weekends – 4-time periods per day, pre-programmed or personalized schedules, and selectable 12 to 24-hour format. 

Its backlit display makes it easy to read the temperature values whilst the front panel features instructions on the inside to enable quick programming. Using this thermostat, you will also enjoy battery-free backups so you don’t have to reprogram your settings every time you experience power outages. Designed for electric heating systems only, the thermostat is compatible with electric baseboards, convectors, and fan forced heaters.

Top Features
  • Up to 5.28KW controlling
  • Dial-type mechanical control
  • 2- or 4- wire non-polarized connection

Designed for your home heating system, the Honeywell Home CT410B Manual 4 Wire Premium Baseboard/Line Volt thermostat is easy to install and compatible with 120, 240, and 227 vac baseboard systems. Yet, this is not all the thermostat offers.  The thermostat features an impressive strength that holds up to 5280 watts.

Integrating a 2 to 4 wire non-polarized connection, the heating thermostat is extremely versatile – you can use it to replace any two-wire or four wire line voltage wall-mounted electric heating thermostat. To further complement temperature control and regulation, the manual thermostat features a dual diaphragm. Yet, you shouldn't let these sophisticated features intimidate you – thanks to its super simple design, the manual thermostat is very easy to use and operate. 

Furthermore, thanks to its extensive compatibility, the thermostat works great with electric baseboards, convectors, and fan forced heaters of between 120 and 240 volts. Whilst the manual thermostat doesn’t feature a stylish screen, its manual dials make it easy to control all the key settings.   

Honeywell Analog Thermostat Models

Top Features
  • Clicks at every 2-degree change
  • Clear analog scale
  • Accurate temperature control of +/-1° F

The large, visible details of the Honeywell Home The Round Heat Only Manual Thermostat makes it easy to read and adjust the settings – simply turn the dial to the desired temperature settings to enjoy the interior climate you want. Its white analog design gives it a retro style to match the décor and aesthetics of any home. 

Whilst these Honeywell thermostat models don't feature the smart and sophisticated functions enjoyed from smart units, they integrate an ingenious design that accentuates their functionality. The thermostats are designed with a readily readable scale to make temperature settings precise and easy. 

Their large, raised markings and audible clicks at every 2-degree change mean that you can visibly see and audibly hear the change. Furthermore, thanks to the strong analog construction, the manual thermostat guarantees long lasting durability. Thanks to its corded electric power source, you don’t have to worry about changing batteries either.

Top Features
  • Precise temperature control
  • Integrated thermometer
  • Used with 750 millivolt heating systems.

If you are looking for simple and manual Honeywell thermostat models – the Honeywell Home CT53K1006/E1 CT53K Non-Programmable thermostat is a perfect choice. This manual thermostat features a simplistic design to make it easy to use and adjust the temperatures for the ideal interior climate. 

Yet, the thermostat is not only built with precision temperature controls, it also features an integrated thermometer. The integrated thermometer complements precision temperature controlling and selecting the most ideal temperatures. Fitted with quiet switching functions, you can fit the thermostat anywhere in the house. 

Additionally, its compact build and simple interface makes it easy to mount anywhere. Furthermore, the thermostat is compatible with a 750 millivolt heating system such as a floor fireplace and wall furnace system, however, this manual thermostat doesn’t work with cooling systems. To guarantee maximum safety, unlike most manual thermostats, this manual thermostat is mercury-free.

Honeywell Thermostat Older Models

Top Features
  • Bimetal temperature sensor
  • Decorative back plate
  • Snap-action switch

The Honeywell Home CT30A1005 Standard Manual Economy Thermostat is fitted with low voltage controls to make it perfect for heating systems – its manual design eliminates the need for unnecessary programming – simply set the desired temperature and turn off the thermostat when not in use. 

In fact, the manual thermostat is compatible with a host of heating systems including hot water, warm air furnace, 24 V and 750mV floor/wall furnace, and volt gas fireplaces. A snap action switch on the other end makes it easier to operate the thermostat with heating systems. 

Integrating a temperature sensor, the thermostat guarantees the utmost precision with every temperature control and change. The non-programmable manual thermostat is also very easy to install and mount on the wall without the need for leveling. To guarantee safe operation, the manual thermostat is also mercury-free,

Features to Consider

Wired vs Wireless

When choosing the best Honeywell thermostat models, you will come across wired and wireless units – it all depends on your preferences. For wired Honeywell thermostats, you will have to place it at an ideal position to ensure the electric cables don’t run out.

However, for a wireless Honeywell unit, you can place it anywhere in the home as it doesn’t depend on long electric cables. Instead, it uses its built-in receiver.

Programmable vs Non-Programmable

You should opt for a programmable unit if you want to set your ideal temperature parameters. Programmable Honeywell thermostat models automatically adjust their temperature in your home based on a pre-determined schedule.

For programmable thermostats, you have the option to choose a 7-day, 5-2 day, or 3-day schedule programming; allowing you to customize each day depending on the unit's capability. A non-programmable thermostat unit on the other end maintains the same temperature settings throughout the day.

WiFi / Smartphone App

If you want to enjoy more features and control of your thermostat, you want to go for a Wifi compatible one. The Wifi connection allows you to control the thermostat through the brand’s Total Connect Comfort App. A Wifi compatible thermostat means that you can connect the thermostat using your home’s existing wifi connection.

When connected to Wifi, you can still control the thermostat through the app using your smartphone from anywhere. This design doesn’t only enhance your convenience but also helps to cut down on energy costs.

Heating Systems Supported – Single Stage, Multi Stage, Heat Pump, Electric

Before you invest in a Honeywell thermostat, you want to ensure it is compatible with the system you want to use it for. Thus, you want to check your wiring to know what type of thermostat to go for.  For example, zoned heating systems work best with programmable or smart thermostats.

For a Wifi connected thermostats, you need a c-wire whilst programmable thermostats require low voltage wires. Alternatively, if you feel confused, you can consult an HVAC professional to assist.

Heat Only / Cool Only or Both

Honeywell thermostat models come with a choice of three common mechanisms, i.e., heating, cooling, or both. Typically, the majority of manual thermometers work with heating systems. 2 stage thermostats offer more features which allows them to cater to both cooling and heating.

You will notice that the more sophisticated you want your thermostat to control the heating and cooling, the more you will spend. Yet, even if you pick a heating or cooling thermostat, you want to make sure it is compatible with your home system.

Available C-Wire

A c-wire, also known as a common wire, is an extra wire used to provide a return path for 24V power for cooling and heating systems. A c-wire is especially important to have for a smart and wifi connected thermostat – you can find some thermostat models that don’t require c-wires.

However, for Honeywell thermostat models, c-wires are required on most Honeywell Wifi thermostat with the exception of the Smart Round thermostat.

Common Questions

Can Honeywell Thermostat Connect To Alexa?

Yes, you will find the best Honeywell thermostat models are compatible with Amazon Alexa. In fact, all Wifi connected and Smart thermostats are Amazon Alexa compatible. 

Furthermore, you can even use Amazon Alexa’s voice skills on the thermostat’s Total Comfort Connect App to voice command your thermostat from anywhere you are.

Can Honeywell Thermostat Connect To Google Home?

Similar to Amazon Alexa, you can find the best Honeywell thermostat models that are compatible with Google Assistant – all Wifi connected and smart thermostats are Amazon Alexa compatible. 

Just like Alexa, you can use Google Assistant with the thermostat’s Total Comfort Connect App to voice command your thermostat from anywhere you are.

Is Honeywell Thermostat Z Wave Compatible?

Yes, some Honeywell thermostat models are Z wave compatible – a wireless protocol used for smart home integrations. A good example of such thermostat models is the T6 Pro Z-Wave Thermostat.

You can always find out if a Honeywell thermostat is Z wave compatible by checking the features or specs.

Which Honeywell Thermostats Have A Smartphone App?

All smart and Wifi connected Honeywell thermostat models can use the smartphone.  You can use the smart Total Comfort Connect app or the Honeywell Home app depending on the thermostat. 

The Total Comfort Connect app is ideal for single zone and evohome Wifi thermostats. The Honeywell Home app on the other end works for T6, T6R, T6R-HW, and smart thermostats.

The Verdict

There are a wide range of Honeywell thermostat models to choose from. With such a selection, you are sure to find the best unit for your home, no matter the requirement. The best part about these thermostats is their long lasting reliability and stylish design. 

Our overall top pick is the Honeywell Home Lyric T5 Smart Thermostat Thermostat. If you are looking for a standard manual thermostat, our favorite pick is the Honeywell Home Wi-Fi Smart Color Thermostat Thermostat.

Featuring a stylish design, the Lyric 5 smart thermostat is fully compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home kit, Google Assistant, and IFTTT.

Top Features
  • Geofencing technology
  • Intelligent comfort controls
  • Custom fan settings

Sources

www.honeywellhome.com

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SwitchBot Thermometer Review 2024: Unveiling the Features and Performance of the Latest Model https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/switchbot-thermometer/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/switchbot-thermometer/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:22:02 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=29574---67f11850-46a8-4804-a157-a9be3e13c48d If you want to enjoy more freedom in measuring temperature and humidity in your smart home system, check out this SwitchBot meter review.

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Sensors play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of your smart home setup, as they enable it to react precisely to fluctuations in the environment. In essence, the SwitchBot Meter's function is to instigate your system to react when the temperature or humidity levels exceed the predetermined safe limits.

This is achieved through the creation of scenes / routines, where you can connect different devices to work together in tandem.

Examples of what can be configured include …

  • Triggering your non-smart dehumidifier to turn on, if the humidity gets too high.
  • Sending a notification if your garage or shed gets too cold which may result in burst pipes.
  • Automatically activating an air conditioner to come on in your baby's room, if the temperature gets too warm.

The possibilities are endless!

Temperature and Humidity Tracking

Below are screenshots from my SwitchBot Meter; over 3 days and 30 days. I have installed 3 monitors; one in my office, one in the attic and one in the shed. I primarily use them to monitor and manage humidity as I live in a wet climate.

Using the SwitchBot hygrometer and thermometer is pretty simple. The device comes pre-fixed with a 3M metal strip and magnetic back so you can mount it anywhere in your home or office.

Top Features
  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 24/7 Swiss-made sensors
  • Remote monitoring and condition alert

When used with the SwitchBot hub, the SwitchBot Thermometer & Hygrometer connects effortlessly to a 2.4 GHZ Wi-Fi network and allows you to backtrack data recorded up to 36 days prior. Furthermore, with the Wi-Fi connection, you will enjoy 24/7 real time monitoring and alerts. Finally, the SwitchBot hub is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, and IFTTT.

SwitchBot Thermometer & Hygrometer Features

Size — It's tiny!

The SwitchBot meter features an ultra-portable and small size design—in both sizing dimensions and weight. It measures 4.33 inches long by 1.18 inches wide and 3.35 inches high and weighs only 2.82 ounces. This allows you to comfortably mount the meter anywhere in your home or office.

Thermometer — Celsius or Fahrenheit

You can track the temperature on the clearly lit meter’s LED screen. The screen allows you to view the temperature in two different values. You can opt to use the Celsius or Fahrenheit values—simply choose the value you want on the screen. You can also do the same on the SwitchBot app.

20210319 160654 1

Hygrometer—Measure Relative Humidity

As a hygrometer, the SwitchBot meter measures relative humidity. Similarly, you can readily track the humidity on the LED screen—the temperature reading is positioned at the top whilst humidity is at the bottom. Furthermore, you can track humidity through the SwitchBot app when it is connected to the SwitchBot hub.

History Log—36 Days on Device—Unlimited Cloud

The SwitchBot thermometer & hygrometer is designed to store the most recent data from up to 36 days prior. So, if you want to backtrack your data, you can easily access the information on the app. The data can even be fetched via Bluetooth for local backup. Once the data is uploaded on the app the first time you access it on the app, it is then stored on your app.

On the app, you will get a concise graph with daily/weekly/monthly filters for tracking the change of the temperature and humidity in the last 36 days. You can even export the data you want from the app to CSV for use.

Smartphone App

The smartphone app for the SwitchBot thermometer & hygrometer offers a host of data. In fact, it is the smartphone app that allows you to backtrack data from the most recent 36 days. Furthermore, you can do more with the app when the meter is connected to a smart home hub.

The app allows you to remotely monitor the temperature and humidity where you have set up the SwitchBot meter. To do so, simply open the SwitchBot app and add the meter of choice by pressing and holding the button.

Bluetooth

As mentioned above, the SwitchBot meter is compatible with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The meter uses low energy Bluetooth (BLE) connectivity which allows you to save significantly on energy, especially since the meter is battery-powered.

Therefore, it easily shares alerts via Bluetooth when you are nearby. The Bluetooth range covers a 394 feet range when in the line of sight under ideal conditions with no obstructions.

Simple Setup With a Magnetic 3M Fastener

The SwitchBot meter features a simple and easy-to-use setup taking just a few seconds. The SwitchBot meter features a wall mountable design and even comes pre-fixed with a magnetic back to make it easy to quickly and securely mount it anywhere.

The magnetic back is designed in the form of an add-on sticker. The meter also features an upright design to allow for tabletop use if you don’t want to stick it to your walls.

Data Exports

The meter’s best feature is its historical data function, allowing you to backtrack the meter’s data to the most recent 36 days. However, the meter doesn’t only just store the data plainly.

It allows you to do more with it, including exporting it. On its app, you can view the data however it suits you whether it’s through numbers or graphs by viewing it daily, weekly, or monthly. You can even transfer the data to a CSV.

Remote Monitoring & Alerts With the Hub

The SwitchBot thermometer & hygrometer integrates with the Smart SwitchBot Hub Plus/Mini. So, if you want to enjoy real-time temperature and humidity monitoring, you can simply invest in a smart hub.

The SwitchBot hub is enabled to work with Amazon Echo devices, Google Home devices, IFTTT devices, or Apple HomePod. Through the integration, you can voice control and even set up scenarios you want through the connection so the devices can work together.

Battery-Powered

To ensure that you enjoy consistent monitoring, the SwitchBot thermometer is battery-powered, allowing you to easily set it up anywhere in your home or office. Typically, a SwitchBot meter requires 2xAAA batteries to operate.

The batteries generally last for about a year with regular usage before they need changing. The battery changing process is easy—simply open the back cover of the meter, take out the old batteries, insert new ones, and close the back cover.

Smart Home Automation With the Hub

As mentioned above, you can set up a smart home integration using the SwitchBot hub and meter. With smart home automation, you can perform a wide range of other functions and even set up scenes.

For example, if you have a pet reptile in your home, you can program the hub to turn on the AC if the meter indicates the temperature to be over 90 degrees. Additionally, with smart home automation, you can also integrate other processes in your home, for example, checking the temperature using voice control commands.

Wi-Fi Connectivity With the Hub

Whilst the SwitchBot thermometer uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity to communicate in short-range, it uses Wi-Fi for long range connectivity. You can wirelessly connect the SwitchBot meter with the SwitchBot smart hub.

The SwitchBot meter only supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can remotely monitor the temperature and humidity and even set up the scenes you want on your smart hub.

What I liked
  • It only takes a few seconds to set up thanks to its magnetic back
  • It offers two modes of connectivity—Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
  • It is compatible with SwitchBot smart hub—works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, and Apple Home
  • Portable size which makes it easy to set up anywhere
  • Built-in Swiss-made sensors ensure optimal accuracy
What I didn't like
  • The Bluetooth range is an issue—it doesn’t cover a large range
  • It takes time to sync data stored from the meter
  • You will need to separately invest in the smart hub
  • You need to connect to a hub for the meter to work wirelessly for remote monitoring and alerts
  • Some users have reported accuracy issues

SwitchBot Thermometer & Hygrometer – The Verdict

The SwitchBot meter enables you to enjoy fine grained temperature and humidity monitoring. Plus, its Bluetooth connectivity and integration with the smart hub extend its function so you can enjoy easy tracking even when you are not at home!

9.4
A smart home thermometer and hygrometer

Using the SwitchBot hygrometer and thermometer is pretty simple. The device comes pre-fixed with a 3M metal strip and magnetic back so you can mount it anywhere in your home or office.

Top Features
  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 24/7 Swiss-made sensors
  • Remote monitoring and condition alert

Sources

switch-bot.com

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Best Zigbee-Compatible Thermostats https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/best-zigbee-thermostat/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/best-zigbee-thermostat/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:05:36 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=34044---d6604135-5fce-4b26-9dfd-6e88a7f69a1e Looking for smart thermostats that are compatible with Zigbee and can be used with a variety of smart home hubs? Our comprehensive guide provides you with the best available.

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Think about the advantages that come from updating your home with the latest Zigbee compatible appliances, converting it into an automated, self-reliant sanctuary. Enhancing the connection between your thermostat and the Zigbee network can lead to a significant improvement in the performance and speed of your HVAC system. With a profound understanding of these devices' remarkable ability to extend your current Zigbee network, our expert team has intentionally selected these smart thermostats, ensuring a seamless transformation in your home management system.

What Thermostat Works with Google Home?
9.4 Lux
Top PickSupports geofencing
9.2 Zen
Runner UpBattery-powered thermostat with a nice display
9.0 Centralite Systems, Inc
Budget PickQuick installation
8.8 31cSnrcPFJL. SL500
Line Voltage PickHigh-voltage systems

Benefits of a Zigbee Thermostat

If you’ve got a Zigbee mesh, or a smart home hub like Samsung SmartThings that can connect to Zigbee, integrating your thermostat into the existing home network is a great idea. Once interconnected, your Zigbee thermostat can communicate with other smart home devices, making your entire home automation system more efficient and better tuned to your schedule. 

Once connected, you can control and monitor these thermostats using mobile apps, or through voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant.

Interconnected

These thermostats can also connect with additional sensors, either individually or through smart home hubs, to become more responsive. For example, multiple temperature sensors in different rooms can make climates more personalized. In addition, connecting with motion sensors can allow these thermostats to turn your HVAC components on when you enter, or just turn the display on so you know what the climate is in the room. No more time-consuming guesswork as you fiddle with the traditional remote control!

These thermostats also help minimize overall power consumption in your home by integrating your HVAC system with your daily routine.

Additionally, by pre-programming your customized settings, you extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment and also minimize your carbon footprint. 

A highly competent smart thermostat that fits well into any décor.

Top Features
  • Smooth integration with multiple smart home hubs through Zigbee 3.0.
  • Available in a range of colors; fits well in any décor.
  • Controllable via voice activation or smartphone app.

The KONOz Smart Hub Thermostat manufactured by Lux uses Zigbee 3.0 technology and easily connects to a wide range of smart home hubs. Thanks to the interchangeable Décor-Snap covers with fully paintable options, it allows businesses and domestic users full esthetic freedom. 

Battery-powered and easy to install, the KONOz smart thermostat supports 3 different modes – heating only, cooling only, or heating and cooling combined. 

Display & Interface

The display includes a front knob, which can be used to adjust the temperature, navigate through settings, and create your personalized heating and cooling schedules. 

In addition to the weekly scheduling options, the KONOz smart thermostat is compatible with conventional heating and cooling systems, residential heat pump systems, and electrical furnaces. 

Voice control

You can fully control it from anywhere by using voice-enabled devices supporting Amazon Alexa and/or Google Assistant, or through the free app available for both iOS and Android. It also supports geofencing, which makes it easy to adjust the temperature in your home based on your location. This means you will save energy while you’re away and reduce your overall utility costs. 

The KONOz thermostat is a Zigbee-compatible thermostat with  Google Home integration and a fairly good option that can be purchased at a reasonable price. 

What I liked
  • Saves energy (Energy Star certified).
  • Access to detailed reports on energy usage directly from the app (512MB storage).
  • Can work without a C-wire.
  • Elegant design and easy to navigate through settings.
  • Affordable price.
What I didn't like
  • The Nest Temperature Sensor must be purchased separately.
  • Not compatible with Apple HomeKit.
9.2
Runner Up
Battery-powered thermostat with a nice display

Simple to use and stylish smart thermostat compatible with Zigbee.

Top Features
  • The Zen HQ feature enables complex HVAC and lighting changes to be made via the cloud. Adjustments can be made every 15 minutes if needed.
  • Energy Star certified to reduce energy consumption by 19%.
  • Full voice activation via various virtual assistants.

The Zen Thermostat uses the Zigbee protocol to fully automate your HVAC system offering complete control within your home or business. It is compatible with Zigbee HA 1.2, SmartThings, SwannOne, and Securifi’s Almond+.  

Heating, cooling, and fan parameters can be easily adjusted via an ergonomic LED display. The display which is visible and large enough to view data fades to conserve battery power but can easily be woken up by touch.

Style & Finish 

The thermostat body is offered in a black or white finish, on a slimline, lightweight controller with a magnetic attachment to a wall mount. Zen offers its own dedicated HQ cloud, where numerous thermostat settings can be saved and easily controlled via the Android and iOS Zen applications.

With the online firmware updates, the system software can always stay up-to-date. 

What I liked
  • Compatible with various smart assistants.
  • Simple and fast installation.
  • Smart alerts and notifications.
  • Integrated Smart Response Technology.
What I didn't like
  • Requires a special C wire for installation.
  • Button control might seem dated, especially if you’re used to a touch screen.
9.0
Budget Pick
Quick installation

An affordable option, with less than 15 minutes’ installation time.

Top Features
  • Can easily be installed in less than 15 minutes.
  • Compatible with multiple Zigbee HA 1.2 platforms.
  • Easy to operate, the display includes soft controls.

The Centralite Pearl Thermostat comes in two colors (black and white), is easy to install, and has a simple interface, making it easy to use too.

This device includes a user-friendly touch-screen display. It allows you to define your own schedules and create different events, which can be paused or canceled through the Hold soft-touch button. 

If you want to control the thermostat remotely, you just need to connect it to your Zigbee HA 1.2-compatible smart home hub and you will be able to make any adjustments on the go.

Compatibility

Certified for Zigbee Home Automation 1.2, the Pearl thermostat is compatible with all Zigbee platforms as well as SmartThings, Spectrum, Cox, Time Warner Cable, and Vera. It also works with almost all residential HVAC systems and supports two stages of heating and two stages of cooling. 

The Pearl thermostat has an integrated temperature sensor that provides accurate temperature control. On top of this, you also have the option to add optional remote sensors such as humidity sensors, occupancy sensors, or simply more temperature sensors to cover different rooms.

What I liked
  • Equipped with a built-in power amplifier.
  • Detects temperatures as low as 0.1 degrees.
  • Supports optional remote home sensors.
What I didn't like
  • Might not work with some boilers.
  • Requires batteries.
8.8
Line Voltage Pick
High-voltage systems

The Stelpro KI Thermostat is simple yet smart, and can be integrated with a range of line voltage systems.

Top Features
  • Designed to work with conductors, fan heaters, and electric baseboards.
  • Can reduce energy use significantly.
  • Features two modes for economic use or enhanced comfort.

Unlike the other thermostats listed, the Stelpro KI Thermostat is the only one designed to work with high-voltage systems up to 4000W.

Energy Saving

With up to 30% energy-saving capabilities, it will significantly reduce the overall costs of your normal utility bills. It has been developed to use four different levels of heating power to help you achieve this. 

Another noteworthy feature is that, unlike other thermostats, Stelpro uses pulses to turn the heat on. No need to worry about unequal and inconsistent heating. 

Zigbee

Designed specifically for smart home systems, it uses the Zigbee protocol so you can easily integrate it into your existing Zigbee network and control it from a distance by using your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

The installation is fast and easy and usually does not require professional assistance. Also, batteries are not required as it connects directly to the main power source. You can forget about replacing batteries!

Different Modes

This thermostat features two different modes and allows you to easily switch between them. It covers anyone’s needs – whether you opt for the economic mode to save energy or go for more comfort, it has it all. 

Moreover, it can be purchased at a reasonable price and comes with a 3-year warranty.

What I liked
  • Excellent compatibility with high-voltage systems.
  • Can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.
  • Display with adjustable light.
  • No batteries are required.
  • 3-year warranty.
What I didn't like
  • The heating function cannot be turned off completely.
  • The display is a bit small.

The Best Zigbee Thermostats Verdict!

Zigbee is the go-to connectivity protocol after Wi-Fi, for most smart home devices, and with so many available options on the market, finding the most suitable Zigbee-compatible thermostat for your smart home may seem difficult at first. But that’s where we step in – showing you the best products that are worth looking into. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can rest assured there is a variety of good options to choose from.

A highly competent smart thermostat that fits well into any décor.

Top Features
  • Smooth integration with multiple smart home hubs through Zigbee 3.0.
  • Available in a range of colors; fits well in any décor.
  • Controllable via voice activation or smartphone app.

Sources

Pearl

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Best Smart Humidifiers https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/best-smart-humidifier/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/best-smart-humidifier/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:05:33 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=40247---9732cf84-229f-4060-ba81-cb6d61ff0f65 Smart humidifiers allow you to control the internal environment of your home wirelessly! Take a look at our Best Smart Humidifiers Guide and decide whether you’d like to make the addition to your home.

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Decreasing the moisture levels in your home can lead to a variety of issues including worsened allergies, heightened asthma symptoms, skin problems, chronic cough, as well as damage to your furniture and indoor plants. Consequently, it's advised to use smart humidifiers. These appliances can substantially improve the comfort and look of your indoor surroundings by increasing the level of humidity.

While tackling low humidity levels, smart humidifiers can also be integrated into your smart home system for voice control, remote control or to connect with other devices as part of scenes or routines.

What Thermostat Works with Google Home?
9.4 LEVOIT
Top PickLarge Tank Capacity
9.2 31INlBppFWL. SL500
Runner UpCompact and Portable Smart Humidifier
9.0 proscenic
High Capacity Smart Humidifier
8.5 HuPro
Ultra-Quiet Humidifier
8.4 41qQoq8JuUL. SL500
Premium Pick30 hours of continuous operation

Benefits of a Smart Humidifier

A smart humidifier is a wirelessly-controlled device that adds moisture to the air in a room to combat the dryness in the air. It automatically detects if the humidity in the air has fallen below the desired level and injects moisture into the air.

Having one in your home has several benefits. Here are some of them:

1. Wireless Control

Wireless control of your humidifier is a significant advantage. Using a smart device, you can easily optimize your home’s atmosphere for your comfort.

Even better, you do not have to risk over-humidifying your home and damaging important fixtures with moisture. Sensors in the unit will automatically shut it off once it reaches the desired humidity.

2. Helps with Health Issues

Smart humidifiers can help those with pre-existing health conditions such as allergies, cough, and asthma. Adding moisture to the air provides relief and counteracts the dryness responsible for these problems.

3. Skincare

Low humidity dries out the skin, lips, and other parts resulting in irritation and itching. Humidifiers relieve this and keep your skin and other body parts moist.

4. Indoor Climate Control

Other fixtures in your living space can also benefit from a more humid environment. For example, wooden furniture and houseplants can warp and wither in dry climates.

A smart humidifier creates a better indoor environment for your plants and wooden furniture, keeping them fresh and vibrant.

Best Smart Humidifiers

9.4
Top Pick
Large Tank Capacity

The Levoit Humidifier is a large-capacity humidifier capable of operating for more than two days without the need for refilling.

Top Features
  • It features a large 6L tank capacity that offers up to 60 hours of continuous operation.
  • It offers an essential oil diffuser to infuse scents into your home.
  • It features an integrated auto-humidity sensor.

The Levoit Smart S300 is an ultrasonic mist smart humidifier equipped with a large 6L tank. This humidifier is specifically designed to take on large spaces, as its large tank gives it fast humidifying capabilities and a reach of almost 500 square feet.

Product Connectivity

With its Wi-Fi capabilities, you can control the Levoit S300 remotely and integrate it into your smart home. In addition, the unit is compatible with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for voice control.

You can even set it up and control it from your phone via the dedicated V-sync app. On the app, you can set the optimal humidity, mist level, aromatherapy options, and more.

Product Design

The S300 features an elegant cubic design with a transparent tank on top. In addition, it has a 360-degree nozzle to spread moisture properly in all directions.

There is an LED touchscreen on the unit's base with four buttons for switching between the various operating modes. This screen can be powered down at night and replaced with a night light for better sleep.

Also, the Levoit Smart S300 automatically shuts down and alerts you if the water has run out in the tank. To refill the unit, you just have to take off its top and fill the tank back up with water.

What I liked
  • Saves energy (Energy Star certified).
  • Access to detailed reports on energy usage directly from the app (512MB storage).
  • Can work without a C-wire.
  • Elegant design and easy to navigate through settings.
  • Affordable price.
What I didn't like
  • The Nest Temperature Sensor must be purchased separately.
  • Not compatible with Apple HomeKit.

Tech Specs

Tank Capacity: 6L
Max. Coverage Area: 500 sq ft.
Max. Operating Time: 60 hours per fill
Connectivity: App via Wi-Fi | Amazon Alexa and Google Home
9.2
Runner Up
Compact and Portable Smart Humidifier

The Govee Smart Humidifier is a compact, portable smart humidifier that you can easily take with you on the go.

Top Features
  • It features eight different mist output levels that are adjustable through the app.
  • Smart home integration and app control are available.
  • It offers a portable and compact build for easy transportation.

The Govee Smart Humidifier is a great humidifier for those constantly on the move. Thanks to its compact and portable build, you can easily move it from room to room as you need.

Product Connectivity

To make control more straightforward, you can control it from the app. Using the app, you can control the mist levels in your home to 8 different levels, set a timer, and access various aromatherapy options.

You can connect the app to the humidifier using either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. You can also use smart assistants like Google Home.

Product Design

The Govee Smart Humidifier features a minimalistic cylindrical design. The 3L tank sits at the top with a 360-degree nozzle spraying mist in a grid of 160 square feet.

There is no LCD panel on the humidifier. The control panel only has a single button for turning the humidifier on and off.

The Govee Smart Humidifier features a top-fill tank for easy refilling. It also has a slide-out aromatherapy tray to replenish the scents quickly.

However, it doesn’t have any hard water filter. So, make sure to fill it only with distilled water.

What I liked
  • Compatible with various smart assistants.
  • Simple and fast installation.
  • Smart alerts and notifications.
  • Integrated Smart Response Technology.
What I didn't like
  • Requires a special C wire for installation.
  • Button control might seem dated, especially if you’re used to a touch screen.

Tech Specs

Tank Capacity: 3L
Max. Coverage Area: 160 sq ft.
Max. Operating Time: 30 hours per fill
Connectivity: App via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Amazon Alexa and Google Home
9.0
High Capacity Smart Humidifier

The Proscenic 808C Humidifier is a high-capacity humidifier with several smart features that can comfortably operate in large rooms.

Top Features
  • There are seven different levels of mist output available.
  • Integrated humidity sensors for intelligent humidity control.
  • Hands-free voice control is available via Google Home and Amazon Alexa.

Designed by Proscenic with long-lasting comfort in mind, this smart humidifier can handle long humidifying sessions. With its 5.8L tank, Proscenic claims it can last up to 30 hours without needing a refill.

Product Connectivity

With the app, you can control the Proscenic 808C Humidifier through your local Wi-Fi network – as long as it’s 2.4GHz. You can also pair it with your Amazon Alexa for voice control.

Using these assistants, you can change the humidifier’s settings and enable various modes.

Product Design

With its slightly boxy shape and large tank, the Proscenic 808C Humidifier isn’t ideal for carrying from one place to another. However, it blends in well with other appliances and furniture.

So, it can be positioned permanently in a corner.

On its front panel, you have an LCD with a slide control for changing the settings manually. The display is also quite large and easy to use if you ever need to control it manually.

It features a bottom-fill design, so you need to be very careful when refilling and moving it to avoid spills. Also, you can slide out the aromatherapy tray if you need to replenish the essential oils.

What I liked
  • You can infuse your favorite scents into the air using the aromatherapy box.
  • A large 5.8L tank gives it a long operating time without refilling.
  • It has built-in ceramic and HEPA filters to help purify the water and air.
What I didn't like
  • Its bottom-fill design makes it more susceptible to leaks.
  • It connects to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection only.

Tech Specs

Tank Capacity: 5.3L
Max. Coverage Area: 330 sq ft.
Max. Operating Time: 30 hours per fill
Connectivity: App via Wi-Fi | Amazon Alexa and Google Home
8.5
Ultra-Quiet Humidifier

The Hupro Humidifier is a bare-bones, Ultra-quiet humidifier built for steady, quiet high-capacity operations.

Top Features
  • It features a high-capacity 5.5L water tank.
  • It offers an Ultra-quiet operation.
  • It features a sleek, modern design.

If you’re looking for a decent-sized humidifier for your bedroom or your workspace, then the Hupro Humidifier is your best bet.

It combines a high output capacity with automatic humidity control to provide a balanced atmosphere in your home. You can also switch between warm and cool mist modes depending on your preferences.

Product Connectivity

The Hupro Humidifier is light in the connectivity department. It offers no app, Wi-Fi, or smart home integration.

The only way you can control it is by using the touchscreen LCD on the unit. Via this LCD, you can choose between three different mist outputs, quiet mode, and more.

Product Design

The Hupro Humidifier is one of the larger humidifiers that won’t look out of place on a nightstand. Its sleek, all-black design slims down the substantial 5.5L tank in the unit.

This tank offers almost two days of consistent operation without needing a refill! Also, the tank is detachable, which makes it easy to clean and refill.

The Hupro Humidifier also sports a ceramic filter to filter out impurities, ensuring it pumps out only fresh vapor.

What I liked
  • You can choose between cool and warm mists.
  • Its large tank offers up to 40 hours of operation and covers 550 square feet.
  • It has a detachable tank for easy refilling and cleaning.
What I didn't like
  • Some users have complained about poor customer support.
  • No app, Wi-Fi, or voice assistant support.

Tech Specs

Tank Capacity: 5.5L
Max. Coverage Area: 450 sq ft.
Max. Operating Time: 40 hours per fill
Connectivity: None
8.4
Premium Pick
30 hours of continuous operation

The Ultenic H8 is a premium, well-designed smart humidifier with plenty of smart features that makes it suitable for home and office duties.

Top Features
  • It features a 4.3L tank that offers up to 30 hours of continuous operation.
  • It offers an intelligent hygrometer for automatic humidity control.
  • It features plasma air purifiers for thorough air filtering.

The Ultenic H8’s high output capacity, premium design, and features make it a stand-out choice for the modern home.

Product Connectivity

The Ultenic H8 comes bundled with Wi-Fi capabilities that enable it to be controlled via both the app and smart home assistants.

The app contains many special modes, such as the Baby mode and the Sleep mode. 

Product Design

The H8’s brushed grey exterior is one of its most eye-catching features – giving it a refined steel-like look. On top of this, there is an LCD touchscreen for manually controlling the humidifier.

The beautiful exterior masks a 4.3L tank capable of providing 30 hours of continuous operation with a single fill. It also contains a diffuser for spreading essential oils in the house.

Although the tank is a bottom-fill design, you can remove it for easy refilling and cleaning.

What I liked
  • It offers a sleep mode with three different night lights.
  • It has an auto-shutoff mode for when the tank runs out of water.
  • The 360-degree nozzle does a good job circulating the mist around.
What I didn't like
  • Some users have reported recurring error messages.
  • It only works on stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.

Tech Specs

Tank Capacity: 4.3L
Max. Coverage Area: 323 sq ft.
Max. Operating Time: 30 hours per fill
Connectivity: App via Wi-Fi | Google Home and Alexa | Remote control
8.1
Simple, Easy-To-Use Humidifier

The Ledonti Humidifier is an easy-to-use humidifier made for decent-sized rooms.

Top Features
  • It features an Ultra-quiet (<35dB) mode for whisper-quiet operations.
  • It features dual warm and cool mist modes.
  • It offers ceramic filters for fresh, odorless vapors.

With a monochrome touchscreen design and a simple, functional design, this humidifier is designed for users who aren’t tech-savvy.

Product Connectivity

Ledonti uses a well-designed app named Tuya for using the smart humidifier. This app works over your home Wi-Fi network, and you can access your humidifier from anywhere via the app.

There is also an IR remote in the package for changing settings while in the room. However, there is no voice control assistant support available.

Product Design

The Ledonti Humidifier sports a functional, cylindrical design. The touchscreen is placed conveniently on the front, making it easier to operate.

It features a top-fill tank and a slide-out tray to refill the aromatherapy box easily. Cleaning is also easy as you can remove the reservoir from the unit and clean it thoroughly.

Its decent-sized 4L tank produces up to 30 hours of operation on low settings through its 360-degree nozzle. 

As a plus, users also get an Ultra-quiet sleep mode in the app. When set to this, the humidifier’s noise drops to about 30dB.

What I liked
  • Straightforward to set up and operate.
  • The top-fill design and removable tank make it easy to clean.
  • The Ultra-quiet sleep mode reduces the humidifier’s noise at night.
What I didn't like
  • It only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connections.
  • No voice control assistant support.

Tech Specs

Tank Capacity: 4L
Max. Coverage Area: 300 sq ft.
Max. Operating Time: 20 hours per refill
Connectivity: Wi-Fi via the Tuya app | Remote control

Decision Factors when Buying a Smart Humidifier

If you're interested in a smart air purifier and humidifier combo, check out our guide here.

1. Capacity

The tank capacity of the humidifier is the maximum amount of water the tank is capable of carrying. Therefore, it determines how long the humidifier can operate without a refill.

Humidifiers with big tanks are slightly more expensive, but they can be time-saving as you don't have to refill them as often.

Another factor to look out for is the humidifier's moisture output. This refers to how much moisture the unit will produce in 24 hours.

So, before you select a humidifier, check if its specifications fit in with your space and operating hours requirements.

2. Area Coverage

The area coverage is the size of the room(s) you expect the humidifier to cover. So, this factor determines the size of the humidifier you’re going to get.

Humidifiers come in various sizes for this purpose. For example, large console units can humidify several rooms at once. 

In contrast, smaller portable units are limited to smaller spaces and rooms.

So, choosing the right area coverage depends on your needs and whether the humidifier is personal or for the whole family.

3. Noise

Like all mechanical appliances, humidifiers produce some noise during operation. However, too much noise can be distracting, especially if you're trying to sleep or work.

Consequently, it's best to check out the noise level of the humidifier you intend on buying. A noise rating of about 30dB or lower should be optimal for sleep and work.

Some models on the market use technology like Ultrasonic mist makers and brushless DC motors to achieve silence. Some even have unique quiet operating modes in their apps.

If you're looking for a low-noise humidifier, it's best to look out for these features.

4. Ease of Use

Ease of use refers to how easy it is to perform routine tasks such as refilling, cleaning, and maintaining the humidifier.

All these tasks are essential as neglecting them can result in problems for you and your humidifier.

So, it’s best to choose a humidifier with a design that makes this easier.

Look out for humidifiers with a “top-fill” design for easy water refilling. Also, the aromatherapy tray for replenishing essential oils should be easily accessible. 

Finally, make sure the water and air filters are always placed in locations with easy access and have extras on hand. So, when it’s time to change them, you can do so easily.

5. Smart Features

Smart features determine whether a smart humidifier is worth it. So, if you’re in the market for one, you should ensure it has all the smart functionality you require.

First off, make sure it has an app where you can easily change and modify the settings. Great settings to look out for include timers, auto-operation modes, aromatherapy, mist modes, just to mention a few.

Secondly, make sure the humidifier is compatible with your smart home setup. You should be able to pair it with a voice assistant for hands-free control.

Finally, connectivity should also be a priority. For example, having Wi-Fi capacity means you’ll be able to access your humidifier over a greater distance than IR or Bluetooth.

The Verdict

Getting a smart humidifier for your home is a great investment. Not only will it improve your indoor climate, but it will also do wonders for your health.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick one from the many options above and fill your home with a refreshing mist today.

9.4
Top Pick
Large Tank Capacity

The Levoit Humidifier is a large-capacity humidifier capable of operating for more than two days without the need for refilling.

Top Features
  • It features a large 6L tank capacity that offers up to 60 hours of continuous operation.
  • It offers an essential oil diffuser to infuse scents into your home.
  • It features an integrated auto-humidity sensor.

Sources

levoit.com

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12 Reasons Why Your Room Temperature Doesn’t Reach The Thermostat Setting https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/thermostat-does-not-match-temperature/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/thermostat-does-not-match-temperature/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 20:01:54 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=35681---76cdecf6-409f-4802-8878-d69743102905 If your thermostat does not reach the temperature you set, then read on to see the possible causes and how to address them.

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Several possible factors might be causing your thermostat to not maintain the predetermined temperature inside your house.

In this article, I walk through 12 causes for this problem along with appropriate solutions to get your home back to a comfortable temperature.

Let's begin!

At SmartHomePerfected, your safety is our top priority. We always encourage our readers not to take on any tasks that may be beyond their skill set. As such, it’s best to seek the assistance of a professional. 

Thermostat Recovery Mode
Make sure to set the temperature to a comfortable level. The thermostat will take care of the rest.

1. The Thermostat Temperature is Set Too High or Too Low?

Most homeowners are tempted to speed up the cooling or warming process by setting the thermostat to a very low or very high-temperature setpoint.

However, if the thermostat is set unrealistically high or low, the HVAC system may never be able to reach it or might take hours to do so.

This is because the heating or cooling equipment, such as a heat pump or air conditioner with a single stage, runs at its own pace. So if the temperature difference is too wide, the HVAC system will have to work non-stop to achieve it.

Solution: Let Your Thermostat Run at A Comfortable Temperature

So creating a wider temperature difference between the indoor temperature and the thermostat desired setpoint won’t make your HVAC equipment run any faster or stronger. 

Instead, it will run continuously, wearing down the filters and creating unnecessary strain on your system, not to mention the sky-high energy bills you’re going to accumulate when you forget to readjust the indoor temperature.

So the best course of action is not to overshoot. Simply adjust the temperature to a comfortable level with the temperature mode set to heating, cooling, or auto as required. 

Your thermostat will gradually engage the HVAC equipment to achieve and maintain this comfortable temperature without excessive power consumption.

heat pump
It's important the size of the HVAC equipment is large enough to heat or cool the space

2. Undersized HVAC System

If you have a large house, and the HVAC system is not sized appropriately, it can also lead to unattainable indoor temperatures. 

On top of that, the house can get heated up or cooled down unevenly with rooms that are closer to the supply registers reaching the desired temperature sooner while others will remain uncomfortably warm or cold. 

Solution: Upgrade your HVAC System and Optimize the Indoor Temperature Readings

If your HVAC system is undersized, there’s only one possible solution: get an HVAC company to scale up your equipment and vents so the temperature of your entire house can be adjusted evenly.

However, if it’s a problem of temperature differences, you can consider setting up a smart thermostat with remote sensors to prioritize and manage different rooms or “zones” within your house.

Mercury thermostat
Removing the front panel and clearing away any dust or debris can help its temperature sensor read more accurately

3. Thermostat is Dirty

Another common reason for inaccurate thermostat performance is the accumulation of dirt in their interior parts. 

Once dust or debris gets inside the thermostat, specifically near the embedded temperature sensor, it will cause the temperature readings to be less precise. 

Also, this can have a big impact on the lifespan of the thermostat making it last less than normal.

Solution: Clean the Interior of Your Thermostat 

You can solve this issue by cleaning the inside of the thermostat enclosure. To do that: 

  1. First, remove the panel of the thermostat. 
  2. Then, make sure you gently clean all metallic contacts with a dry cloth. Avoid cleaning with a wet cloth since it may cause electrical damage. 
  3. Make sure to dust off any vent holes so air can easily flow through the thermostat.
  4. When you’re done, put the thermostat cover back on and give it a run. 
How to Move a Thermostat
Moving a thermostat can solve the problem, but can be a large undertaking

4. The Thermostat is Installed in the Wrong Location

When it comes to reading the average temperature of the room or your entire house, the location of the thermostat can play a huge role. 

For example, if the thermostat is too close to the ground, near windows or doors, in direct sunlight, or in any place that does not accurately reflect the temperature of your home it may not function properly.

Ideally, you want it centrally located or in a common area such as a living room or master bedroom. Excluding the kitchen, of course.

Solution: Move the Thermostat

Sadly, there is no way around it: you have to change the location of the thermostat and this means: moving the thermostat wiring as well. 

However, depending on your skill level and how far you have to move it, this can turn into a major electrical project, so make sure to read this article or get help from an electrician or HVAC expert.

Thermostat Wiring
Wiring can become loose over time, causing thermostat issues

5. Loose or Incorrect Thermostat Wiring

If you just installed a new thermostat but it doesn’t operate the HVAC equipment as it normally should, you may want to double-check your wiring connections. 

If a wire is connected to the wrong terminal, or not connected at all, it can cause the HVAC system to malfunction or not respond.

Solution: Double Check the Wiring

To fix this problem, remove the cover of your thermostat and make sure there aren’t loose wires.

You can check for loose wires by gently pulling them. If the wires come loose, then you need to reseat them and secure them tightly. 

Also, check the thermostat wiring color codes to ensure they’re connected to the appropriate terminals. If you have wired it wrong, disconnect the appropriate wires and rewire them accordingly. 

You can check the user manual for the correct wire configurations.

Temperature and Humidity Sensors
Integrated or external temperature sensor can malfunction

6. Malfunctioning Temperature Sensor

Sometimes the internal temperature sensor of your thermostat may be faulty. 

So, to confirm this, check the room’s temperature through a dedicated thermometer and see if it matches up with the temperature reading on the thermostat. 

This comparison can quickly indicate whether the integrated temperature sensor still functions properly.

Solution: Repair or Replace the Thermostat 

If you come across this problem, the only solution is to replace the sensor. However, in some cases, you cannot replace these spare parts and you might end up having to buy a new thermostat entirely. 

First, check if the sensor can be replaced by the manufacturer, if not, consider replacing the thermostat or going for an upgrade.

Will a Thermostat Work Without Batteries?
Now might be a good time to replace the batteries if you haven't done so in a while

7. The Thermostat Might Be Losing Power

If your thermostat display is fading, it is a clear sign that the thermostat is losing power. This can be caused by battery problems, loose wiring, or just regular wear and tear. 

Solution: Replace the Batteries or Address Any Wiring Issues

The easiest thing to do is to replace the batteries of the thermostat. If this doesn’t fix the problem, check if the wiring is secure or correctly installed. 

In the end, if none of the above works out, you may want to consider replacing the thermostat.

Nest Reset
Restarting and Resetting is always worthwhile

8. The Thermostat Needs to Be Reset

If your thermostat measures temperature accurately and you still can pinpoint why the system is struggling to reach the desired temperature, it might be a glitch or programming error within the thermostat. 

Solution: Factory Reset the Thermostat

In this case, try to reset the thermostat. Most thermostats have an option for factory reset, which will restore all their settings to default. 

To know how to factory reset your specific model, check the user guide. 

Additionally, you can carry out a reset using the menu (for most Honeywell thermostats) or locate the reset button placed under the thermostat’s cover. 

If you find a reset button, press and hold it for a few seconds. This should reset your thermostat to its factory settings.

If the problem still persists, try removing the batteries as well.

HVAC Filter
Clogged air filters can cause major issues

9. Problems With Your HVAC Equipment

When it comes to your HVAC system, problems such as an undersized HVAC system, clogged air filters, and debris buildup around the heat pump can drastically reduce its efficiency.

These issues prevent your system from reaching the desired temperature, leaving you feeling uncomfortable in your own home.

Solution: Get Help From a Professional

To identify potential issues, carefully inspect each component of your HVAC system for signs of malfunction, such as unusual noises or lights. Additionally, check for dirty fan ducts or pipes that may be inhibiting airflow.

However, digging into the troubleshooting aspects of an entire HVAC system is better left to the professionals. Therefore, I recommend getting the help of a professional HVAC technician who can accurately diagnose and address the underlying issue.

For Mechanical Thermostats

Although these types of thermostats have been widely replaced by digital models, many homes still use them. 

So even if mechanical thermostats can generally be reliable, it's not uncommon for them to have issues with maintaining accurate room temperatures.

So let’s consider 3 additional reasons why your mechanical thermostat would struggle to achieve the desired temperature setpoint.

10. The Anticipator May Be Defective

The anticipator is a small metal piece installed on a dial inside a mechanical thermostat that is responsible for operating the furnace. 

As the name suggests, the anticipator “anticipates” the temperature in a room before it turns uncomfortable level. Therefore, it predicts the temperature change and switches the furnace on or off as necessary. 

If the anticipator is not working, your thermostat won’t reach the desired temperature setpoint or it might even overshoot without shutting down the furnace.

Solution: Recalibrate the Thermostat Anticipator 

Adjusting, repairing, or replacing the anticipator can fix this issue.

11. The Thermostat is Not Level

Mercury thermostats might measure temperature inaccurately or their regular operations may be interrupted if the thermostat panel is not perfectly square. 

This happens because the slant causes the mercury to always tilt towards one end regardless of the indoor temperature. 

Solution: Make Sure the Thermostat is Level

Make sure the thermostat is in a perfectly horizontal position, and the mercury switch is straightened and leveled. 

You may need a spirit level to check the level along with a drill to re-drill any holes.

Make sure you mark the new holes correctly and use a center punch tool or a loose nail to create a small depression before drilling. 

12. The Thermostat Needs to Be Re-Calibrated

There are situations in which mechanical thermostats lose their calibration because of old batteries or electrical issues.

Even newly installed thermostats may require additional time to settle in, despite being calibrated. 

Solution: Recalibrate the Thermostat

To recalibrate your thermostat, check the user manual provided by the manufacturer and follow the given instructions. 

You can also try replacing the batteries or consider shifting to a digital thermostat that does not require calibration.

The Verdict

There can be many reasons why your HVAC system is struggling to meet your desired temperature setpoint. However, almost half of these can be solved right at the thermostat. 

So make sure the thermostat is correctly wired, with a fresh set of batteries, and proper temperature settings.

However, if if the issue lies within the heating or cooling equipment, I recommened calling in the professionals to take a look.

References

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How to Change the Batteries on a White Rodgers / Emerson Thermostat https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/change-batteries-white-rodgers-emerson/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/change-batteries-white-rodgers-emerson/#respond Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:33:05 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=57406---3e449b53-3f90-408e-b861-20903ade557d To ensure peak performance and efficiency, it is strongly suggested to regularly swap out the batteries in your White Rodgers/Emerson thermostat. It's especially vital to change the batteries without delay when you notice a low battery alert. A thermostat running on low batteries can disable Wi-Fi, create automatic temperature offsets or even power down and revert to default settings. So in this…

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To ensure peak performance and efficiency, it is strongly suggested to regularly swap out the batteries in your White Rodgers/Emerson thermostat. It's especially vital to change the batteries without delay when you notice a low battery alert.

A thermostat running on low batteries can disable Wi-Fi, create automatic temperature offsets or even power down and revert to default settings.

So in this guide, I'll provide detailed instructions on how to replace the batteries in your Sensi and Emerson thermostat models.

Identify Your Thermostat’s Model

First off, you need to know your thermostat model number.

If it's not etched on the outside, you might have to check the inside of the thermostat display/cover or the inside of any button compartments.

Replace the Batteries in a White Rodgers/Emerson Thermostat

In this section, I’ll walk you through how to replace the batteries in your White Rodgers/Emerson and Sensi thermostats. 

You can scroll down and find the instructions specific to your model. I've included images of each model to make it easy to identify your one.

Sensi Smart Thermostat

1F87U-42WF

Sensi Smart Thermostat 2
  • C-Wire: Optional, but recommended for certain systems 
  • Battery Indicator: Upper right of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA 
  1. Firmly grab the face plate/display of the thermostat with both hands and pull it straight towards you.
  2. Locate and remove the 2 AA Alkaline batteries found on the back of the face plate.
  3. Wait until the front display of the thermostat goes blank.
  4. Then, insert 2 fresh AA Alkaline batteries into the face plate.
  5. Push the face plate back onto the wall mount. You should hear it snap or click into place.
  6. After that, wait around 1-5 minutes for the thermostat to restart and reconnect.

Sensi Lite Smart

1F76U-22WFB

Sensi Lite Smart
  • C-wire: Optional 
  • Battery Indicator: No 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AAA
  1. Grab the face plate with both hands and pull it towards you.
  2. Take out the two AAA batteries housed in the face plate.
  3. Let the front display panel turn blank.
  4. Slide in two new AAA Alkaline batteries and firmly press the face plate back onto the wall until it clicks into place.
  5. Finally, give the thermostat between 1-5 minutes to restart and automatically re-establish its Wi-Fi connection.

Sensi Room Sensor

Additional temperature sensor that connects remotely to Sensi thermostat

Sensi Room Sensor
  • C-wire: No 
  • Battery Indicator: No 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AAA
  1. To find the battery compartment, you must first turn the sensor over.
  2. After that, you'll find a small slot or indentation where you can easily pry it open.
  3. Once the battery compartment is open, simply take out the old AAA batteries.
  4. Now, grab your new AAA batteries and install them. Don’t forget to match the polarities (positive and negative ends) indicated inside the battery compartment.
  5. Then, close the compartment door; making sure it snaps back into place properly.
  6. Give the sensor between 1 to 5 minutes to re-establish a connection with the thermostat again.
  7. After that, confirm the connection with the sensor via the Sensi app.

Emerson Blue Series 12″ Touchscreen

1F95-1277, 1F95-1280, 1F97-1277, 1F95-1291

Blue Series 12 Emerson Touchscreen Thermostat
  • C-wire: Depends on the system 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, the middle section of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA

Keep note of any “Change” messages in the middle section of your thermostat screen as this indicates that your batteries need replacing.

  1. First, pull off the thermostat from its wall mount.
  2. Then, flip over the thermostat display and you can find the battery compartment in the back.
  3. Open the compartment carefully.
  4. After that, remove the spent AA batteries from the compartment.
  5. Replace them with two new AA batteries, ensuring that you match the correct positive and negative terminals as per the engraved guide.
  6. Close the battery compartment securely.
  7. Reattach the thermostat to its base on the wall.

The thermostat will put out a small tone or beep, signaling that power has been restored.

Emerson Blue Series 6″

1F95EZ-0671, 1F95-0671, 1F95-0680

Blue Series 6 Inch
  • C-wire: Optional but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, lower left 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA
  1. Start by setting your thermostat system to “OFF”. This will prevent any electrical complications or unexpected HVAC equipment operation during the battery swap.
  2. Gently remove the thermostat device from its wall mount. Be careful not to disrupt the thermostat wiring.
  3. Once the display is removed, locate the battery holder on the back of the display, usually along the top edge.
  4. Carefully take out the old batteries.
  5. Replace the old batteries with two new “AA-size” alkaline batteries. For better performance, premium brands such as Duracell or Energizer are highly recommended.
  6. After you’ve installed the batteries in the holder, reattach the thermostat to its wall mount.
  7. If your home is going to be left unoccupied for more than three months, it's best to replace the batteries with a fresh set before you depart. This ensures the thermostat won’t die out while you’re away. 
Blue Series 6 Rear View
Rear view of the Emerson Blue Series 12″ Thermostat

Emerson Blue Series 4″

1F85-0422 ,1F83-0471

Blue Series 4 Inch
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, middle of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA
  1. Before you begin, make sure your system is set to OFF.
  2. To access the batteries, locate the battery door at the upper left of the thermostat’s enclosure.
  3. Then, gently lift up the battery door. This will reveal the two batteries.
  4. Take out the old batteries.
  5. Following this, insert a couple of fresh “AA” alkaline batteries. Making sure you note down the polarities. 
  6. Close the battery door by pushing it down and making sure it snaps back.
  7. Wait until the device restarts and check the battery indicator in the middle of your thermostat's screen. Make sure it doesn’t display “change.” 
Blue Series 4 Battery Compartment
Battery tab in the upper left corner of the Blue Series 4″ enclosure

Emerson Blue Series 2″

1F80-0261, 1F80-0224, 1F86EZ-0251, 1F86-0244, 1F82-0261, 1F89EZ-0251, 1F89-0211

Blue Series 2 Inch 1
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, mid-left of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA 
  1. First, take out the thermostat from the wall so it’s easier to replace the batteries.
  2. Then, locate the battery door at the top left of the thermostat’s enclosure.
  3. You can then push or pull the door to loosen it and lift it open.
  4. Then, take out the old batteries.
  5. Insert the new batteries into the compartment, making sure to check the polarities indicated on the underside of the lid.
  6. Then, close the door and push everything back into place.
  7. Wait until the device restarts and confirm if the thermostat detects the new batteries. The battery indicator (at the left of the display) should indicate a full charge.

Classic 70 Series

1F75C-11NP, 1F75C-11PR, 1F75H-21NP, 1F75H-21PR, 1F75P-21NP, 1F75P-21PR

Classic 70 Series
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, mid-left of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA 

Usually, the display will put out a “Change” message, indicating that it needs a fresh set of batteries.

  1. First, remove the front cover of the thermostat. You can easily pull it out from the wall mount by grabbing onto the cover and pulling it towards you.
  2. You can find the old batteries located at the top of the wall mount. Pry them out.
  3. Then, put in a fresh set of batteries, making sure to install them in the correct polarities.
  4. Finally, reinsert the front cover/faceplate back onto the thermostat.

Classic 80 Series

1F80-361, 1F82-261, 1F86-344, 1F87-361, 1F89-211

Classic 80 Series
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, mid-left of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA 

In most models of this lineup, the display will put out “BATT,” “CHANGE,” or “LO” to indicate low batteries. 

  1. First, set the system switch to “Off.”
  2. Then, pull the faceplate or front cover of the thermostat off the wall mount. Make sure you pull the thin cover at the front and not the wall mount itself. 
  3. After that, you can easily locate the battery compartment at the top of the thermostat.
  4. Take out the old batteries and replace them with a fresh set
  5. Then, reinstall the cover, making sure it clicks firmly into place.

Emerson 70 Series

1F75C-11NP, 1F75C-11PR, 1F75H-21NP, 1F75H-21PR, 1F75P-21NP, 1F75P-21PR

70 Series
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, mid-left of the screen 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA 

When “BATT” or “CHANGE” appears on your 70 series White Rodgers/Emerson thermostat, it's time to replace the batteries.

  1. Pull the front cover away from the thermostat baseplate
  2. You can then take out the old batteries at the top of the thermostat.
  3. After that, put in a fresh set of AA batteries, making sure the polarities are correct.
  4. After that, reinstall the front cover.

Emerson 80 Series

1F83C-11NP, 1F83C-11PR, 1F83H-21NP, 1F83H-21PR, 1F85U-22NP, 1F85U-22PR, 1F85U-42NP, 1F85U-42PR

80 Series 1
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: Upper left 
  • Batteries Required: 2 x AA 

When the batteries need replacing, the battery icon at the upper left of the display will show an empty battery level alongside a “Replace” message. 

  1. To replace the batteries, pull the thermostat display off the wall mount. 
  2. After that, locate the battery slot at the back of the thermostat display.
  3. Then, pry out the old batteries and put in a fresh set.
  4. Reattach the thermostat display back into the wall mount

Comfort-Set® 90 Series

1F90/1F97-3XX, 1F90-60

If90 Comfort Set
  • C-wire: Optional, but recommended 
  • Battery Indicator: No 
  • Batteries Required: 3 x AA 
  1. To replace the batteries, first, pull the thermostat from its wall mount.
  2. After that, flip the device over and you’ll find the battery compartment at the back.
  3. Take out the old batteries and replace them with a fresh set.
  4. After that, reinstall the thermostat display back onto the wall. 
Comfort Set 90 Battery Replace
Location of the batteries in the 1F90 Comfort Set

IF80 Classic 80 Series

1F80-71

1F80 Classic 80 Series
  • C-wire: Recommended for most systems
  • Battery Indicator: Yes, bottom left of the display
  • Batteries Required: 3 x AA

The display will put out a “BATT” notification to let you know the batteries need replacing. 

  1. To replace the batteries, simply remove the front panel off the thermostat base
  2. You can find the batteries at the top of the thermostat base.
  3. Take out the three AAA batteries and put them in a fresh set, making sure the polarities are proper.
  4. Then, reattach the face plate, and you’re done!
If80 Comfort Set Battery Replace
Battery compartment in the 1F80 Comfort Set Thermostat

How Often Should You Change the Batteries?

Usually, the batteries on most non-smart White Rodgers thermostats can keep running for a full year. 

Meanwhile, the battery life tends to be shorter on the Sensi lineup of smart models since they utilize a constant Wi-Fi connection.

Regardless, you can extend battery life by implementing a C-wire to your thermostat. This helps resolve any lingering power issues, while also providing enough power to the thermostat so it doesn’t need to rely entirely on batteries.

Most models, even the older ones, will indicate a low battery level on the display and notify you when it’s time to replace it. 

So ideally, I recommend checking for the battery levels once a month and keeping a fresh set of alkaline batteries nearby so you can quickly swap out the old ones without running to the store. 

Wrapping Up

Fortunately, replacing the batteries on a White Rodgers/Emerson thermostat is not a very tedious process. 

You don’t need to recharge the device or use any special tools, just a set of fresh Alkaline AAAs or AAs, depending on your model. 

So make sure to check out the instructions specific to your model and drop us a comment if you run into any problems. 

Sources

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Precision and Perfection: The Role of Laser Cutting in Plastic Production https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/laser-cutting-in-plastic-production/ Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:33:01 +0000 https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/?p=110706_5410d5b9-bd84-4bc5-885e-f91491238e8f Within the dynamic domain of manufacturing, where the quest for exactness and flawlessness is relentless, laser cutting has surfaced as a game-changer, particularly in the field of plastic production. This innovative technology has revolutionised how we shape, design, and finish plastic products, offering unparalleled accuracy and efficiency.  Let's delve into how laser cutting is making waves in the plastic industry and why…

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Within the dynamic domain of manufacturing, where the quest for exactness and flawlessness is relentless, laser cutting has surfaced as a game-changer, particularly in the field of plastic production.

This innovative technology has revolutionised how we shape, design, and finish plastic products, offering unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. 

Let's delve into how laser cutting is making waves in the plastic industry and why it's become an indispensable tool for manufacturers aiming for the zenith of quality and precision.

Tools

The Magic Behind Laser Cutting

At its core, laser cutting is a technology that uses a high-powered laser to cut or engrave materials. When it comes to plastic, the precision it offers is second to none. 

Imagine drawing with a pen that never misses a dot or a line; that's the level of accuracy we're talking about. But how does it work? 

The laser beam is directed at the plastic material, which then either melts, burns, vaporises, or is blown away by a jet of gas, leaving an edge with a high-quality finish.

Why Laser Cutting Stands Out in Plastic Production

The beauty of laser cutting lies in its versatility and precision. Unlike traditional cutting methods, laser cutting doesn't require any physical contact with the material, which means there's no risk of contaminating the plastic or causing any mechanical wear and tear. 

This non-contact process results in smoother edges and reduces the need for post-processing, saving both time and money.

Moreover, the precision of laser cutting allows for intricate designs and patterns that would be nearly impossible to achieve with conventional cutting methods. 

Whether it's complex geometric shapes or delicate cut-outs, laser cutting makes it all possible with astonishing accuracy.

The Environmental Edge

In today's eco-conscious world, the environmental impact of manufacturing processes is under constant scrutiny. Here, laser cutting shines yet again. 

By producing less waste and using energy more efficiently, laser cutting is a more sustainable choice compared to traditional plastic cutting methods. It's a win-win: manufacturers can reduce their environmental footprint while still achieving superior quality products.

Applications of Laser Cutting in Plastic Production

The applications of laser cutting in plastic production are vast and varied. From the automotive industry, where precision-engineered parts are crucial, to the world of consumer electronics, where aesthetic appeal and functionality go hand in hand, laser cutting plays a pivotal role. 

It's also a game-changer in the medical industry, where the demand for high-quality, precision-made plastic components is ever-present.

For those keen on exploring further about the transformative impact of laser cutting in plastic production, seeking more info from reputable sources can provide deeper insights into its applications and benefits.

In Summation

As we've journeyed through the role of laser cutting in plastic production, it's clear that this technology is not just about cutting; it's about redefining the boundaries of precision and perfection. 

Its ability to deliver high-quality, intricate designs with minimal waste and environmental impact makes it a cornerstone in the future of manufacturing.

In an era where the demand for precision cannot be overstated, laser cutting stands as a testament to how technology can elevate craftsmanship to new heights. 

Whether you're a manufacturer, designer, or simply someone fascinated by the marriage of technology and art, the world of laser cutting in plastic production is a realm where the future is being shaped, one precise cut at a time.

Sources

forbes.com

Smart Home Perfected

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How to Reset a Nest Thermostat https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/reset-nest-thermostat/ https://www.smarthomeperfected.com/reset-nest-thermostat/#comments Tue, 30 Apr 2024 19:25:26 +0000 https://smarthomeperfected.com/?p=6337---152863e1-0c50-4fbf-87df-4d985068f899 Is your Nest Thermostat stuck on a blank screen, lost Wi-Fi, or are you moving home? We detail how to perform schedule, Wi-Fi and factory resets on your Nest Thermostat.

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There might be specific situations where it becomes essential to reset your Nest thermostat.

You might be facing issues with the temperature settings or you might just be selling the thermostat or switching things up with your HVAC system.

Whatever the case, I’ll show you how to carry out a reset in the guide below so let’s get into it.

Restart vs Reset: What's the Difference?

Restarting your Nest Thermostat is like rebooting a computer – it resolves minor glitches without affecting your settings.

Resetting, on the other hand, erases specific or all stored information, helping you adjust to significant changes.

Restarting a Nest Thermostat

Typically, you only need to rely on a restart if your thermostat screen is stuck or frozen. If the screen is blank, you might have to troubleshoot any power issues before following through with a restart. 

To restart your Nest Thermostat: 

  1. Press and hold down the thermostat ring for about 10 seconds, or until the screen completely powers off.
  2. Release the ring, then press it once more, initiating the restart process.
  3. Wait for the screen to fully turn on, which signals that the restart process is complete.

Types of Resets for Nest Thermostats

Nest Thermostat offers various reset options: 

  1. Schedule Reset
  2. Wi-Fi Reset 
  3. Away Reset
  4. Factory Reset (All Settings)

Each serves a specific purpose, depending on your needs.

However, before you follow through with each of these reset procedures, make sure to write down any of your old schedules, customer settings, or hardware information (such as the system wire configuration, HVAC equipment, and temperature settings). 

To access the hardware information, you can head over to the “Equipment” menu under Settings.

At SmartHomePerfected we always advise readers not to undertake any work they are not competent in performing and if in any doubt, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional.

1. Schedule Reset

All Nest Thermostats, including the 3rd Gen and Nest E, enable users to set personalized schedules for their home's cooling and heating systems.

Performing a Schedule Reset on your Nest Thermostat deletes all this existing schedule data from the device.

It clears your temperature settings, erasing any learned or manually input set points. Therefore, you may need to reset the existing schedule to create a new one depending on your daily routine.

Nest Thermostat
A schedule reset is crucial if you want to create a new routine from scratch

How to Schedule Reset

To carry out a “schedule” reset: 

  1. Press on the ring surrounding the thermostat screen, allowing you to access the main menu.
  2. Turn the Nest Ring, scrolling to the ‘Settings' option, then press the ring again to select it.
  3. Within the settings menu, scroll to the ‘Reset' option and press the Nest Ring once more.
  4. Scroll down to the ‘Schedule' option and tap the Nest Ring to choose this reset type.
  5. Finally, select either ‘Reset' or ‘Clear' (depending on your thermostat model) by pressing the ring one last time.
  6. Follow the instructions on the thermostat to confirm the changes. Typically, you’ll have to turn the ring half a turn or wait until a timer runs out.
  7. After that, your Nest thermostat schedule will reset, followed by a quick rebooting.

After the thermostat restarts, your schedule will be cleared.

2. Wi-Fi Reset

Resetting the Wi-Fi on a Nest thermostat is crucial when switching to a new router or troubleshooting connection issues.

With a Wi-Fi reset, you'll erase the current network settings and prepare your device to connect to a new Wi-Fi network.

Also, if a power outage or connection failure has left you with a spotty Wi-Fi connection, a simple Wi-Fi reset may help resolve the issue.

Carrying Out a Wi-Fi Reset

  1. Press the Nest ring button to wake up the screen and open the quick-view menu
  2. Then, head over to Settings
  3. Select Reset
  4. Choose “Network”
  5. Press Reset or Clear
  6. Follow the instructions to provide confirmation
  7. Wait for the device to complete the reset and rebooting procedure.

You have now reset your Nest Wi-Fi configuration. To sign in to a new Wi-Fi network, go to Settings → Network.

3. Away Reset

If you would like to remove all settings and temperature configurations related to home vs away or home/away assist modes, then you can carry out an “Away” Reset.

Below are the steps to achieve this:

  1. Wake up the screen and open up the quick-view menu
  2. Move to Settings
  3. Scroll to “Reset” and select this option
  4. Tap on “Away”
  5. Press Reset or Clear
  6. Follow any confirmation prompts

Your Nest Away settings are now reset

Nest Thermostat Delayed
An “Away” reset clears the information it learns about your movements and stops adjusting the temperature automatically

4. Factory Reset

A Hard/Factory Reset is the ultimate solution to any recurring problem. Apart from fixing any technical problems, a hard rest will turn any Nest Thermostat completely new, overwriting every setting on your device and restoring it to default. 

If you are moving out of your old house, or selling the thermostat, I highly recommend you perform a Hard Reset to make sure all your personal information is removed from the device. 

Also, before going through with a factory reset, make sure to note down any custom settings and remove the thermostat from your Nest account.

How to Remove a Nest Thermostat from Your Nest Account

  1. Open the Nest App.
  2. Tap on the Menu icon at the top left.
  3. Pick the home that is connected to the Nest thermostat you want to remove.
  4. From the App home screen, select the thermostat you want to remove.
  5. From the upper right-hand corner, tap the Settings icon.
  6. Scroll down, and tap on “Remove.”
  7. Confirm your choice by following any prompts that may show up

After this, your device will be removed from your Nest account. You can safely continue with the factory reset process on the thermostat.

How to Factory Reset A Nest Thermostat

  1. Press the thermostat ring button to wake up the screen and open up the quick-view Menu.
  2. Then, tap the settings icon on the display
  3. Locate and select ‘Reset'
  4. Scroll down to ‘All Settings' and select this option
  5. To confirm your action, turn the ring as instructed

The Nest thermostat will now begin the factory reset process. It will also reboot after the factory reset, after which you can start reconfiguring the device.

Conclusion

Instead of going directly to a factory reset, you have several reset options for specific settings. As such, you can either clear the schedule, Wi-Fi, or “Away” settings without having to start back up from scratch.

Beyond that, you can also restart the device to clear any glitches or frozen screen errors, so don’t forget to check the guide above and drop us a comment if you have any questions. 

Cited Sources

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