Answering the question for homeowners with older houses: smart and programmable thermostats from Honeywell offer reliable, simple ways to manage cooling without invasive installations. These options suit buyers who want easier temperature control, energy savings, and compatibility with legacy HVAC systems. This guide highlights five top choices, focusing on ease of use, compatibility, and energy-management features for older homes.
Buyer quick-reference table
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell Home RTH7600D | Moderate tech users; 7-day programming | Large touchscreen; 7-day programming | No Wi‑Fi connectivity |
| Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 | Smart home integration; energy rebates | Color touchscreen; Wi‑Fi; energy programs | More complex setup |
| Honeywell CT87N1001 The Round | Low-tech, quick temperature control | Simple dial control; mercury-free | Non-programmable |
| Honeywell Home RTH221B1039 | Weekly programming; simple digital display | One-week program; precise control | Basic interface |
| Honeywell Home RTH8560D | Flexible weekly scheduling | 7‑day scheduling with touchscreen | Older model; may lack newer smart features |
Honeywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen Thermostat
The RTH7600D is a classic programmable thermostat with a large touchscreen for easy access. It supports a 7‑day schedule with four periods per day and offers home/away temperature settings to help conserve energy when occupants are away. Best for homeowners who want straightforward, reliable scheduling without Wi‑Fi connectivity. This unit is well suited for older homes where a simple, non‑connected thermostat is preferred or where a quick upgrade from a dial model is desired. Caution: lacks built‑in Wi‑Fi or smart features, so remote adjustments aren’t possible.
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF1004 Wi‑Fi Smart Color Thermostat
This color‑screen, Wi‑Fi thermostat is ideal for tech‑savvy buyers seeking remote access, custom décor matching, and energy rebates through utility programs. It supports flexible scheduling and can participate in demand response programs where eligible utilities offer incentives during peak usage. Choose this if you want home automation compatibility and potential energy savings through rebates. Limitation: setup can be more involved, and advanced features may require ongoing app use and internet connectivity.
Honeywell Home CT87N1001 The Round Non‑Programmable Thermostat
The CT87N1001 Round Thermostat is the traditional, non‑programmable option with a familiar circular design. It’s quick and simple to adjust, making it suitable for households that prefer a manual temperature control without programming. It’s mercury‑free and includes a decorative cover ring to hide wall marks. Best for households seeking a straightforward, low‑maintenance control. Consideration: no scheduling or automation features.
Honeywell Home RTH221B1039 Programmable Thermostat
The RTH221B1039 offers one‑week programming with four periods per day, including wake, leave, arrive, and sleep. It provides precise temperature control within +/- 1 degree and features an easy‑to‑read digital display. This model suits buyers who want reliable, periodic adjustments without ongoing internet connectivity. It’s a good middle ground between basic manual thermostats and full smart systems. Limitation: fewer advanced energy‑saving programs than Wi‑Fi models.
Honeywell Home RTH8560D 7 Day Programmable Thermostat
The RTH8560D is a 7‑day programmable unit designed for flexible weekly scheduling. It features a clear touchscreen display and supports routine programming across days and weekends. It’s well suited for households that want routine‑based cooling control on a schedule, without needing smart features. Caution: Depending on the HVAC setup, installation may require basic wiring knowledge common to older homes.
Buying Guide
- Wired vs. Wi‑Fi: Decide if remote access matters. Wi‑Fi models enable remote adjustments but require a stable internet connection and can be more complex to install in older houses.
- Programming Needs: If you prefer set‑and‑forget schedules, choose a multi‑period 7‑day model. For minimal interaction, a non‑programmable unit is simplest.
- Compatibility: Ensure the thermostat matches your HVAC system and wiring. Some older homes use heat only or traditional gas/electric systems that may limit advanced features.
- Display and Usability: A large, easy‑to‑read display helps reduce misadjustments, especially for guests or temporary residents.
- Energy Programs: Some models support energy rebates or demand‑response programs. Check local utility offerings before selecting a Wi‑Fi model.
- Install Considerations: In older houses, wall depth, trim plates, and wall finishing can affect fit. Confirm mounting compatibility and whether a simple replacement is feasible.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the advantage of a programmable thermostat in an old home? It enables schedule‑based cooling control, saving energy and maintaining comfort with minimal manual adjustments.
- Do I need Wi‑Fi for energy rebates? Not always. Some rebates are available for Wi‑Fi capable units, but eligibility varies by utility program and region.
- Can I install a new thermostat myself in an old home? Yes, if you are comfortable with basic wiring. Many units include step‑by‑step guides, but consult a pro if wiring is uncertain.
- Is a non‑programmable thermostat enough? For simple, constant cooling control, a non‑programmable unit is sufficient and easy to use.
- Will a smart thermostat work with old HVAC equipment? Most modern thermostats work with common cooling and heating setups, but verify compatibility with your furnace and AC blower before purchasing.
- How do energy rebates work? Rebates often require participation in utility programs. Check eligibility and enrollment steps with your provider.
