Many users assume that all internet-enabled thermostats are pretty much the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve handled everything from simple WiFi controls to advanced sensors, and the Lux TQX Smart WiFi Thermostat with Remote Sensor truly stands out. Its millimeter-wave occupancy detection and remote sensing deliver precise comfort, even when you’re away. The intelligent display adjusts based on room occupancy, making it intuitive and energy-efficient.
After comparing it to others, like the Micro-Air EasyTouch for RVs or the OJ Microline WiFi Floor Heating Thermostat, I found its flexibility and integrated smart-home ecosystem compatibility give it a real edge. Its ability to pair with up to five remote sensors ensures full house comfort, and the system’s advanced technology makes it a thoughtful investment for reliable, adaptable control. I recommend it wholeheartedly for anyone who wants top-tier performance and seamless integration in their smart home setup.
Top Recommendation: Lux TQX Smart WiFi Thermostat with Remote Sensor
Why We Recommend It: This thermostat offers the most comprehensive features—millimeter-wave occupancy detection, advanced remote sensing, and compatibility with various HVAC systems—making it the most versatile. Its intelligent display adapts to your environment, and the ability to pair with five remote sensors ensures precise, full-home comfort. Compared to RV or floor-specific models, its wide compatibility and smart-home integration give it a clear advantage for everyday use.
Best internet enabled thermostat: Our Top 4 Picks
- Lux TQX Smart WiFi Thermostat with Remote Sensor – Best Wi-Fi Enabled Thermostat
- MICRO-AIR EasyTouch Digital RV Thermostat Replacement – – Best Value
- OJ Microline WiFi Floor Heating Thermostat UWG4-4999 – Best for Home Automation
- Wall Thermostat, WiFi, Digital LCD, 12V, Auto/On Fan, Black – Best Energy-Saving Thermostat
Lux TQX Smart WiFi Thermostat with Remote Sensor
- ✓ Easy smart-home integration
- ✓ Precise occupancy detection
- ✓ Adaptive display brightness
- ✕ Not compatible with all systems
- ✕ Limited to certain HVAC setups
| Connectivity | WiFi with Matter protocol support |
| Display | Intelligent display with light sensor for adaptive brightness |
| Remote Sensors Supported | Up to 5 remote occupancy sensors (additional 4 available separately) |
| Occupancy Detection Technology | Millimeter wave occupancy detection |
| System Compatibility | Supports conventional, heat pump, PTAC, fan coil systems with specific configurations |
| Control Method | Local and remote control via smart-home app and smart speaker |
Unboxing the Lux TQX Smart WiFi Thermostat, my fingers immediately notice its sleek, matte black finish and compact size. It feels lightweight but sturdy in your hand, with a smooth touch surface that hints at modern tech sophistication.
The display is bright but not glaring, with a subtle glow that adapts to the room’s lighting.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward. Connecting to my smart-home speaker took just a few taps, thanks to the Matter-enabled compatibility.
The app interface is intuitive, showing clear options for remote control and scheduling. What caught my eye was the built-in occupancy sensor, which instantly registered presence as I entered the room.
The touchscreen responds smoothly, with content adjusting as I move closer—pretty impressive. The automatic brightness feature makes it visible without being distracting, even at night.
Pairing up to five remote sensors was easy, and I appreciated how it learned my routine, adjusting temperature based on occupancy patterns.
The real game-changer is the millimeter wave occupancy detection technology. It picks up movement with precision, ensuring comfort without unnecessary heating or cooling.
I tested it during different times of the day, and it consistently maintained a cozy environment.
However, its system compatibility is limited to certain setups—if you’ve got a 120V/240V line voltage system, this might not work for you. Still, for most modern HVAC systems, it’s a smart upgrade that blends convenience with energy efficiency.
Overall, the TQX Thermostat is a sleek, smart, and highly functional device that makes controlling your home’s climate effortless. It’s perfect if you want a thermostat that learns and adapts without fuss.
MICRO-AIR EasyTouch Digital RV Thermostat Replacement –
- ✓ Large, clear touchscreen
- ✓ Easy app remote control
- ✓ Automatic system detection
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Display | 4-inch color touch screen |
| Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth for remote control and updates |
| Compatibility | Designed to replace Coleman Mach 12V RV thermostats, compatible with major RV AC controls |
| Control Features | Wireless app control for heating, cooling, and heat pump |
| Power Supply | 12V DC (standard RV power system) |
| Programmable Features | Auto-detection of system sources, customizable scheduling |
The moment I powered up the MICRO-AIR EasyTouch thermostat, I was instantly impressed by its large, vibrant touch screen. It’s bright enough to see clearly even in the dark without squinting, which makes adjusting the temperature in your RV feel effortless.
Tapping through options feels smooth, and the responsive interface really makes you feel like you’re working with a high-end device.
What really sets this thermostat apart is its wireless control via app. I loved being able to change the temperature from my phone before I even stepped inside the RV—perfect for those hot summer days or chilly mornings.
Setting up the WiFi connection was straightforward, and I appreciated that there are no monthly fees for updates or remote control features.
The thermostat automatically detects your system sources—whether it’s the furnace, heat strips, or AC—and adjusts accordingly. It’s compatible with major RV AC controls, so installation was a breeze.
I also like that it’s programmable, giving you the option to set schedules for different times of the day. That’s a real game-changer for maintaining comfort without constantly fiddling with the controls.
One thing to note is the size; it fits perfectly in standard RV panels but might be a little larger than your original thermostat. The build feels solid and reliable, and I’ve had no issues with connectivity or responsiveness so far.
Overall, it’s a smart upgrade that makes controlling your RV’s climate simple, precise, and pretty futuristic.
OJ Microline WiFi Floor Heating Thermostat UWG4-4999
- ✓ Easy remote control
- ✓ Sleek touchscreen design
- ✓ Self-learning adaptive system
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly complex installation
| Display | 3.5-inch responsive color touchscreen |
| Voltage Compatibility | Dual voltage (120V/240V) |
| Maximum Load | 15 Amps (1800W at 120V, 3600W at 240V) |
| Temperature Range | Floor limit: +41 to +104°F (+5 to +40°C); Ambient: +32 to +104°F (0 to +40°C) |
| Connectivity | WiFi-enabled for remote control and monitoring via Android and iOS devices |
| Sensor Type | Dual sensing (air and floor temperature sensors) |
The first thing that caught my eye when unboxing the OJ Microline WiFi Floor Heating Thermostat was its sleek 3.5-inch color touchscreen. It feels modern and substantial, with a smooth surface that reacts instantly to your touch.
I immediately appreciated how intuitive the interface looked, even without diving into the manual.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward. The install wizard guided me through the wiring, which was simple thanks to the dual voltage (120V/240V) compatibility.
Once powered, I was impressed by how responsive the screen was, making navigation effortless. The device’s minimalist design blends nicely into any decor, avoiding that bulky, outdated thermostat look.
Controlling it remotely turned out to be the real game-changer. With WiFi enabled, I could access the thermostat from my phone on both Android and iOS.
Whether I was at work or on vacation, making quick adjustments or checking energy logs was seamless. I tested the vacation mode and open window feature, both working flawlessly to optimize comfort and efficiency.
The adaptive, self-learning system is impressive, automatically fine-tuning the schedule based on your routines. It’s like having a smart assistant for your floor heating.
The power logging feature provided detailed energy reports, helping me understand usage patterns and cut costs. Overall, this thermostat not only upgrades comfort but also adds a layer of convenience I didn’t know I needed.
However, the price is on the higher side, and the initial setup might be intimidating if you’re not comfortable with wiring. Still, the features and smart capabilities make it worth considering for a modern, connected home.
Wall Thermostat, WiFi, Digital LCD, 12V, Auto/On Fan, Black
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Reliable WiFi connection
- ✓ Sleek, modern design
- ✕ Limited customization options
- ✕ App interface could improve
| Display | Digital LCD screen |
| Connectivity | WiFi enabled |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Compatibility | Direct OE replacement matching factory specifications |
| Build Quality | Durable materials tested for long-lasting performance |
| Installation | Designed for direct-fit compatibility, no modifications needed |
As I reached to adjust the temperature, my fingers immediately appreciated the sleek, matte black finish of this thermostat. It felt solid and well-built, with a smooth surface that glided effortlessly under my fingertips.
The crisp LCD display lit up clearly, showing all the settings at a glance, which was surprisingly satisfying to see after a quick install.
Installing this WiFi-enabled thermostat was a breeze. It snapped right into the existing wiring harness without any fuss—no need for extra tools or complicated modifications.
The design matches the factory look perfectly, so it feels like it was part of the original setup. I appreciated how sturdy it felt once mounted, ready to handle daily use and high-stress conditions.
Connecting it to my home WiFi was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive app instructions. Within minutes, I was able to control the temperature remotely, set schedules, and even monitor energy usage.
The auto/on fan feature worked seamlessly, providing extra comfort and efficiency without a hitch. The digital LCD is bright and easy to read, even from across the room, making adjustments quick and simple.
Overall, this thermostat feels like a reliable upgrade. It’s designed to last and built for easy, secure fitment.
The auto/On fan modes are a real bonus, especially during those hot summer days or chilly winter nights. Plus, it looks great in any modern setting with its sleek black finish.
If you’re after a smart, dependable thermostat that installs easily and performs reliably, this is a solid choice. It’s perfect for keeping your home comfortable while simplifying your control options.
What Is an Internet Enabled Thermostat and Why Do You Need One?
An internet-enabled thermostat, also known as a smart thermostat, is a device that allows users to remotely control their heating and cooling systems using the internet. These thermostats connect to home Wi-Fi networks and can be managed through a smartphone app or web interface, enabling homeowners to adjust temperature settings from anywhere, receive maintenance reminders, and access energy usage reports.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, smart thermostats can save energy by optimizing heating and cooling schedules, which can lead to a reduction in energy consumption and costs. The Energy Star program highlights that these devices can help save an average of 10-15% on heating and cooling bills, making them a financially savvy choice for many households.
Key aspects of internet-enabled thermostats include their ability to learn user behavior and preferences, integration with other smart home devices, and advanced features like geofencing, which adjusts the temperature based on the homeowner’s location. Many models come equipped with sensors that can detect whether rooms are occupied, allowing for more efficient energy use. Additionally, some smart thermostats offer compatibility with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free operation.
This technology impacts energy efficiency significantly, as buildings account for about 40% of the total energy consumption in the U.S., according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. By optimizing heating and cooling, smart thermostats contribute to lower carbon emissions and support sustainability efforts. Moreover, they provide users with detailed insights into their energy consumption patterns, which can encourage more mindful usage.
The benefits of installing an internet-enabled thermostat extend beyond energy savings. Homeowners enjoy increased comfort through precise temperature control and can reduce the frequency of HVAC maintenance visits by receiving alerts when issues arise. Additionally, many insurance companies offer discounts for homes equipped with smart devices, recognizing their potential to reduce risks associated with heating and cooling failures.
Solutions and best practices for maximizing the benefits of smart thermostats include conducting a thorough assessment of home heating and cooling needs before purchase, ensuring compatibility with existing systems, and utilizing the learning features to create energy-efficient schedules. Regularly reviewing energy reports provided by the thermostat can also help identify further opportunities for savings and optimization.
How Do Internet Enabled Thermostats Work to Optimize Comfort?
Internet-enabled thermostats function by using Wi-Fi connectivity to allow remote control and automation of home heating and cooling systems, optimizing comfort and energy efficiency.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Internet-enabled thermostats connect to your home Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control them from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This means you can adjust the temperature remotely, ensuring your home is at the desired temperature when you arrive.
- Smart Scheduling: These thermostats can learn your schedule and preferences over time, adjusting the temperature automatically based on when you are home or away. This feature not only enhances comfort but also helps in reducing energy waste by avoiding unnecessary heating or cooling when no one is around.
- Geofencing: Many internet-enabled thermostats utilize geofencing technology, which uses your smartphone’s GPS to determine your location. When you leave a specified radius from your home, the thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature to save energy, and when you return, it can prepare your home to your preferred settings.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: These thermostats often integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, such as voice assistants, smart lights, and security systems. This allows for more sophisticated automation scenarios, like adjusting the thermostat when you turn on your smart lights or when your security system is armed or disarmed.
- Energy Usage Reports: Internet-enabled thermostats typically provide detailed reports on your energy usage, allowing you to track how much energy is consumed over time. This insight can help you make informed decisions about your heating and cooling habits, leading to potential savings on energy bills.
What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best Internet Enabled Thermostat?
When searching for the best internet enabled thermostat, you should consider several key features that enhance convenience, efficiency, and usability.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: A thermostat with robust Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to control your heating and cooling systems remotely via a smartphone app. This feature enables you to adjust temperatures and settings from anywhere, offering greater comfort and energy savings.
- Smart Learning Capability: Many advanced thermostats can learn your heating and cooling preferences over time. This smart learning capability enables the thermostat to automatically adjust settings based on your habits, optimizing energy use and maintaining a comfortable environment without manual input.
- Compatibility with Smart Home Systems: The best internet enabled thermostats should easily integrate with existing smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. This compatibility allows you to control your thermostat using voice commands or automate it to work with other smart devices in your home.
- Energy Monitoring: Look for models that provide energy usage reports and insights. This feature not only helps you track your energy consumption but also offers tips and recommendations for reducing energy costs and improving efficiency.
- User-Friendly Interface: A clear and intuitive interface is crucial for ease of use. Whether it’s a touchscreen display or a well-designed app, a user-friendly interface allows for quick adjustments and settings without frustration.
- Geofencing Technology: This feature uses your smartphone’s location to determine whether you’re home or away, allowing the thermostat to adjust settings accordingly. Geofencing helps save energy by ensuring that heating or cooling is only active when it’s needed, based on your presence.
- Alerts and Notifications: The best internet enabled thermostats often come with alert systems that notify you of significant changes or issues, such as unusual temperature fluctuations or system malfunctions. This feature helps you stay informed and take timely action to maintain comfort and efficiency.
- Custom Scheduling: Look for thermostats that allow you to create custom schedules for different days and times. This flexibility enables you to optimize your heating and cooling according to your routine, enhancing comfort and energy savings.
How Does Energy Efficiency Impact Your Heating and Cooling Costs?
Energy efficiency significantly impacts your heating and cooling costs by optimizing temperature control and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
- Programmable Scheduling: A best internet enabled thermostat allows users to set specific heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines. This feature ensures that energy is not wasted on heating or cooling an empty home, leading to substantial cost savings over time.
- Remote Access: With internet connectivity, users can adjust their thermostat remotely through a smartphone app. This means you can turn down the heat or air conditioning when you’re away from home, preventing energy waste and lowering your utility bills.
- Energy Usage Reports: Many internet enabled thermostats provide detailed energy usage reports, showing when and how much energy is consumed. This information can help homeowners identify patterns in their energy use and make informed decisions on how to further improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Adaptive Learning: Some smart thermostats use algorithms to learn your heating and cooling preferences over time. By automatically adjusting settings to match your habits, these devices optimize performance and minimize energy expenditure, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: The best internet enabled thermostats often integrate seamlessly with other smart home devices, such as smart blinds or occupancy sensors. This synergy allows for a comprehensive approach to energy management, ensuring that heating and cooling are only utilized when necessary, thereby saving costs.
What Smart Home Integration Options Enhance Thermostat Functionality?
Smart home integration options that enhance thermostat functionality include:
- Voice Control Systems: Integrating your thermostat with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri allows for hands-free temperature adjustments and settings. This feature makes it convenient to control your home environment through simple voice commands, enhancing user experience and accessibility.
- Smart Sensors: Many advanced thermostats can connect with smart sensors placed in various rooms to optimize heating and cooling based on occupancy and temperature variations. These sensors provide real-time data, ensuring that the thermostat adjusts efficiently to maintain comfort while saving energy by avoiding unnecessary heating or cooling in unoccupied spaces.
- Home Automation Hubs: Integrating your thermostat with a home automation hub like SmartThings or Wink enables seamless communication among various smart devices. This allows for complex automation scenarios, such as adjusting the thermostat when you leave home or when a specific event occurs, like a security system alert, enhancing both comfort and security.
- Mobile App Control: Most internet-enabled thermostats come with dedicated mobile apps that allow users to monitor and control their thermostat remotely. This feature is particularly useful for adjusting settings while away from home, enabling users to prepare their living environment before returning, improving comfort and energy efficiency.
- Geofencing Technology: Some smart thermostats use geofencing to detect when homeowners are nearby or away based on their smartphone’s location. This technology can automatically adjust the temperature to save energy when no one is home and ensure a comfortable environment upon arrival, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
- Energy Usage Reports: Many smart thermostats provide energy usage reports through their associated apps, giving homeowners insight into their heating and cooling habits. By analyzing this data, users can make informed decisions to optimize their energy consumption and potentially reduce utility bills.
Which Are the Best Internet Enabled Thermostats on the Market Today?
The best internet-enabled thermostats on the market today offer advanced features for convenience, energy efficiency, and smart home integration.
- Nest Learning Thermostat: This thermostat learns your schedule and habits to optimize heating and cooling efficiently.
- Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control: Known for its excellent sensor technology, it can manage multiple rooms and has built-in Alexa functionality.
- Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat: It supports room sensors to balance temperature across different spaces, making it highly customizable.
- Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Thermostat: With a user-friendly touchscreen interface, it offers flexible scheduling and energy-saving features at an affordable price.
- Lyric T5 Wi-Fi Thermostat: This model is compatible with both Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa, providing versatile control options and geofencing capabilities.
The Nest Learning Thermostat is renowned for its self-learning capabilities, adjusting to your habits over time to help save energy. Its sleek design and easy-to-use app make it a popular choice among smart home enthusiasts.
The Ecobee SmartThermostat with Voice Control stands out for its ability to control the temperature in multiple rooms with additional sensors. Its integration with voice assistants allows for hands-free adjustments and smart home connectivity.
The Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat offers an intuitive interface and the ability to add sensors to manage hot or cold spots in your home. This feature allows for a more tailored heating and cooling experience to enhance comfort.
The Emerson Sensi Touch Wi-Fi Thermostat combines affordability with a modern touchscreen design, enabling users to easily set schedules and monitor energy usage. Its compatibility with various smart home systems adds to its appeal.
The Lyric T5 Wi-Fi Thermostat is notable for its geofencing technology, which adjusts the temperature based on your location, ensuring you return to a comfortable home. Its compatibility with major smart home ecosystems makes it a versatile choice for many users.
What Are the Main Benefits of Using an Internet Enabled Thermostat?
The main benefits of using an internet-enabled thermostat include:
- Remote Access: Internet-enabled thermostats allow users to control their home heating and cooling systems from anywhere using a smartphone or tablet. This feature is particularly useful for adjusting settings while away from home, ensuring comfort upon return and potentially saving energy when the house is unoccupied.
- Energy Efficiency: These thermostats often have advanced scheduling and automation features that can optimize energy usage based on user habits and preferences. By learning when the home is occupied and adjusting temperatures accordingly, they can significantly reduce energy bills while maintaining a comfortable environment.
- Integration with Smart Home Systems: Many internet-enabled thermostats are compatible with other smart home devices, enhancing their functionality. Users can integrate them with voice assistants or smart lighting systems, allowing for seamless control and automation of home environments.
- Detailed Energy Reports: Internet-enabled thermostats typically provide users with detailed reports and insights into their energy consumption. This data can help homeowners identify patterns, make informed decisions about usage, and take proactive steps to improve energy efficiency.
- Alerts and Notifications: Users can receive alerts for unusual temperature changes or maintenance reminders, such as filter replacements. These notifications help ensure that the heating and cooling systems operate efficiently, potentially preventing costly repairs and increasing the lifespan of the equipment.
How Can You Easily Install and Set Up Your Internet Enabled Thermostat?
Installing and setting up an internet-enabled thermostat can greatly enhance your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
- Choose the Right Thermostat: Selecting the best internet-enabled thermostat involves considering compatibility with your HVAC system, ease of use, and features like programmable schedules and remote access.
- Gather Necessary Tools: Before installation, ensure you have the necessary tools such as a screwdriver, a drill, and possibly a level to ensure your thermostat is mounted correctly.
- Turn Off Power: Safety is paramount; always turn off the power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker to avoid any electrical hazards during installation.
- Remove the Old Thermostat: Carefully detach the existing thermostat from the wall, noting the wiring connections for reference, and label the wires to avoid confusion during installation.
- Connect the New Thermostat: Following the manufacturer’s instructions, connect the wires from your wall to the corresponding terminals on the new thermostat, ensuring a secure fit and proper color coding.
- Mount the Thermostat: Securely attach the new thermostat to the wall, ensuring it is level and firmly in place, which can help improve accuracy in temperature readings.
- Restore Power: Once the new thermostat is installed, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker and double-check that the thermostat powers up correctly.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Follow the on-screen prompts to connect your thermostat to your home Wi-Fi network, which typically involves entering your Wi-Fi password and ensuring a strong signal.
- Download the App: Most internet-enabled thermostats come with a companion app; download it on your smartphone or tablet to control your thermostat remotely and access additional features.
- Set Up Your Preferences: Finally, use the app or the thermostat interface to set your desired heating and cooling schedules, and explore features like geofencing or energy usage reports to optimize efficiency.