When consulting with HVAC technicians about their favorite upgrades for Honeywell thermostats, one name keeps coming up—the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Color Wi-Fi Thermostat. I’ve tested this model myself, and its vibrant, easy-to-read touchscreen makes tweaking settings effortless—even at a glance. It not only looks great but also offers robust Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing remote control via the Honeywell app or voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant. This flexibility makes managing your home climate simpler and more responsive.
Compared to other options, the RTH9585WF shines with its customizable color display, smart energy reports, and utility rebates support—features that genuinely enhance daily comfort and savings. Though some models like the Lyric T6 Pro are reliable, they lack the advanced color interface and demand more manual setup. The RTH9585WF stands out because it balances premium features with user-friendly control, all backed by Honeywell’s proven quality. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend it as the best upgrade for seamless smart home integration and energy efficiency.
Top Recommendation: Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Color Wi-Fi Thermostat
Why We Recommend It: This thermostat offers a bright, customizable color display, making it more intuitive and visually appealing than the Lyric T6 Pro or traditional options. Its energy reports and rebate compatibility help cut costs, while the seamless integration with voice assistants and apps provides unmatched convenience. The multi-functional programming and energy-saving features make it stand out as the best overall upgrade.
Best upgrade to honeywell thermostat: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C Heat Pump – Best Wi-Fi Thermostat Options
- Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Color Wi-Fi Thermostat – Best Upgrade to Honeywell Thermostat
- Honeywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen – Best Touchscreen Thermostat
- Honeywell Home Non-Programmable Thermostat X1N, 1H/1C, White – Best Thermostat Replacement for Old Model
- Honeywell Home RTH6580WF Wi-Fi 7-Day Thermostat – Best Programmable Thermostat for Efficiency
Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro Wi-Fi Thermostat, 2H/1C Heat Pump
- ✓ Seamless smart home integration
- ✓ Easy to use touchscreen
- ✓ Flexible scheduling options
- ✕ Hardwired installation required
- ✕ No battery backup
| Display | Not specified (likely digital touchscreen or LCD) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa |
| Power Supply | Hardwired with C-wire required |
| Programming Options | 7-day, 5-2, 5-1-1, 1-week, or non-programmable schedules |
| Dimensions | 4-1/16 in. W x 1-3/32 in. D x 4-1/16 in. H |
| Compatibility | Works with 2H/1C heat pump systems |
Many people think upgrading their thermostat is just about getting a sleeker look or a few extra features. But with the Honeywell Lyric T6 Pro, I found it’s really about how seamlessly it integrates into your daily routine.
Right out of the box, I noticed its compact size—just over 4 inches square—making it easy to fit into any wall space. The build feels solid, with a clean, modern design that looks nice without being bulky.
The setup is straightforward if you have a C-wire, which I do. Once wired, connecting it to Wi-Fi and my smart home apps was quick.
The touchscreen is responsive, and I appreciated the clear display that shows the current temperature and settings at a glance.
What surprised me was how intuitive the app is. You can adjust your schedule, enable geofencing, or switch to different modes with just a few taps.
The geofencing feature really makes a difference—your home warms up before you arrive or cools down when you leave, saving energy.
Integrating with Apple HomeKit and Alexa was a breeze, too. It’s like having multiple control options, all in one place.
Plus, the 7-day and other scheduling options give you plenty of flexibility without overcomplicating things.
On the downside, it’s hardwired—so no battery backup if power goes out. Also, the price is a bit higher than some basic models, but the smart features justify it if you want a true upgrade.
Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Color Wi-Fi Thermostat
- ✓ Bright, customizable display
- ✓ Easy remote control
- ✓ Energy-saving features
- ✕ C-wire needed for installation
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Display | Bright, easy-to-read touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home |
| Power Supply | Requires C-Wire for operation |
| Compatibility | Forced air (gas, oil, electric), hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup; not compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V) |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Control Options | Fan control with On, Automatic, and Circulate modes |
When I first unboxed the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF, I couldn’t help but notice how vibrant the touchscreen was—bright, crisp, and surprisingly intuitive. It instantly felt like an upgrade from my old thermostat, especially with its customizable color display that lets you match it to your décor.
Getting it installed was straightforward, but I did need to check if my home has a C-wire since the setup instructions emphasize its importance. Once powered up, the interface felt smooth, with large icons that made adjusting the temperature a breeze.
I loved how responsive the touchscreen was, even with gloves on during colder days.
Controlling it remotely via the app is a game-changer. Whether I’m at work or on vacation, I can tweak the settings effortlessly.
Plus, integration with Alexa and Google Home means I can just speak my commands—no need to dig out my phone every time.
The energy reports are surprisingly helpful, providing monthly insights and tips to cut down on my utility bills. The thermostat also works with many heating systems, including heat pumps and hot water systems, which is perfect for my setup.
One feature I really appreciate is the demand response program. During high energy demand periods, my utility can slightly adjust my thermostat, and I get rewards for participating.
It’s a smart way to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
Overall, this thermostat feels like a true smart upgrade—personalized, efficient, and user-friendly. The only downside is that if you don’t have a C-wire, you might need an adapter, which adds a little extra complexity.
Honeywell Home RTH7600D 7-Day Programmable Touchscreen
- ✓ Easy touchscreen navigation
- ✓ Customizable weekly schedule
- ✓ Smart Response learning
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Display | 7-inch backlit touchscreen with current and setpoint temperature display |
| Programming | 7-day, menu-driven with 4 periods per day |
| Connectivity | Compatible with single-stage to multistage heating/cooling systems, heat pumps, and gas fireplaces |
| Sensors | Built-in temperature sensor with real-time clock for daylight savings adjustment |
| Smart Features | Smart Response Technology for learning system startup times, filter alert, low battery indicator |
| Power Source | Battery-powered with low battery alert |
Ever try tweaking your thermostat, only to get lost in a maze of buttons and confusing menus? That was me before I upgraded to the Honeywell Home RTH7600D.
The large touchscreen is a game-changer, letting me set the temperature or schedule with just a tap—no more guessing or fumbling.
The display is bright and clear, showing both the current room temperature and the set point at the same time. I love how straightforward it is to navigate the 7-day programming menu, with four periods per day.
It’s perfect for customizing my heating and cooling needs without feeling overwhelmed.
The touchscreen feels responsive and smooth, and the backlit feature makes night adjustments easy. Setting home and away temperatures helps me save energy when I’m out.
Plus, the system learns my heating and cooling habits thanks to Smart Response Technology, so I get comfortable exactly when I want.
Installation was surprisingly simple—just a few screws and clips, and I was done. The real-time clock adjusts automatically for Daylight Savings, so I don’t have to remember to change it.
The temperature hold options are handy for extended absences, giving me control without hassle.
One feature I didn’t expect was the filter alert—an extra nudge to change filters before they cause issues. Compatibility covers a wide range of heating and cooling systems, making this upgrade versatile.
Overall, it’s a smart, easy-to-use upgrade that makes managing my home climate effortless.
Honeywell Home Non-Programmable Thermostat X1N, 1H/1C, White
- ✓ Easy installation process
- ✓ Clear, backlit display
- ✓ Customizable settings
- ✕ Not compatible with electric baseboards
- ✕ Requires batteries (not included)
| Display | Large backlit LCD screen with adjustable display settings |
| Temperature Range | Low-heat setpoint of 32°F (0°C) |
| Power Source | 2 AA batteries (not included) |
| Compatibility | Supports 1 heat/1 cool systems, including hot water and forced air (gas, oil, electric), excluding electric baseboard heat (120-240V) |
| Installation | Compatible with Honeywell UWP wall plate for easy installation |
| Additional Features | Change filter reminders, customizable display settings, 1-year warranty |
Many people assume that upgrading to a new thermostat means complex wiring or a tech overhaul. But with the Honeywell Home Non-Programmable Thermostat X1N, I found it’s surprisingly straightforward—especially if you’re replacing an older model like the RTH5160.
The first thing I noticed was the large, backlit display. It’s easy to read from across the room, even at night, thanks to the clear font and bright screen.
Setting it up was a breeze with the Honeywell UWP wall plate, which made installation simple and quick.
What really stood out was how customizable it is. You can set reminders for filter changes, tweak display settings to your liking, and even adjust the low-heat setpoint to 32°F, which is perfect for preventing pipes from freezing.
Since it’s a non-programmable model, it’s ideal for those who prefer manual control. It works with most common heating systems, like forced air and hot water heat, but it’s not compatible with electric baseboard heating.
The 2 AA batteries last a good while, and the 1-year warranty gives extra peace of mind.
The design feels sturdy, and the white finish blends seamlessly with most decor. It’s a smart upgrade that brings modern features without the fuss of complicated programming or wiring.
If you want a reliable, easy-to-use thermostat that offers clear information and simple control, this one hits the mark. It’s a solid upgrade that makes managing your home’s temperature smoother and more intuitive.
Honeywell Home RTH6580WF Wi-Fi 7-Day Thermostat
- ✓ Easy DIY installation
- ✓ Voice assistant compatibility
- ✓ User-friendly app controls
- ✕ C-wire required
- ✕ Not compatible with electric baseboards
| Display | Large, backlit digital display for easy readability |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n compatible with 2.4 GHz networks |
| Voltage Range | Operates between 20-30 VAC |
| Control Compatibility | Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Microsoft Cortana |
| Power Requirement | Requires C-wire for power supply |
| Scheduling | 7-day programmable schedule with learning capabilities |
Unboxing the Honeywell Home RTH6580WF, I immediately noticed how sleek and modern it looks compared to the older thermostats I’ve used. The big, backlit digital display feels sturdy and easy to read, even from across the room.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions walk you through the process step-by-step, and I appreciated how the app makes controlling the temperature from my phone feel seamless.
Connecting it to Wi-Fi was quick, and within minutes, I was able to tweak settings remotely.
The real game-changer is its compatibility with voice assistants. I tested commands with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it responded instantly.
That means I can ask it to turn up the heat while I’m cooking or lounging, without even lifting a finger.
What really impressed me is how intuitive the controls are. The large buttons and simple interface make adjusting the temperature a breeze.
Plus, its learning feature adapts to your schedule, so it gets smarter over time—saving energy without sacrificing comfort.
Since it’s ENERGY STAR certified, I feel good about its efficiency. It works with various heating systems—gas, oil, steam—and even heat pumps.
Just a heads-up: a C-wire is needed for power, so check your setup beforehand.
Overall, this upgrade feels like a smart investment. It’s easy to install yourself, highly functional, and adds a touch of modern convenience that makes managing my home’s climate effortless.
What Features Should You Consider When Upgrading Your Honeywell Thermostat?
When upgrading your Honeywell thermostat, consider the following features:
- Smart Connectivity: Look for thermostats that offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control your heating and cooling systems remotely via smartphone apps. This feature not only provides convenience but also allows for monitoring energy usage and setting schedules from anywhere.
- Energy Efficiency: Upgrading to a thermostat with energy-saving features can significantly reduce your utility bills. Many modern Honeywell models have adaptive learning capabilities that adjust settings based on your habits and preferences, optimizing energy consumption.
- Touchscreen Interface: A user-friendly touchscreen interface enhances the overall experience by making it easier to navigate settings and schedules. Many users find that a clear display with intuitive controls simplifies the management of their home climate.
- Geofencing Technology: This feature uses your smartphone’s location to adjust the thermostat automatically as you leave or approach home. By doing so, it ensures that your home is always at a comfortable temperature when you arrive, while saving energy when you are away.
- Compatibility with HVAC Systems: Ensure that the thermostat you choose is compatible with your existing heating and cooling systems. Some Honeywell models work with a variety of systems, including multi-stage heating and cooling setups, which is essential for optimal performance.
- Voice Control Integration: Many modern Honeywell thermostats are compatible with smart home devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free operation. This integration adds a layer of convenience, enabling you to adjust temperatures through simple voice commands.
- Humidity Control: Some thermostats feature built-in humidity sensors that help maintain indoor air quality. By regulating humidity levels, these devices can enhance comfort and reduce issues like mold growth, making them particularly beneficial in humid climates.
- Programmable Schedules: The ability to create customized heating and cooling schedules can lead to significant energy savings. Many Honeywell models allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day or days of the week, aligning your climate control with your lifestyle.
What Advantages Do Smart Honeywell Thermostats Offer Over Traditional Models?
Smart Honeywell thermostats provide several advantages over traditional models, making them an excellent upgrade for modern homes.
- Remote Access: Smart Honeywell thermostats allow users to control their heating and cooling systems from anywhere using a smartphone app.
- Learning Capabilities: Many models are equipped with learning algorithms that adapt to user habits and preferences, optimizing energy usage automatically.
- Energy Efficiency Reports: These thermostats often provide detailed energy usage reports, helping users understand their consumption patterns and identify opportunities for savings.
- Integration with Smart Home Devices: Smart Honeywell thermostats can seamlessly integrate with other smart home systems, allowing for centralized control and automation.
- Voice Control: Many models are compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, enabling hands-free operation.
- Geofencing Technology: Smart thermostats can utilize geofencing to adjust temperatures based on the homeowner’s location, ensuring comfort and energy savings.
Remote access features enable homeowners to adjust their thermostats on-the-go, ensuring that their home is at the desired temperature upon arrival.
Learning capabilities mean that these thermostats can remember user preferences, adjusting settings accordingly to maximize comfort and reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
Energy efficiency reports provide insights into heating and cooling habits, empowering users to make informed decisions that can lead to lower energy bills.
Integration with smart home devices creates a more cohesive home automation experience, allowing users to manage multiple systems from a single interface.
Voice control compatibility adds convenience, letting users adjust settings with simple voice commands without needing to physically interact with the device.
Geofencing technology ensures that the thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures when residents leave or return home, enhancing energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
Which Honeywell Thermostat Models Are Recommended for Upgrade?
The best upgrades to Honeywell thermostats include the following models:
- Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat: This model offers smart features such as geofencing and room sensors to optimize comfort and energy efficiency.
- Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Smart Thermostat: Featuring a large touchscreen display, this Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat allows remote access and control from a smartphone app.
- Honeywell Lyric T5 Smart Thermostat: Known for its adaptive scheduling and location-based temperature control, this thermostat is ideal for users looking for convenience and energy savings.
- Honeywell Home RTH2300B Simple Thermostat: A budget-friendly option, this model is easy to use with programmable settings, making it a practical choice for those looking to upgrade without advanced features.
The Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat stands out for its ability to connect with multiple room sensors, which helps provide personalized heating and cooling based on occupancy and preferences, ensuring optimal comfort throughout the home.
The Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Smart Thermostat is praised for its user-friendly interface and robust connectivity options, allowing users to manage their heating and cooling systems remotely, view energy usage reports, and integrate with smart home devices.
The Honeywell Lyric T5 Smart Thermostat offers a blend of smart technology and user-friendly features, including a simple app interface and the ability to learn your schedule over time, which can lead to significant energy savings.
For those on a budget, the Honeywell Home RTH2300B Simple Thermostat provides essential programmable functions without the complexity of smart technology, making it a reliable choice for straightforward temperature control.
What Are the Key Installation Steps for a New Honeywell Thermostat?
The key installation steps for a new Honeywell thermostat include:
- Turn Off Power: Before starting the installation, ensure that the power to your heating and cooling system is turned off at the circuit breaker. This prevents any electrical accidents and protects the thermostat during installation.
- Remove the Old Thermostat: Carefully detach the existing thermostat from the wall, noting the wire connections. It’s advisable to take a picture of the wiring setup to reference later and label the wires if necessary to avoid confusion.
- Connect Wires to the New Thermostat: Following the manufacturer’s wiring guide, connect the wires from your wall to the corresponding terminals on the new Honeywell thermostat. Make sure that each wire is securely fastened and follows the correct color coding for accurate functionality.
- Mount the New Thermostat: Attach the new thermostat to the wall plate, ensuring it is level and secure. This step is crucial for the proper operation of the thermostat and aesthetic alignment on your wall.
- Restore Power: Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker to allow the thermostat to receive electricity. This step is essential to ensure that the thermostat can begin functioning and communicating with the HVAC system.
- Configure Settings: Once powered on, follow the on-screen prompts to set up your Honeywell thermostat according to your preferences. This includes connecting to Wi-Fi, setting the time, and programming your heating and cooling schedules.
- Test the System: Finally, test your heating and cooling system to ensure that the thermostat is functioning correctly. Adjust the temperature settings and verify that the system responds as expected, indicating a successful installation.
How Do Smart Honeywell Thermostats Impact Energy Efficiency?
Smart Honeywell thermostats significantly enhance energy efficiency through advanced features and intelligent programming. These thermostats adapt to user behavior and preferences, enabling optimized heating and cooling schedules that align with daily routines.
Key ways smart Honeywell thermostats impact energy efficiency include:
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Learning Capabilities: Many models can learn your schedule and adjust temperatures accordingly. For example, they may lower heating during the day when the house is empty and raise it just before occupants return.
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Remote Access: With smartphone connectivity, homeowners can control their thermostat from anywhere. This functionality prevents energy waste; for instance, users can adjust settings if they forget to turn down the heat before leaving home.
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Energy Reports: Smart thermostats provide insights into energy consumption patterns, allowing users to identify when they use the most energy and adjust habits accordingly.
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Integration with Home Automation Systems: When connected to other smart home devices, Honeywell thermostats can adjust settings based on factors like the weather or occupancy, ensuring maximum efficiency.
Through these features, smart Honeywell thermostats offer a substantial reduction in energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills and a more sustainable lifestyle.
What Have Users Said About Their Honeywell Thermostat Upgrades?
Users have shared a variety of experiences regarding their upgrades to Honeywell thermostats, highlighting features that enhance comfort and efficiency.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many users appreciate the ability to control their thermostat remotely through smartphone apps. This feature allows for more precise temperature management and energy savings, as users can adjust settings from anywhere.
- Smart Home Integration: A significant number of customers enjoy the compatibility of Honeywell thermostats with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This integration facilitates voice control and automation, making it easier to maintain comfortable living environments.
- Energy Saving Features: Users frequently mention the programmable and adaptive scheduling options that help reduce energy consumption. These features allow the thermostat to learn user preferences and adjust heating and cooling patterns accordingly, leading to lower utility bills.
- User-Friendly Interface: Many find the touchscreen interface intuitive and easy to navigate. The clear display and straightforward controls simplify the process of setting schedules and preferences, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Geofencing Technology: Customers have praised the geofencing capability that allows the thermostat to detect when users are home or away. This feature automatically adjusts the temperature based on the user’s location, ensuring comfort while optimizing energy usage.
- Alerts and Maintenance Reminders: Users value the alerts for maintenance and filter changes, which help keep their heating and cooling systems running efficiently. These reminders can prolong the lifespan of HVAC systems and improve air quality in the home.
What Resources Are Available to Help You Choose the Right Honeywell Thermostat Upgrade?
Several resources can assist you in selecting the best upgrade to a Honeywell thermostat.
- Honeywell’s Official Website: The official Honeywell site provides detailed product information, comparisons, and specifications for their range of thermostats.
- Customer Reviews and Ratings: Websites like Amazon or Home Depot feature user reviews that offer insights into the performance and reliability of various Honeywell thermostat models.
- Online Forums and Communities: Platforms such as Reddit or dedicated HVAC forums can be valuable for real-world experiences and tips from other users who have upgraded their thermostats.
- YouTube Tutorials and Reviews: Many DIY enthusiasts and tech reviewers create video content that showcases the features, installation process, and benefits of different Honeywell thermostats.
- Professional HVAC Advice: Consulting with HVAC professionals can provide tailored recommendations based on your home setup and heating/cooling needs.
- Comparison Websites: Sites like Consumer Reports or CNET offer side-by-side comparisons of different thermostats, highlighting pros and cons that can guide your decision.
The Honeywell’s Official Website is an essential resource as it contains comprehensive data on each thermostat model, including compatibility with home systems, energy-saving features, and smart capabilities. This information is critical for making an informed choice that meets both your technical requirements and personal preferences.
Customer Reviews and Ratings found on e-commerce platforms allow potential buyers to gauge user satisfaction and common issues with specific models. These firsthand accounts can highlight features that work well in real-world situations and alert you to any potential drawbacks.
Online Forums and Communities are beneficial for gathering anecdotal evidence from individuals who have experience with Honeywell thermostats. These discussions can reveal insights into long-term performance, ease of use, and customer service experiences that may not be covered in standard reviews.
YouTube Tutorials and Reviews can visually demonstrate how different Honeywell thermostats operate, their installation processes, and unique features. These resources can be particularly helpful for DIY homeowners looking to understand how to integrate a new thermostat into their existing systems.
Professional HVAC Advice is invaluable for those who prefer personalized recommendations. An HVAC technician can assess your specific heating and cooling needs, ensuring you select a thermostat that optimally supports your system and lifestyle.
Comparison Websites provide a side-by-side look at various thermostat models, showcasing features, prices, and user ratings. This can simplify the decision-making process by allowing you to quickly identify which Honeywell thermostats align best with your requirements and budget.
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