(Part 2) Best home programmable thermostats according to redditors

Edit: as this might be a furnace or boiler there is a safety concern here. I don't know what the skill level here is but this isn't something that anyone can play with. Putting in an approved stat is one thing but making your own stat is asking for trouble.

HVAC controls person here, almost all equipment is 24vAC these days for control voltage. Something else that's a problem when converting from these old mechanical stats is they never ran a neutral/return wire. What you likely have is a 24v hot wire and the call for (assuming) heat wire. So now if you want to power something you are missing a wire to do that. If you get lucky you'll find they ran a multiconductor wire and you can just connect (blue or brown) to ground and have at it.

The amount of hassle here isn't worth it when you can go with a cheap battery powered stat like this
Lux Products TX9600TS Universal 7-Day Programmable Touch Screen Thermostat https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0044UYVFW

Ecobee is looking real nice now. I wanted to switch even before, as I believe that Ecobee can be controlled locally.

*edit: The Nest thermostat was literally the first smart home device I bought and what got me started down this path. A couple years of education later, I'll be getting one of these: https://www.amazon.com/TRANE-Thermostat-Z-Wave-Works-Alexa/dp/B00SYPSIRU/

You really wouldn't want something like a smart switch due to the power draw when you initially turn on the air conditioner AND you wouldn't really be able to control it. You'd want something that can shoot commands to the AC (assuming it comes with a remote that's IR).

The following products all fulfill that niche!

• Remotec Z-Wave ZXT-120
  
  
• Tado
  
  
• The Pebble
  
  
• Ambi
  
  
• Altris
  
  
• Broadlink
  
  
• Flair Puck
  
  
• Nature Remo
  
  
• Rumy

Don't use a thermistor. Use a LM35 or other Si-based sensor that outputs a voltage.

I wouldn't bother with "dimming" the heater either. Just compare the output of the LM35 to a fixed voltage from the switch to toggle the heater on or off.

Or you could just buy one...

I always enjoy seeing photos of various mercury switches from "back in the day". If scientists had known how bad mercury is back in the 50s and 60s, things would have been different.

I bought a house last year that was built in '75, and the thermostat was an old White Rogers model complete with a mercury switch.

I replaced it with a Honeywell WiFi thermostat (loving it) and used the mercury switch to make a sensor to alert me when my mailbox door gets opened. I accomplished this with an Amazon dash button, which I opened and soldered the switch contacts to, so the mercury would close the circuit when the mailbox door was opened. The Dash button connects to my WiFi and notifies me when I've got mail, via a text and sound alert on my phone. There's an Instructables tutorial that shows how.

I would get one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Programmable-Thermostat-Hycency-Temperature-Controller/dp/B07SBN2N69/ref=asc_df_B07SBN2N69/

Mount it inside one of these:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/frigidaire-20-2-cu-ft-frost-free-upright-freezer-white-energy-star/50273097?cm_mmc=shp-_-c-_-prd-_-app-_-google-_-lia-_-118-_-freezers-_-50273097-_-0&kpid&store_code=2365&gclsrc=aw.ds&&k_clickID=go_1792806856_70815140298_346784426130_aud-299487635170:pla-382980496942_m_9011698&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1MXpBRDjARIsAHtdN-3cmFSDzNcZEhh27nOpikbuCqGMmONa4W3F1LnsQ4ZINlMCDc_Jgd4aAvv8EALw_wcB

You'd have to drill one small hole in the side so you can get power to the thermostat and run the freezer cord in to plug into the thermostat. Set the thermostat to your desired temp and it'll power the freezer on and off as needed. You might even be able to to just pinch the cords in the door gasket and not even have to drill a hole. As far as I can tell, no one has done this before. At least not since the last time I googled.

edit: I found this:. https://youtu.be/4GWbxagW-Sk

Remotec ZTS-500? Supports secure zwave. Works with Vera. Don't see why it wouldn't work with HomeSeer.

The Honeywell Lyric line of WiFi thermostats allows for multiple control from one app, not certain on copy/paste of settings though.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DS2KZSF

https://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-TH6320WF2003-Lyric-Thermostat-Conventional/dp/B01MUKUMEX

For what it's worth, I also have a Honeywell. I've not had any connectivity issues.

.o^O(1900ft/sq ^is ^small?)

Any chance you can have them run a few extra drops to wall plates on the ceilings? It's much more convenient and easier to handle for AP.

If not, what you're doing will work but you might consider moving AP a bit. Leave the wifi on your router on, and put the Ubiquity semi-centered in another part of the house. That way you have two AP working instead of just one. You can always add AP later and turn off the Wifi on the router, too. If you can post a floor plan or a basic layout it would be helpful.

There are lots of PoE switches on the market, the most cost-effective for you will probably be something like a 16 port that has 8 ports powered and 8 ports unpowered. There's no such thing (That I know of) of a PoE router, but even if there is you don't need it. PoE is a data-agnostic way to transfer power, so there's no "PoE-compatible", just does it transmit PoE or receive PoE.

No clue on the Eecobee thing.

---

Meta-help:

On Reddit you can make clicky text by surrounding the text you want to show with braces and the URL with parenthesis. Like this:

My Fancy Link

Creates

My Fancy Link

Also, if you want Amazon links that aren't terrible you can click the Share link on the Amazon page and copy out the short url.

So the large URL you have for the Eecobee looks like this now: https://amzn.com/B017S7DDWY or it can also just look like this.

Also also, if you Amazon regularly and you haven't yet, go to https://smile.amazon.com and set up Amazon Smile.

Also also also, good luck with your new home!

https://www.amazon.com/Lux-TX9600TS-Universal-Programmable-Thermostat/dp/B0044UYVFW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499881374&sr=8-1&keywords=lux+programmable+thermostat

I like it a lot. The 7-day programming is perfect for my work schedule (which changes day to day but not week to week.)

Why are you going with the Lenovo instead of the GH Hub? Are you wanting the camera feature? Third party devices aren't kept up to date as well as original devices but if you want the camera featue, the GH Hub isn't for you.

Google Mini, not Dot. Dot is Alexa :)

I have had 110% flawless, drama free operations with my TP-Link smart lights and TP-Link smart outlets. They require NO hub. They set up in seconds and work. YMMV but they don't just work "most of the time" or "pretty good" and I'm not "for the most part" happy. They work ALL of the time, perfectly and I'm extremely satisfied with their products.

I don't have a Nest thermostat. My goal wasn't to buy the "it" product of the moment and I wanted all my info on the screen without having to dial it in. I have this one and it has been almost flawless. The Honeywell servers have been down a couple of times in the year I've had it. But, as with other smart thermostats, you can still operate them manually if the service goes down temporarily.

Honeywell TH9320WF5003 WiFi 9000 Color Touchscreen Thermostat

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G4CIG7M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Can't offer any advice on the TV except to say I've read that Google's Chromecast is a better product than Roku. Have no idea tho.

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Or, you know, he could get a 110V thermostat.

https://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-Wi-Fi-Programmable-Touchscreen-Thermostat/dp/B00EP6C8UA

That looks amazing, I love fancy things to replace ordinary household items.

• My fancy, touchpad/NFC deadbolt.
  
• My Nest thermostat.
  
  Don't regret a dime of the nearly $500 those cost me.

Have you looked at the Ecobee 3 lite?

https://www.amazon.com/Ecobee3-Thermostat-Wi-Fi-Works-Amazon/dp/B01K48T09Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1481110668&sr=1-1&keywords=ecobee+lite

Or the Ecobee Smart Si?

https://www.amazon.com/ecobee-Thermostat-Heat-2-NON-Touch-Screen/dp/B008F40R4C/ref=sr_1_9?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1481110747&sr=1-9&keywords=ecobee

The iDevices thermostat is $65:https://www.amazon.com/iDevices-IDEV005AND5-Wi-Fi-Smart-Thermostat/dp/B019GQM6LY/ref=sr_1_4?crid=AMTZCU9X6PGX&keywords=idevices+thermostat&qid=1574176228&sprefix=idevices+%2Caps%2C205&sr=8-4

You can check if you turn off the temp settings

Or maybe I'm way overthinking this. This should work: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DFBXQGZ/

FYI

I've got one of these pieces of Chinese mystery manufacturing.

https://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Temperature-Controller-Electric-Thermostat/dp/B07DFBXQGZ/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=thermostatic+wireless+receptacle&qid=1569066213&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Put a big cheap box fan in a window blowing out, plugged into this, put the thermostat next to your bed (must have bed AND open windows) set it and it will hold that temperature like a champ. Best thing to come out of China since fireworks.

Venstar

It uses WiFi and had a local API. It does also have a couple service you can enable if you want.

I have this model and love it: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B011OFLOFY

Assuming the heater has a mechanical switch (so you can toggle it by toggling the power), a thermostatically controlled outlet (just an example, there are lots on the market) is probably the easiest solution. You could rig up something fancier, but it'd probably cost a lot more and not work any better.

Yup, the CT100 is pretty ugly - this is about as good as it gets and it's no Nest asthetic:


Remotec ZTS-500 Z-Wave Plus Smart Thermostat https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072JY98VG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Idz5Cb9AERK68

Venstar Thermostat, Built in Wi-Fi, Colortouch, Humidity Control, Works with Alexa
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011OFLOFY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_DGJ29rthODpgV

Cloud is optional. I went ahead and did it to get firmware updates easily. You can also do firmware updates from their desktop app if you prefer.

Ecobee3, 2nd Generation is what I have been using and it works really well. I love their dashboard and insights as well as the integration with homekit.

Lots of good expensive options. Here's the budget option. You're welcome.

Wireless Temperature Controller

Buy this transformer. I've used it for two Simplisafe doorbell cameras, works great.

24 Volt Transformer, C Wire... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MT5VWQN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Good news is you have the wiring in place for pretty much and standard wifi thermostat. bad news is the new thermostat you have isn't "standard".

Sounds like you want the remote wifi capability since its for a rental (and the "smart" won;t come into play as much since there will be less of a set pattern?)? I might suggest this thermostate. Cheaper than the brand name "smart" thermostats, but still has all the programming and wifi capabilities. Would work with your wiring also.

If you are looking at the Sensi Emerson at $120-$140 I would probably just go for the ecobee lite. I have the regular ecobee and it is pretty cool. It gives you all kinds of data and is really easy to program and their app is pretty good. Plus it's compatible with all smart home ecosystems.

It also comes with an adapter thing if you don't have a common wire. So you can install it either way.

This deadbolt lock was a huge help when you have your hands full or you want to go out w/o your keys: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AGK9L4U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I added these lights at the top and bottom of my stairs because my cat would lay across and i have a toddler: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LLIXJLC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These thermostats work really really well and are half the price of a nest. I love being able to adjust the temp remotely w/ my phone even if i'm just being lazy on the couch: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DS2KZSF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

On my master bathroom i added this LED toilet seat so i can see when i get up in the middle of the night w/o having to turn on the full light and cause night blindness again to try and get back to bed: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015OIH2TY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And the last one was an amazon dot w/ smart plug connected to the TV so i could turn it off after my kid wanders off or my hands are full when leaving the house i can just call out to alexa to "turn off tv".

One thing to beware of is some electrical issues in older housing. One example and then here's plenty more. This is still a "beta" device as far as I'm concerned, so be aware of what you are buying and what system you're installing it into.

why not just https://www.amazon.com/King-Electric-ATMOZ2-240-WIFI-Programmable-Thermostat/dp/B01MT3XG7V

You should be compatible with this Sensi Thermostat with no c-wire (but not the touchscreen model). It runs on AA batteries, so no c-wire is required.. unless it's a heat or cool only system, but it doesn't look like it is.

There are less expensive HomeKit thermostats.

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For example, the Emerson Sensi Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat

Or the iDevices IDEV005AND5 Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat

A budget of $4000-5000? That's a lot for me.

I'd suggest some Smart Bulbs or Smart Light Switches depending on a few factors.

If your room has a neutral wire or not (most smart switches require it except the Lutron Casetas).

If you want color (Most Smart LightBulbs do).

And if you enough electrical knowledge or not.

The Gosund Light Bulbs are great for the price based on reviews and price.

https://www.amazon.com/Multi-Color-Controlled-Compatible-Assistant-Equivalent/dp/B07G2CM96F/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=gosund&qid=1558588469&s=gateway&sprefix=gosund&sr=8-5

And for Light Switches. The Martin Jerry dimmable switches are great as well, I use them personally, pretty reliable for me.

https://www.amazon.com/Martin-Jerry-SmartLife-Dimming-Assistant/dp/B07FXYSVR1/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?keywords=martin+jerry&qid=1558588565&s=gateway&sr=8-6

If you are a homekit user, I don't know what to do for you.

Anyways.
Another thing I'd recommend is smart plugs, find out which devices would turn on automatically or go back to it's plugged state after being plugged in.

My personal recommendation for smart plugs would be the TanTan smart plugs, I also personally use them, found them in the Flea Market, 4 plugs for $10. If you could find them for the same amount and price, it's a go.

https://www.amazon.com/TanTan-Wireless-Required-Anywhere-Upgraded/dp/B071VYFJRL/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=tantan&qid=1558588840&s=gateway&sr=8-5

They even use the same app as the light devices I just mentioned!

Now for thermostats.

It really matters on what smart speaker system you're using.

Ecobee = Alexa compatible

https://www.amazon.com/ecobee-EB-STATE3LT-02-ecobee3-Smart-Thermostat/dp/B06W56TBLN/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=ecobee&qid=1558588938&s=gateway&sr=8-2

Nest = Google Assistant compatible

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/nest-thermostat-e-white/6051016.p?skuId=6051016


If you're a DIY guy...
The Sonoff switch is going to be perfect, it's only $5 at Sonoff's website anyways, but I can't find the buy page, so I'll put an amazon link instead.

https://www.amazon.com/Sonoff-Electrical-Household-Appliances-Compatible/dp/B07BDFDHX9/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=sonoff&qid=1558589310&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Last thing, is a smart speaker, there are so many different brands, but I'll just suggest 2 from different Assistant Platforms.

Alexa:

https://www.amazon.com/All-new-Echo-Dot-3rd-Gen/dp/B0792K2BK6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=amazon+echo&qid=1558589424&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Google Assistant:

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/google-home-mini-smart-speaker-with-google-assistant-chalk/6082194.p?skuId=6082194

Okay, that's just my long list of unnecessary suggestions, you don't have to take it, it's just the products i'd say to consider.

May not be a standard 24vac controlled furnace so need to verify what you have - may not be a C connection handy. Depending on the furnace you could also add a simple relay or fan control center there.

One simple solution can be to add a transformer near the thermostat.

The taxes will probably drown you out of the iDevices Thermostat with a base price of 108 euro...

https://www.amazon.com/iDevices-Thermostat-Enabled-HomeKit-Amazon/dp/B019GQM6LY

Cross-check where the wires come into your furnace/AC. If you're lucky, the wiring schematic will be by (or even in) your furnace.

Also, I would recommend http://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-RTH8580WF-Programmable-Touchscreen-Thermostats/dp/B00EP6C8UA/ref=lp_495354_1_13?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1415041551&sr=1-13

instead of the one you're looking at, especially for a heat-only system, unless
>Simple set-up with one touch weather and smart alerts

is a priority for you. I have the thermostat linked above - I have control over my system away from home, and saved $50.

God damn that looks sleek, in the mean time I Macgyvered this... thing... to a wall plug because I didn't feel like changing batteries every few months:

https://imgur.com/a/qYB7yQb


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SBN2N69/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_XnFLDbJ09Y8X3

When it's time to do a refresh of equipment I'll definitely take a look at AC Infinity

> Are you proposing any alternatives to the thermostat or just feel it's better to forgo the smart thermostat all together?

Take a look through this section: https://home-assistant.io/components/#climate

Out of those, the ones that won't be beholden to a third party continuing to maintain a 'cloud' service of some sort for the smart functionality to work (or in some cases, even modifying the schedules) are the Radio Thermostat ones and the Z-wave ones. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SYPSIRU/ would be a decent choice. Or the T50 from Radio Thermostat.

For Unifi it's REALLY easy. Set the Unifi controller up on something, your NAS or a Pi or even your desktop (note that any future config changes need to be made from this same controller, so the NAS or Pi is a better choice so it can just be left running 24/7). Then you adopt the APs and that's pretty much it. I love being able to manage my Unifi set up from their lovely phone app, too.

I believe it may be OEM'd by Honeywell. Looks kinda similar:

Honeywell TH9320WF5003 WiFi 9000 Color Touchscreen Thermostat, Works with Amazon Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G4CIG7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DbaOAbZC429FG

Quick clarification, please. Line voltage assumes 120v or 240v resistive electric heat, such as baseboard heaters. Would this be correct in your case?

There was a guy over at /r/homeautomation that used such a relay. He seemed happy with it.

Dumb question, but roll with me. What don't you like about the smart line voltage t-stats? Mysa, Stelpro, and King Electric?

https://www.amazon.com/Mysa-Thermostat-Electric-Baseboard-Heaters/dp/B075VBP42M/

https://www.amazon.com/Stelpro-ASMC402-Touchscreen-Thermostat-black/dp/B07KBRQM89

https://www.amazon.com/King-Electric-ATMOZ2-240-WIFI-Programmable-Thermostat/dp/B01MT3XG7V

I was looking at transformers. This one particularly: 24 Volt Transformer, C Wire Adapter Thermostats, Compatible with Ecobee

Until I came across a customer review with this picture and caption: This destroyed my Honeywell Lyric Thermostat

Would you be willing to share pictures of your ecobee setup with your transformers?