Choosing the best thermostats for heat pumps can significantly enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency.
Heat pumps are versatile systems that can provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat from the air outside into your home or vice versa. These devices not only allow you to control the temperature set in your home with precision but also adapt to the unique way heat pumps work to generate heat or cool your space.
Whether you’re interested in a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts heating or cooling automatically or a programmable thermostat that can be set to your daily routine, the right thermostat can make all the difference in optimizing your heat pump system.
With the right thermostat, you can ensure your heating and cooling is as efficient and comfortable as possible, making it an essential research step for anyone looking to buy or upgrade their heat pump thermostat.
Best Overall: Ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat
Ecobee3 Lite Smart’s sleek design and smart features offer an unmatched blend of style and functionality, making it a perfect addition to any modern home. Experience effortless control and energy savings in one compact package.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 4.05 in x 4.05 in x 0.84 in
- Display: 3.5″ Full-color LCD touchscreen
- Resolution: 320 x 480 pixels
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled
- Compatibility: Works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and more
- Programmable: Yes, with free iOS and Android apps
- Sensors: Supports remote sensors for temperature and occupancy
- Energy Savings: Save up to 23% annually on heating and cooling costs
Who Is It For?
The Ecobee3 Lite Smart Thermostat is ideal for homeowners who are aiming to enhance their home’s heating and cooling efficiency without compromising on convenience or style.
Whether you’re tech-savvy or new to smart home technology, its intuitive interface and easy setup make it accessible to all. Its compatibility with various smart home platforms ensures it seamlessly integrates into your existing ecosystem, offering control at your fingertips or through voice commands.
If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills while maintaining optimal comfort in your home, the Ecobee3 Lite is your go-to solution. Its support for remote sensors also means you can tailor your heating and cooling needs to different rooms, ensuring every corner of your home is just the right temperature.
Best Energy Saver: Google Nest Thermostat
The Google Nest Thermostat shines as a beacon of efficiency and simplicity. It’s not just a gadget; it’s your home’s energy-saving sidekick, designed to make temperature control both smart and effortless. With its sleek design and intuitive interface, it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to upgrade their home heating or cooling system.
Specifications:
- Compatibility: Works with 95% of heating and cooling systems.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled for remote control via the Nest app.
- Display: High-resolution color touchscreen.
- Learning Ability: Learns your schedule and adjusts heating/cooling.
- Energy Saving: Energy Star certified for efficient operation.
- Sensors: Temperature, humidity, proximity, and ambient light sensors.
- Installation: Easy DIY installation process.
- Design: Slim, modern design with multiple color options.
Who Is It For?
The Google Nest Thermostat is ideal for homeowners to streamline their heating and cooling needs. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just beginning to explore smart home technology, this thermostat is designed to simplify your life.
It’s perfect for those who appreciate the convenience of controlling their home’s temperature from anywhere, at any time, via a smartphone app. If you’re interested in reducing your energy bills and minimizing your environmental footprint, the Nest Thermostat’s energy-saving features and Energy Star certification make it a standout choice.
Its learning capability means it adapts to your schedule, ensuring your home is always at the perfect temperature when you need it to be, without wasting energy when you don’t.
For individuals or families looking to upgrade their home’s heating systems to a more efficient, programmable thermostat that can intelligently manage air source or ground source heat pumps, the Google Nest Thermostat offers a blend of performance, convenience, and savings.
Best For Voice Control: Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat
Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat designed to enhance your home’s efficiency and comfort. With its sleek design and advanced features, it’s the perfect addition to any smart home, offering unparalleled voice control capabilities. Let’s dive into what makes the Ecobee4 stand out.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 3.23″D x 7.56″W x 7.64″H
- Voice Control: Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, SmartThings, IFTTT
- Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz b/g/n
- Display Size: 3.5″
- Resolution: 320×480
- Sensors: Room, occupancy, humidity
- Compatibility: iOS, Android devices
- Energy Savings: Up to 23% on heating and cooling
Who Is It For?
The Ecobee4 Smart Thermostat is ideal for homeowners with a flair for technology and a desire for convenience and energy savings. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just beginning to explore smart home devices, the Ecobee4 offers an intuitive interface and easy integration with major smart home ecosystems.
Its voice control capabilities make it a standout choice for those who love the idea of adjusting their home’s temperature with just a simple command. Plus, with its energy-saving features, it’s perfect for environmentally conscious individuals looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on utility bills.
Best Premium: Google Nest Learning Thermostat
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat stands out as one of the best thermostats offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency. Its sleek design and intelligent features make it a premium choice for those seeking to upgrade their home’s heating and cooling system. With the ability to learn your preferences and adjust accordingly, it ensures comfort while optimizing energy use.
Specifications:
- Weight: 4.9 oz (139 g)
- Diameter: 3.3 in (8.4 cm)
- Depth: 1.07 in (2.72 cm)
- Display: 2.1″ (480 x 480) LCD
- Connectivity: Built-In 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi
- Compatibility: Works with most HVAC systems
- Features: Auto-Schedule, Farsight
- Energy Savings: Estimated average savings of $131 to $145 a year
Who Is It For?
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is ideal for homeowners who prioritize comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency. It’s perfect for those with heat pumps looking for the best thermostats to seamlessly integrate into their smart home ecosystem.
With its learning capabilities, it adapts to your temperature preferences, making manual adjustments a thing of the past. Whether you’re tech-savvy or simply seeking a device that can help cut down on energy bills, this thermostat is designed to meet your needs.
Its sleek design adds a touch of modernity to any home, making it a great fit for individuals who value both functionality and aesthetics.
If you’re in the market for a thermostat that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, the Google Nest Learning Thermostat is the premium choice for you.
Best Style: Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat
Experience a new level of comfort with the Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat, recognized as a premier selection among top-rated thermostats designed specifically for heat pumps. This smart device not only enhances your home’s heating and cooling efficiency but also offers convenience at your fingertips. Perfect for the modern homeowner seeking a blend of style and functionality, it’s a game-changer in managing your indoor climate.
Specifications:
- WiFi Specifications: 802.11b/g/n, 2.4GHz
- Product Size: 4.5 x 0.8 x 3.5 inches
- Color: Silver
- Programmable: Yes
- Touchscreen Display: Customizable color touchscreen
- Energy Star Certified: Yes
- Smart Response Technology: Yes
- Warranty: 1 Year
Who Is It For?
The Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat is ideal for homeowners who value both efficiency and style in their heating systems. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your heat pump work or integrate smart home technology, this thermostat fits seamlessly.
It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate the convenience of controlling their heating or cooling from anywhere.
If you’re someone who enjoys a customizable, energy-efficient home environment and wants to save on utility bills while keeping your space at the perfect temperature, the Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostat is for you.
Its user-friendly interface and programmable features make it a great choice for busy families, tech enthusiasts, and environmentally conscious individuals alike.
Best Simple Setup: Honeywell Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat
Honeywell Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat is designed for effortless control and energy savings. Its user-friendly interface and Wi-Fi connectivity make adjusting your home’s temperature a breeze, anytime, anywhere. Perfect for busy households, this thermostat combines convenience with efficiency, ensuring your comfort in every season.
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n, 2.4GHz
- Dimensions: 3.5″ x 5.875″ x 1.5″
- Display: Large digital screen
- Programmable: 7-day scheduling
- Temperature Accuracy: +/- 1 degree Fahrenheit
- Control: Permanent/temporary hold settings
- Compatibility: Works with most heat pump systems
- Installation: Easy setup with guided instructions
Who Is It For?
The Honeywell Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat is ideal for homeowners seeking a blend of convenience and efficiency. It’s perfect for those who want to manage their heating and cooling systems remotely without the hassle of complicated setups.
Its easy programming and energy-saving features make it suitable for busy families, tech enthusiasts, and environmentally conscious individuals alike. If you’re after a thermostat that combines smart technology with user-friendly design, the Honeywell Wi-Fi Programmable Thermostat is the way to go.
Best Budget: Emerson Programmable Thermostat
The Emerson Programmable Thermostat combines efficiency with simplicity, making it the perfect budget-friendly choice for your home. Its user-friendly interface and programmable features ensure your living space remains comfortable year-round, without breaking the bank. Ideal for anyone seeking a blend of affordability and functionality.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 3.75″ H x 6.00″ W x 1.15″ D
- Compatibility: Universal – Single-Stage, Multi-Stage, or Heat Pump
- Power Source: Battery or Hardwire
- Operating Humidity: 0%-90% RH non-condensing max
- Voltage: 20-30 Vac, NEC Class II, 50/60Hz
- Terminal Load: 1.5 Amps per terminal, 2.5 Amps maximum (all terminals combined)
- Heat Differential: Fast 0.5°F, Medium
- Cool Differential: Fast 0.9°F, Medium
Who Is It For?
Emerson Programmable Thermostat is ideal for homeowners looking for thermostats for heat pumps without the high price tag. Whether you’re tech-savvy or prefer simplicity, this thermostat’s straightforward programming and easy-to-use interface make it suitable for anyone.
It’s perfect for those who appreciate energy efficiency and comfort but don’t need the complex features of more expensive smart thermostats. If you’re on a budget and want to maintain a comfortable home environment with ease, the Emerson Programmable Thermostat is for you.
Best For Alexa: Amazon Smart Thermostat
Dive into the world of comfort with the Amazon Smart Thermostat is offering seamless integration with Alexa. This smart device not only enhances your home’s heating and cooling efficiency but also adapts to your lifestyle, making it easier to save energy without sacrificing comfort. Its sleek design and intuitive controls make it a standout choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home’s heating system.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 3.56 x 3.56 x 0.84 inches
- Weight: 3.86 oz
- Compatibility: Requires a C-wire or power adapter
- Technology: Built with Honeywell Home Thermostat Technology
- Voice Control: Works with Alexa
- Energy Star Certified: Yes
- Installation: Compatible with most 24V HVAC systems
- Smart Features: Intelligent climate control with hunches and geofencing
Who Is It For?
The Amazon Smart Thermostat is aiming to enhance their home’s energy efficiency while enjoying the convenience of smart technology.
Whether you’re looking to generate heat more efficiently in the winter or want your air conditioners to run more effectively in the summer, this thermostat adjusts your home’s temperature set to your preferences. Its seamless integration with Alexa makes it ideal for those who love voice-controlled convenience, allowing for easy adjustments without lifting a finger.
If you’re in the market for a programmable thermostat that can intelligently manage your heating and cooling needs, making your heat pump work smarter, not harder, the Amazon Smart Thermostat is for you.
What I Wish I Knew Before I Got The Best Thermostats For Heat Pumps?
- Compatibility with Heat Pumps: Some of the thermostats for heat pumps offer advanced features like stage heating and cooling, which can significantly improve efficiency and comfort.
- Installation Complexity: While some of the thermostats for heat pumps are marketed as DIY-friendly, others may require professional installation, especially if your system has complex wiring or if you’re upgrading from a very old model.
- Smart Features and Learning Capabilities: Some smart thermostats learn your habits over time to optimize heating and cooling schedules.
- Integration with Home Automation Systems: Knowing whether the thermostat can work seamlessly with systems like Google Home or Amazon Alexa for voice control or if it requires a separate hub is essential.
- Remote Access and Control: Users appreciated the ability to control their thermostat remotely via a smartphone app.
- Energy Savings vs. Cost: While many are satisfied with the energy savings provided by their smart thermostat, some wish they had a clearer understanding of the upfront costs versus long-term savings.
What is the difference between a smart thermostat and a thermostat?
A smart thermostat, unlike a traditional thermostat, offers advanced features that cater specifically to optimizing the efficiency of heating systems.
It allows users to control the temperature set remotely via internet-connected devices, making it ideal for both air source and ground source heat pumps. This adaptability ensures your home maintains optimal comfort levels while maximizing energy savings, especially when managing the heating mode or cooling needs.
Moreover, smart thermostats can learn your preferences over time and adjust settings automatically to generate heat more efficiently or cool your space, making them a superior choice for anyone looking to upgrade their heat pump system.
Can you put a programmable thermostat on a heat pump?
Yes, you can install a programmable thermostat on a heat pump, and it’s a smart move for enhancing energy efficiency and comfort. When searching for the smart thermostats for heat pumps, it’s crucial to choose models designed to handle the unique cycling demands of heat pumps, especially those with auxiliary heating functions.
The best smart thermostats not only offer compatibility but also feature adaptive recovery/learning capabilities, ensuring your home reaches the desired temperature efficiently and economically.
These thermostats can significantly reduce energy consumption by adjusting temperatures according to your schedule, making them an excellent investment for heat pump owners looking to optimize their system’s performance and reduce utility bills.
Do I need a special thermostat for a heat pump?
Yes, when selecting a thermostat for a heat pump, it’s crucial to choose one specifically designed for this purpose to ensure efficient operation and comfort.
These are designed to handle the unique functions of a heat pump system, such as the ability to reverse the refrigeration cycle for heating or cooling and managing auxiliary heating in colder temperatures.
Smart thermostats, like the Ecobee and Nest, can optimize energy use and provide convenience through features like remote access and learning capabilities.
These thermostats can significantly enhance the efficiency of your heat pump, leading to potential savings on energy bills without compromising comfort.
