Heat pumps are a very efficient way of heating your home. They use electricity to heat the air in your house, providing you with a warm and comfortable atmosphere.
However, a heat pump does not heat the room instantly, and this can be inconvenient, especially if you want to adjust the temperature quickly.
An auxiliary heater is used for this purpose. It is heated by gas or oil and, in an emergency, can be connected to your home’s electrical outlet. You will need a thermostat for heat pumps that would let you control the temperature easily.
Picking the best thermostat for heat pump with auxiliary heat can be tricky, but don’t worry.
That’s what we’re here for! When you buy a heat pump (or convert an existing HVAC system to one), the national standard matches it with a programmable digital thermostat like the Nest.
But not everyone likes the Nest, and there may be better options for you. We’ve researched, so you don’t have to.
1. Honeywell TH6220D1028 Focuspro Programmable Thermostat
The Honeywell is an impressive thermostat with great features that is perfect for those on a budget.
You do not have to compromise on quality for affordability with the Honeywell.
The Honeywell is compatible with all kinds of heat pumps and can customize the indoor climate with ease.
In addition, the ‘total connect app’ enables you to use the thermostat with wireless internet on any device you want.
The thermostat has a five-year warranty on purchase. Honeywell has a multifarious high definition touchscreen which makes it easy for you to customize settings.
You will get frequent alerts asking you to change filters and such; such features help maintain your HVAC system clean. The thermostat also has an energy saver mode that uses power with care in a sustainable manner.
The Honeywell Thermostat has a seven-day compatibility period for you to integrate it with a touchscreen or WiFi connection.
It features an air circulate feature that turns the fan on and off at intervals. You can locate the outdoor temperature and humidity level on the Honeywell screen.
The only downside to the product is that you need a C wire for installation and a professional to help with the process. However, there are also cheaper options on the market that you can consider buying.
Main Features:
- Multifarious high definition touchscreen which makes it easy for you to customize settings
- Frequent alerts reminding you to change filters
- Energy saver mode
- Compatible with ‘Total connect app’
- Air circulate feature
- Seven day compatibility period
- Locate outdoor temperature and humidity level
Things We Like
- Good quality
- Budget-friendly
- Compatible with all heat pumps
- Can control through ‘total connect app.’
- Control on any device
Things We Don't Like
- C wire necessary
- Professional assistance for installation
- Cheaper options available
Final verdict:
The Honeywell is an excellent thermostat that is compatible with almost all heat pumps. You can fit it with your heat pump with auxiliary heat and regulate the indoor climate.
2. Nest Smart Thermostat 3rd Generation
The Nest smart thermostat 3rd Generation is an avant-garde model of the thermostat.
This model is built to promote easy use and interface while effectively using energy.
The standout feature on the Nest Thermostat 3rd Generation would be the Auto schedule which learns your preferred settings and customizes itself to the user within seven days.
This thermostat locates if people are home with its sensors and with the use of your phone’s location.
The Nest thermostat is built for energy optimization; this, in turn, reduces the cost of your bills and is also beneficial to the environment. You can control the Nest smart with your phone, tablet, and PC with a WiFi connection. Alexa can also control it.
The thermostat turns on when someone enters the room to display the time, temperature, and weather.
It also has a built-in alarm that notifies the users if there are any issues. You may also remove the auto-schedule feature and replace it with manual programming.
This is convenient as it can be tailored to all housemates’ expectations.
Main Features:
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
- Auto schedule
- Locates if people are home with its sensors and with the use of phone’s location
- Energy optimization
- The thermostat turns on when someone enters the room to display the time, temperature, and weather.
- Built-in alarm
- Available in four colors
- Energy-star certified
Things We Like
- High-tech model
- Good quality
- Saves energy
- Good for environment
- It cuts down the electrical bill
- Can control with devices using WiFi
- Voice control
Things We Don't Like
- Hard to use
- Auto schedule not suitable for all
Final verdict:
The Nest smart thermostat 3rd Generation is a futuristic thermostat that is an excellent choice for your heat pump with auxiliary heat.
3. Sensi Wi-Fi Thermostat
Emerson manufactures the Sensi WiFi Thermostat; it has been a popular choice among many households.
The thermostat is aware when you leave home and return and adjusts the temperature to make you comfortable.
The Sensi thermostat has been credited with being the Best Value Thermostat in 2018 by USA Today. This programmable thermostat has since become a household name.
The Sensi thermostat allows you to monitor and change settings to ensure the indoor climate suits your needs.
A major benefit of buying the Sensi is that it is easy to install, removing the need for a technician’s assistance. In addition, this thermostat is WiFi compatible, making it easy for you to control the device.
The thermostat is compatible with a heat pump with auxiliary heat. You may set the temperature for the hour, day, week, and even month.
You can get suitable temperatures for your home even if you are away. The thermostat is renowned for its ability to prevent excessive consumption of electricity.
Things We Like
- WiFi Access
- Low power consumption
- Quick and easy installation
- No C wire
Things We Don't Like
- Unstable WiFi connection
- Some features may be optimized only through apps
Final verdict:
The Sensi thermostat is a must-have, in our opinion. It is easily programmable and optimizes the power consumption to reduce your bill payment.
4. Honeywell RTH3100C1002/E1
The Honeywell RTH3100C1002/E1 takes on a traditional approach to a mechanical thermostat.
While it is essentially an electric model, it also combines mechanical functioning with its digital base.
The programming keys of the Honeywell Digital Heat/Cool Pump Thermostat are straightforward and uncomplicated, making it a popular choice for folks who do not want over-the-top programming options. You will find the display to be bright and easy to navigate.
Although the thermostat’s functioning is a traditional one, the aesthetic it projects is a modern design.
This particular thermostat is compatible with old and new models of heat pumps. You can get this thermostat for an affordable price.
You will find that there is no need to have any special wiring like the C wire – this ensures a smooth installation, avoiding the necessity of a technician.
A downside to the model would be that it is far too simple. Unlike many modern devices, this thermostat does not have WiFi connectivity or any advanced programming settings.
Main Features:
- Takes on a traditional approach
- Hybrid model
- Compatible with old and new heat pumps
- Push-button settings to customize temperature
- Backlit digital display
Things We Like
- Straightforward
- Easy to use
- Easy to install
- No C wire
- Compatibility
Things We Don't Like
- Basic programming
- No data on usage
- No WiFi connectivity
Final verdict:
The Honeywell RTH3100C1002/E1 is a simple and direct thermostat perfect for someone looking for an uncomplicated device. The thermostat is easy to install and use, having minimal settings.
5. Emerson 1F82-261 Programmable Thermostat
Emerson 1F82-261 is a simple and user-friendly thermostat that is loved by many.
You gain a seven-day programmable option that allows you to schedule indoor temperature for a week.
You may further program your Emerson 1F82-261 Thermostat to have different temperatures up to four times a day.
It works exceptionally well with heat pumps having auxiliary heat. Unfortunately, the thermostat is only compatible with stage one heaters. The approximate battery life for this device is two-plus years.
It has an easy-to-read and uses a display that comes with an LCD backlight. If you are uncomfortable with the color of the backlight you may customize it to suit your needs.
The thermostat has permanent retention, meaning you won’t have to program the device from scratch after a power cut.
Main Features:
- A seven-day programmable option that allows you to schedule indoor temperature for a week.
- Program different temperatures up to four times a day
- Compatible with stage one heaters
- LCD Backlight
- Data retention
Things We Like
- User friendly
- Schedule for the week
- Customize daily temperature
- Data retention
- Change the color of the backlight
Things We Don't Like
- Not compatible with 2 stage heat pumps
- No WiFi connection
- Lacks auto changeover
Final verdict:
The Emerson 1F82-261 is another uncomplemented yet sophisticated model. You have multiple programmable settings that allow you to customize it to your needs. The added advantage to this thermostat is the data retention feature it has.
Features Of The Best Thermostat For Heat Pump With Auxiliary Heat
1. Programmable vs. conventional
All modern thermostats can be programmed, so look beyond just the temperature control when choosing your model.
Some models also allow you to program in setback times, and many include automatic features.
2. Central vs. Zoned
The master bedroom temperature can be controlled separately from other rooms and house areas with a central thermostat.
In addition, the thermostat itself is remote from different regions of the house.
Zoned systems are much cheaper to operate than central heating systems because it reduces the amount of energy needed for your home’s average temperature throughout most of the year.
As a result, you could easily save some money on your energy bills.
3. Flexible scheduling
Most programmable thermostats give you the flexibility you need to meet your needs.
For example, you can set different programs for weekdays and weekends or customize it to want a room to be warmer or cooler during the day.
4. Programmable setback features
Some models offer a feature that allows you to program in a setback time, which means that you can set the temperature back a few degrees after turning on the heat or air conditioning.
This is great when you are sleeping or just in a room for an extended period and don’t want the system to change your comfort level constantly.
The setback feature allows you to automatically simulate daylight savings time by changing the programmed schedule when needed.
For example, if it’s getting dark earlier in the day, your thermostat can make it so that you need to set and reset the temperature an hour earlier than before.
5. Programmable holiday settings
Some models let you program in holidays or vacations, which means that when you’re not home, your system won’t run its schedule but rather saves energy by sitting idle until you return.
You can also set it to automatically run away settings when you’re home, like in the summer when the temperature is warmer outside than inside, and you may not need air conditioning.
Factors To Consider While Purchasing A Thermostat For An Auxilary Heat Pump
General Compatibility:
Most thermostats are compatible with heat pumps, but it is essential to know that some do not get along with heat pumps with auxiliary heat.
Confirm with the retailer that the thermostat you want to purchase is, in fact, compatible with your heat pump.
Works with auxiliary heat pump:
Some heat pump thermostats do not have an auxiliary heating function. Before you buy a thermostat, ensure that it will function on an auxiliary heat pump.
Technological abilities:
There are a variety of thermostats available to you with different levels of technological advancements.
You may choose a mechanical model or opt for a modern electronic model. Keep in mind that a more advanced model you choose will reflect on the cost of the thermostat.
Don’t forget to check out our top picks for Best Z-Wave Thermostats!