Honeywell Thermostat Compatibility Guide

Compatibility Guide OF 10 Most popular Honeywell Thermostats

Compatibility	T9	T9 with Sensors	Smart Color	T6 Pro	RTH9585WF	RTH6580WF	RTH7600D	RTH8580WF	TH3110D1008	TH6220D1028
Natural gas, oil	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Electric heating	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Single stage heating and/or cooling	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Single stage heating with two stages of cooling	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	✓
Two stages of heating with one stage of cooling	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	✓
Single stage heat pump with/without AUX heat	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	✓
Single speed fan	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Single stage heat pump with separate single stage furnace heating (Dual fuel)	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	✓	–	–
Single stage heat pump with separate two stage furnace heating (Dual fuel)	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	–	–	–	–
Two stage heat pump with/without AUX heat	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	✓	–	–
Two stage heat pump with separate two stage furnace heating (Dual fuel)	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	–	–	–	–
Humidifier or dehumidifier	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	–	–	–	–
Dual transformer systems	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	–	–	–	–
Two stages of cooling and two or three stage furnace heating	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	–	–	–	–
Two or three speed fan	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	–	–	–	–	–
PTAC systems	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–

The table above provides a comprehensive overview of the compatibility features for 10 popular Honeywell thermostat models. These models range from basic programmable thermostats to advanced smart home devices. Let’s break down the key features and what they mean for your HVAC system.

Basic Compatibility

All 10 models in our comparison are compatible with the most common HVAC setups:

• Natural gas and oil heating systems
• Electric heating systems
• Single stage heating and/or cooling
• Single speed fans

This means that regardless of which model you choose, it will likely work with standard residential HVAC systems.

Advanced Features

As we move into more sophisticated HVAC setups, we see a differentiation among the models:

1. Multi-Stage Heating and Cooling: Models like the T9, T9 with Sensors, Smart Color, T6 Pro, RTH9585WF, RTH6580WF, RTH7600D, and RTH8580WF support various combinations of multi-stage heating and cooling. This is particularly useful for homes with heat pumps or high-efficiency HVAC systems.
2. Heat Pumps and Auxiliary Heat: Most models support single-stage heat pumps with or without auxiliary heat. However, for two-stage heat pumps, you’ll want to look at the higher-end models like the T9, Smart Color, T6 Pro, or RTH9585WF.
3. Dual Fuel Systems: If you have a dual fuel system (typically a heat pump with a gas furnace backup), you’ll need one of the more advanced models. The T9, T9 with Sensors, Smart Color, T6 Pro, and RTH9585WF offer the most comprehensive support for these systems.
4. Humidity Control: For those in climates where humidity control is crucial, the T9, T9 with Sensors, Smart Color, T6 Pro, and RTH9585WF models support humidifier or dehumidifier integration.
5. Fan Speed Control: If your system has a multi-speed fan, you’ll need one of the top-tier models (T9, T9 with Sensors, Smart Color, T6 Pro, or RTH9585WF) to take full advantage of this feature.

Source: C Wire guide

Special Considerations

• Dual Transformer Systems: Only the highest-end models (T9, T9 with Sensors, Smart Color, T6 Pro, and RTH9585WF) support dual transformer systems. This is important for some complex HVAC setups that use separate transformers for heating and cooling.
• PTAC Systems: None of the residential models listed here are compatible with Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner (PTAC) systems, which are typically found in hotels and some apartments. Honeywell offers separate commercial solutions for these applications.

Choosing the Right Model

Based on the compatibility table, we can group the thermostats into three tiers:

1. High-End, Full-Feature Models: T9, T9 with Sensors, Smart Color, T6 Pro, and RTH9585WF
   • Best for: Complex HVAC systems, smart home integration, humidity control, and maximum flexibility
2. Mid-Range Models: RTH6580WF and RTH8580WF
   • Best for: Multi-stage systems and basic smart home features
3. Basic Models: RTH7600D, TH3110D1008, and TH6220D1028
   • Best for: Simple HVAC systems and users who prefer traditional programmable thermostats

Recommendations

1. For Maximum Compatibility: Choose the T9, T9 with Sensors, or Smart Color. These models offer the widest range of compatibility and features, making them future-proof for most residential HVAC systems.
2. For Smart Home on a Budget: Consider the RTH6580WF or RTH8580WF. They offer Wi-Fi connectivity and support for multi-stage systems at a more accessible price point.
3. For Simple Systems: If you have a basic HVAC system and don’t need smart home features, the RTH7600D, TH3110D1008, or TH6220D1028 will provide reliable temperature control without unnecessary complexity.
4. For Humidity Control: If you live in an area with humidity issues, prioritize models that support humidifier/dehumidifier integration, such as the T9 or Smart Color.
5. For Dual Fuel Systems: Stick with the high-end models (T9, Smart Color, T6 Pro, or RTH9585WF) to ensure proper management of your heat pump and furnace combination.

Conclusion

Honeywell offers a diverse range of thermostats to meet various HVAC system requirements and user preferences. By understanding your system’s needs and the features that matter most to you, you can select the perfect Honeywell thermostat to enhance your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Remember to consult with a professional HVAC technician if you’re unsure about your system’s compatibility or have complex installation requirements.