The best digital thermostats
Digital Thermostats – Buying Guide and Comparison in 2022
It is well known that heating equipment generates a high consumption of electrical energy, so having a digital thermostat would not hurt you to make constant measurements and not increase the amount of your monthly billing. But before making a hasty selection, you should check the compatibility between both devices, as well as the installation method, offered programming features and built-in accessories. In this way, you will acquire a device that suits your needs. The Nest T3010IT is modern and compact and has its own mobile app. Another good alternative is the Aube TH136 if you are looking for a discreet thermostat that has a programming system.
Opinions on the best digital thermostats
Perhaps you are one of the people who think that there is no difference between one digital thermostat and another, but it is important that you know that not all of them are compatible with the specifications of the different heaters. So, with the purpose of guiding you in such an important purchase, we have prepared a section with several devices that lead the recommendations.
Programmable digital thermostat
Nest T3010IT
Among the best digital thermostats of 2022 you will find this model developed by Nest, suitable for heating, fuel or condensing boilers, among other equipment. Its circular casing was made of steel, has dimensions of 8.4 x 3.2 x 8.4 centimeters and weighs 245 grams, being compact and lightweight.
The programmable digital thermostat, in the front area, has an LCD screen with a resolution of 480 pixels and 24 bits of color, which will allow you to enjoy an adequate visualization. For its power supply, it incorporates a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, so it is a wireless device.
Its operation is programmable through your smartphone, so you can adjust the temperature from anywhere. In addition, with the assistance mode you will save energy, since it records the routine of frequent use with the help of motion, temperature and light sensors. A mounting tool kit and a convenient two-meter-long USB cable are included in the purchase package.
Nest is a manufacturer that enjoys a long history and the trust of buyers, so it is not surprising that it is positioned in this opportunity as the best brand of digital thermostats.
Pros
Format: The structure of the thermostat has a compact format of 8.4 x 3.2 x 8.4 centimeters and weighs only 245 grams, being easy to handle.
Screen: The thermostat has an LCD screen, capable of offering a resolution of 480 pixels, together with 24 bits of color for better viewing.
Battery: As it is a wireless device, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery has been integrated into the structure.
Accessories: The manufacturer included a set of tools to facilitate the assembly process, a USB connection cable and an AC adapter.
Cons
Assist mode: Some people have complained about the thermostat assist mode restarting unexpectedly, deleting all programmed information.
Delta Dore 6053005
Delta Dore’s digital programmable thermostat has a simple and unobtrusive design. It is white so you can combine it and its dimensions are 8 x 3.5 x 10.4 centimeters with a weight of 134 grams. These measures will allow you to handle it easily when you go to install it to avoid complications.
It has an LCD screen and high contrast so you can read the temperature information without problems. Your system consists of a customizable program per day, as well as two temperature levels: comfort and economy. The latter will allow you to save on electricity, since it tells the equipment to work at a relatively low level.
And the antifreeze mode will prevent the activated temperature from negatively affecting the connections and pipes in combination with the outside temperature.
By evaluating the pros and cons of a model, you can more easily determine if it will be useful to you and here are the Delta Dore thermostat:
Pros
Design: It is a digital thermostat with a simple design that you can place discreetly if you wish so as not to affect your decoration.
Programming: It offers customizable programming systems that will save you work when using heating or air conditioning.
Batteries: Requires two AAA batteries to operate and are included with product purchase.
Cons
Manual: Apparently, the instruction manual is not very explanatory regarding the configuration of the thermostat.
Minutes: You cannot program the thermostat for minute intervals.
Digital heating thermostat
Aube TH136
If what you want is a discreet digital heating thermostat, with good finishes and an elegant design, consider the TH136 model. This equipment has dimensions of 8.3 x 7.8 x 2.5 centimeters and its weight is 118 grams. Its edges are cream, while the central line where the screen is located is gray.
Its screen is LCD type and has three dividers to indicate different data regarding the environment: the day and time, the temperature and the activated mode and, finally, the thermostat programming according to the day.
Its system is quite practical, since it allows you to program the equipment with an adjustment mode for four days and another for two days, thus helping you to save energy while you are on weekdays and weekends. Regarding its accuracy, the TH136 offers a range of +/- 0.1 °C.
The TH136 thermostat is a practical alternative, easy to use and programmable. Find out more details here:
Pros
Design: It has an elegant and discreet design with good finishes, so it will look good on your wall.
Schedule: You can customize it to fit the days you are usually home and the days you are not.
Accuracy: The team’s thermometer appears to be fairly accurate, having a range of +/- 0.1°C.
Cons
Memory: It does not have a memory system in its manual mode, so you will have to adjust the temperature every time.
Hours: It seems that it cannot be programmed by hours but by time slots.
Electro DH 11805
Electro DH offers you a practical digital heating thermostat. The device is white, has a screen to display basic information and its dimensions are 21.8 x 18.2 x 3.6 centimeters with a weight of 281 grams.
This equipment has two programming modes to activate a certain temperature: CT or comfort mode and ET or night mode. In both cases, the thermostat will analyze the ambient temperature and adjust the heating or air conditioning accordingly.
You can program it for the whole week and, also, 24 hours a day, so that you can feel comfortable at home at all times avoiding discomfort due to cold or heat.
It is equipped with a highly accurate temperature sensor that helps you determine settings. On the other hand, it should be noted that it has an operating range of a minimum of 5 °C and a maximum of 30 °C.
If you would like to install a thermostat with programming freedom, take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of the 11805 model:
Pros
Programming: The most striking thing is that you can program it for the whole week and at any time of the day.
Modes: Or you could also choose their default modes according to their sensor: comfort or night.
Sensor: Thanks to its high-precision temperature sensor, the thermostat can easily adjust the temperature.
Cons
Manual: It is commented that the instruction manual has errors regarding the installation instructions.
Size: Consider that it is bigger than others and also heavier.
Siemens Digital Thermostat
SIEMENS RDJ10RF
Among so many models, being able to recognize which is the best digital thermostat is not an easy task. For this reason, we recommend that you verify this equipment belonging to the Siemens catalog, which stands out in the market for its wireless, compact and programmable design.
This thermostat consists of two units, one of them being a receiver that needs to be connected to an alternating current source and is directly linked to the heating device. For its part, the transmission module is powered by a pair of alkaline batteries and incorporates a desktop base, so you can support it more safely.
The backlight display is spacious and the digits of the recorded data are easy to read, the front button rotates smoothly to adjust the temperature between 5 or 30 ° C and the on – off button slides horizontally. In addition, it incorporates three work modes such as standby, manual and automatic.
This Siemens digital thermostat, apart from having an attractive aesthetic, also offers a wide range of functions that will clear up any existing doubts about which digital thermostat to buy. Here are its pros and cons.
Pros
Design: The equipment is made up of a receiver module and a transmission module. Both offer resistance and a pleasant stay.
Screen: The device incorporates a large LCD screen with backlighting, which will allow you to monitor the programming of the functions quickly and easily.
Temperature: The temperature can be adjusted from 5 to 30 °C by simply turning the central button, making it an intuitive procedure.
Operation: Among the work modes available for the operation of the thermostat are automated, manual, saver or standby mode.
Cons
Instruction manual: Since the instruction manual does not have a translation into Spanish, the recommendation is to look for a tutorial to avoid inconveniences when installing and programming it.
Orkli digital thermostat
Orkli RA200
The Orkli digital thermostat can be a very attractive option for those who prefer a minimalist style that is as discreet as possible. This equipment has a square structure of 7.3 x 7.3 x 2.8 centimeters, so you can place it without being too noticeable. Also, it is light gray in color.
It has an integrated segment LCD screen where the ambient temperature is shown, which can be regulated through a knob in an interval of a minimum of 10 °C and a maximum of 30 °C.
Regarding operating temperatures, the thermostat can withstand a minimum of 0 °C and a maximum of 50 °C, giving you freedom of use so that you can install it where it is most comfortable for you.
It uses two AA batteries included with the purchase of the device, as well as a small accessory pack for the installation of the thermostat to your home system.
Orkli’s model has eye-catching features that are very useful for managing your home’s heating or cooling systems. Learn more about them below:
Pros
Design: The Orkli RA200 thermostat is elegant and has a neutral color so you can combine it without attracting too much attention.
Management: It is easily managed through a knob to adjust the temperature, very useful for the elderly.
Accessories: Batteries and screws are included with the purchase of the thermostat.
Cons
Scheduling: You cannot schedule custom modes for certain days or times.
Information: Your screen only shows the ambient temperature.
Honeywell Digital Thermostat
Honeywell Home DT2
This is a Honeywell Digital Thermostat with a white casing and a sleek design line featuring detailed finishes. In addition, it is capable of low power consumption, so the pair of AA alkaline batteries required for its power supply offer a long life, which according to the manufacturer can reach an average of two years.
The equipment has been provided with a mounting base that makes it easy to carry out this task on the wall. Also, this thermostat has a spacious display with easy-to-read digits and an intuitive interface.
On the left side there is a small control panel made up of four buttons, turn on – turn off the equipment, adjust the “Eco” mode (for significant energy savings), or choose the “Standby” mode, which prevents frost. Likewise, you can adjust values associated with the temperature and duration of the cycles to be customized.
This is a digital thermostat with a minimalist design and an intuitive interface, whose pros and cons you can review right away.
Pros
Digits: You will be able to monitor the values displayed just by glancing at the screen, due to the large size of the digits.
Control: You will have an intuitive method of use, thanks to its duly identified control buttons.
Eco mode: By activating the “Eco” mode you save energy, because the temperature increases and decreases in a programmed way.
Power consumption: Its low power consumption prolongs the useful life of the batteries.
Cons
Programming: The heating or cooling range is not programmable, so you will have to adjust it manually.
Wireless digital thermostat
Netatmo NTH01-ES-EC
This product with the Netatmo quality seal has been rated as the best digital thermostat, since both its operation and structure were conceived under strict quality standards.
The design of the structure is square, it measures 8.3 x 4.6 x 8.3 centimeters and weighs only 404 grams, making it easy to install heating equipment.
Its maximum power level is 120 watts, the connection voltage for alternating current corresponds to 250 volts and the electric current is 4 amps. In addition, to be started it requires three AAA alkaline batteries included.
A peculiarity of this wireless digital thermostat is that it allows you to save up to 37% energy, since it records your routine of use, heating the spaces only when necessary. Likewise, the programmable voice and remote control mode stands out from the comfort of your smartphone, tablet or computer.
To have the best digital thermostat of the moment at hand, you will need a model with intuitive operation, simple assembly and a compact housing. So we summarize the pros and cons of a model that competes to be the most recommended.
Pros
Format: It is a digital thermostat with a compact design, whose measurements correspond to 8.3 x 4.6 x 8.3 centimeters.
Functions: It has important functions, such as voice and remote control mode from the comfort of your smartphone, tablet or computer.
Energy saving: The device incorporates a function that memorizes the routine of use of the heater, allowing to save up to a total of 37% of energy.
Batteries: For its power supply, the device requires three AAA alkaline batteries, included with the purchase.
Cons
Regulator: When reviewing the purchase portals, a comment regarding the low quality of the regulator is obvious, since after a couple of months of use it stopped working.
Digital programmable heating thermostat
MoesGo Smart
MoesGo is a brand with a good reputation in the electronic equipment market, which this time surprises its followers with a digital programmable heating thermostat, provided with cutting-edge technology to improve the user experience inside the home.
This product has a pleasant aesthetic, in which a white casing with well-crafted finishes and a pleasant touch stand out, while the LCD screen has large digits and backlighting, which allows quick viewing both during the day and at night.
On the other hand, this thermostat incorporates a small control panel so you can program its operation manually. Likewise, it is possible to activate the Wi-Fi wireless network and, through any smartphone, access apps such as Alexa, Tuya, Google Home or Smart Life. In this way, the timer and the desired heating routines can be set for all rooms.
This is a digital thermostat with advanced technology, with advantages and disadvantages that will catch your attention quickly.
Pros
Programming: Thanks to the WiFi connection, you can program the thermostat from your smartphone or manually.
Interface: Its intuitive interface allows quick handling of the thermostat.
Multichannel control: Being a multichannel team, you will not have any limitations to add several rooms to the programming.
Power off protection: Data such as time, language and date can be kept on the equipment due to power off protection.
Cons
Margin of error: You should be aware that this device could have a margin of error of up to 0.5 °C.
Guide to buying a digital thermostat
There are some features that, if you evaluate them before buying the thermostat, could save you inconvenience or compatibility problems. If you want to know what aspects you should consider to make the most of your money, we invite you to review this guide.
Shopping guide
Thermostat Design
When reviewing any guide to buying the best digital thermostat, design is one of the first features to consider. When you go looking for a thermostat for your heating, air conditioning or water heater system, take into account aspects such as its size and weight, since this device is usually installed in plain sight. Therefore, it is advisable to choose a thermostat that is compact, easy to handle and, if possible, discreet so that it does not affect the decoration in your home.
Likewise, also take into consideration the distribution of your control panel. What direct action buttons does it have, the manufacturing materials of the casing, the screen, backlight systems or visual and sound indicators, among others. By knowing all these details, it will be easier for you to choose which one to buy.
System Compatibility
Another aspect mentioned as relevant in a comparison of digital thermostats is the compatibility of the equipment with the system. Before purchasing any model, you must make sure that it is the right one to meet your needs. Keep in mind that some thermostats have components specially designed to work with a specific system, whether it’s cooling or heating.
Therefore, if you want to avoid performance problems or not being able to enjoy all the benefits of the thermostat, first verify that it is fully compatible with your current system.
Installation requirements
For some users, the issue of installation is of great relevance. Digital thermostats usually have a fairly similar procedure to be installed, based on the steps of placing the base, connecting the poles and reinstalling the mask.
However, to be able to choose a practical thermostat, check its structural design to know how many holes you will have to drill in your wall to install it. Not all users like the idea of modifying a framework and if you want to avoid this, installation requirements are a key part to consider.
Thermostat functions
Although thermostats, whether analog or digital, are basically designed to help you adjust the temperature of your heating or air conditioning systems in your home, there are alternatives on the market that can offer much more than that and, although this influences how much it costs, in the same way you can find an economical and multifunctional model if you look carefully.
Among the functions that a good quality thermostat could offer you is personalized programming, with which you can adjust the room temperature so that the thermostat, using its thermometer, keeps the temperature regulated for your comfort.
Others can connect to the wireless network and offer you remote control of their functions, which is quite useful if you want to get home and find yourself in a more pleasant and pleasant environment.
Power source
Another relevant point that you can consider is the energy source with which the thermostat works. The model you buy may have a port to connect it directly to the current, which are cheaper to use since you do not have to be replacing the batteries, but the ones that are most available on the market are, precisely, the models that work with batteries.
These models have the disadvantage that you will need to replace worn units from time to time, but if your thermostat allows it, you could use rechargeable batteries to save money or also disable the backlight system, as it can consume a considerable amount of energy.
Thermostat Maintenance
Finally, try not to overlook the maintenance of the thermostat and its useful life. As you know, any electronic equipment has a certain useful life, but if you want to extend the life of your digital thermostat, you can take some actions that will help you with that purpose.
One of them is to disable the screen backlight. This will increase the autonomy of the battery and, therefore, you will not have to be removing the mask as often to replace it.
You can also avoid handling it directly if possible. If your thermostat is wireless and you can change settings through the app, do so. This will help keep the buttons looking new and keep the thermostat housing from getting stained from constant handling.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Can I use digital thermostat for electric water heater?
Yes, in fact, there are already electric water heaters that come with integrated digital thermostats. With them you can adjust parameters such as the temperature of the water, the power of the resistance and even a schedule of use for the equipment.
Q2: How to repair digital thermostat?
If you notice that your thermostat starts showing errors on the screen, you can reset it. To do this, most have a hidden button under the outer shell. Carefully remove it by either applying pressure or unscrewing it to expose the screen and locate the reset button. Press it until the thermostat turns off and on again and check that everything is in order.
In the event that the malfunction is due to the ambient temperature as such, here you would have to check the electrical panel of the connection and check if any component or fuse has been damaged to replace it.
Q3: How to connect heating digital thermostat?
In order to install a new digital thermostat at home, you must already have the electrical connections along with the cables that will handle the electrical heating system. The first thing you should do is place the base of the thermostat on the wall, letting the cables stick out through the corresponding holes. Mark the fastening screw holes with a marker and look for a drill.
With the tool, open the holes and put a support. Put the base back on and fasten with the screws. Connect the wires to the corresponding points, again securing them with their retaining screws. Put the lid on and check that everything is working properly.
Q4: Can I make a digital thermostat with Arduino?
Yes, but you will need a couple of special electronic components, such as an LCD screen to see the temperature, an NTC thermometer to measure the ambient temperature, among other elements such as wiring, soldering iron, etc. If you do not have knowledge of electronics and computers, it may be too complicated for you, because you must be able to program the Arduino so that, connected to the screen and the sensors, it shows the correct information.
On the other hand, it is a project that requires patience and time, since multiple small welds must be made and for this it is advisable to have previous experience.
Q5: What improvement does a digital day and night thermostat bring?
If you purchased a thermostat with customizable programs, this could help you save on electricity. During the day, people usually work and are not at home, so keeping the heating or air conditioning on permanently can lead to significant expenses. With a digital thermostat you can program the systems to activate at a certain time and thus not waste electricity when no one is home.
Q6: Which is better, digital or analog thermostat?
Although analog thermostats have been used for many years, the arrival of digital models has left them a bit behind. The latter usually incorporate screens that show much more information than analog equipment, being more practical and easy to use.
On the other hand, it is also highlighted that digital thermostats are more precise and, depending on the model, you could install one that offers performance programs or customizable programs that will help you reduce excessive consumption of electricity at home. For example, you could set the thermostat to turn on the boiler half an hour before you get home so it doesn’t stay on all day or you have to turn it on when you arrive.
Q7: Can digital refrigerator thermostat be installed?
To do this you must first disconnect the refrigerator from the power and remove all the food to work more comfortably. It is also recommended to remove trays and shelves to make room. Locate the old thermostat on your computer and remove it by removing the screws and disconnecting the wires from the poles.
Now take your new thermostat and remove the cover. Place it in the same place where the previous one was, thread the cables through the openings in the base and connect each one in its place, securing them with a screwdriver. Install the batteries in the helmet and put it in place. Turn on your fridge and check that the thermostat is working properly.
Q8: What is a WiFi digital thermostat for?
Digital thermostats with WiFi wireless connectivity are very practical, since they can be managed remotely, usually by downloading a specific application from the manufacturer.
These devices, being connected to the WiFi network, will allow you to check the environmental parameters of your home even when you are away from it. Also, depending on the model you choose, you can activate it at a certain time so that the temperature is at the right level for when you get home and you feel much more comfortable after a long day of work.
