Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This honeywell home smart color touchscreen thermostat review covers the RTH9585WF model. It is a Wi-Fi-enabled device with a 7-day programmable schedule. The unit features a bright color touchscreen for easy operation. You get flexible programming options that adapt to your daily routine or utility peak rates. The thermostat is Energy Star certified to help track heating and cooling usage. It connects to Alexa for voice control. The device measures 4.5 inches wide and 0.88 inches tall. It requires a C-wire for power. This model supports forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup. It does not work with electric baseboard heat systems.
What stands out
- Color touchscreen display for intuitive operation
- 7-day programmable scheduling for flexible control
- Wi-Fi connectivity with Alexa integration
- Energy Star certification with monthly usage reports
- Compatibility with forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this thermostat if you have a forced air, hot water, steam, or heat pump system with electric backup. It suits users who want a simple, bright interface with a color screen. The 7-day programming is ideal for those who need flexible scheduling. You will benefit from the Energy Star reports to track energy use. This model is also a good fit for homes with Alexa integration needs. Just ensure your system has a C-wire, as it is required for operation.
Who should skip it
Skip this model if you have electric baseboard heat (120-240V), as it is not compatible. You must have a C-wire available, since the device requires one for power. If you need control beyond Alexa, note that the data only lists Alexa compatibility. The thermostat is designed for specific HVAC types, so verify your system matches the supported categories. It is not suitable for line voltage applications outside the listed compatible systems. Check your wiring before purchasing to avoid installation issues.
Verdict: The Honeywell Home RTH9585WF offers a practical color touchscreen and 7-day programming for compatible HVAC systems. It is a solid choice for users with a C-wire and Alexa integration needs.
Key specs explained for this unit
Display Type: Color touchscreen
The interface uses a color screen rather than a monochrome display. This allows for clearer icons and easier reading in low light. You can navigate menus without guessing which button is which. The bright, intuitive layout simplifies daily adjustments. This feature is useful if you prefer visual clarity over basic text displays found in older models. It helps you see status changes at a glance.
Programmability: 7-day
You can set a unique schedule for each day of the week. This supports varied routines where weekday and weekend activities differ significantly. You do not need to repeat the same settings for Monday through Friday. This flexibility helps optimize comfort and efficiency for complex lifestyles. Compare this with 5-1-1 models that offer less granular control. It suits households with shifting daily patterns.
Wiring Requirement: C-wire required
This device needs a common wire for continuous power. You must check your existing thermostat wiring before installation. If your home lacks a C-wire, you may need to install an adapter or hire an electrician. This requirement ensures stable operation for Wi-Fi features. Many older systems do not have this wire. Verify your compatibility to avoid installation delays or hardware incompatibility issues.
System Compatibility: Forced air, hot water, steam, heat pumps
The thermostat works with most central heating and cooling systems. It supports forced air, hydronic, steam, and heat pump setups. It does not work with electric baseboard heat. You must confirm your system type matches these categories. This broad compatibility makes it suitable for many homes. Check your furnace or air handler type to ensure proper function. It is not a universal fit for all heating methods.
Design and build specifications
According to the listing, the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF measures 4.5 inches wide, 3.5 inches long, and 0.88 inches thick. The unit weighs 14.4 ounces. It comes in a gray finish, with white also available as a variation. These dimensions suggest a standard wall-mount footprint that fits most residential HVAC setups without overwhelming the space. The compact depth allows it to sit flush against the wall, reducing the risk of accidental bumps or damage in high-traffic areas.
The device features a color touchscreen interface. This display type replaces physical buttons with a digital control surface. The listing describes the screen as bright and easy to read, which aids operation in various lighting conditions. You navigate settings through touch inputs rather than mechanical switches. This layout simplifies programming for 7-day schedules and adjusts to your daily routine or utility peak rate pricing.
The thermostat is compatible with forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup. It does not work with electric baseboard heat. A C-wire is required for power. This wiring requirement means you must check your existing setup before installation. The gray plastic housing is designed to blend with modern decor. The color touchscreen allows personalization to match your interior style. These build choices prioritize functionality and visual integration over decorative complexity.
Setup and everyday use guide
Setting up this thermostat requires a C-wire for power. You must check your home’s wiring before installation. The device does not work with electric baseboard heat systems operating at 120 to 240 volts. It supports forced air systems using gas, oil, or electric heat. It also works with hot water, steam, and heat pumps that include electric backup. You should verify compatibility with your specific HVAC setup to ensure proper function. Once installed, the bright color touchscreen allows for intuitive operation. You can navigate menus easily thanks to the clear display. The unit offers 7-day programmable scheduling. This gives you flexible options to match your daily routine. You can also adjust settings to align with your utility company’s peak rate pricing. The thermostat connects via Wi-Fi. It is compatible with Alexa for voice control. You can track your heating and cooling usage through monthly energy reports. The Energy Star certification indicates it helps save energy. You may also qualify for rebates from your energy provider. Some customers can enroll in demand response programs. These programs allow utilities to slightly adjust temperature settings during high energy demand. You receive rewards for participating in these programs. The interface is designed for simple, everyday use. You do not need complex tools to manage your schedule. The color screen makes reading current settings straightforward. You can personalize the look to fit your décor. The gray finish is standard, though white is available as an option. This setup process ensures the thermostat integrates smoothly into your home’s heating and cooling system.
Check Compatibility And Wiring First
Before you buy, confirm your HVAC system is compatible. This unit supports forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup. It does not work with electric baseboard heat. You must have a C-wire for power. Check your wiring first. If you lack a C-wire, you may need an adapter. The thermostat integrates with Alexa for voice control. You can program schedules for seven days. Energy Star certification helps track usage. Monthly reports show your heating and cooling data. Utility demand response programs may offer rewards. These programs allow slight temperature adjustments during peak demand. This model fits well if you want a color screen and Wi-Fi. It suits users who prefer flexible scheduling. It is a practical choice for standard systems. Avoid it if you have line voltage baseboard heat. Ensure your home has the required wiring. This guide compares 1 options. This unit is one of them. It offers clear specs for your decision.
Check before you buy
- Verify your HVAC system is forced air, hot water, steam, or heat pump.
- Confirm you have a C-wire for power before purchasing.
- Ensure you do not have electric baseboard heat systems.
- Check if your utility offers demand response program rewards.
The product at a glance
Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat
Best for: homes with C-wires and Alexa ecosystems
- System Compatibility
- Forced air, hot water, steam, heat pumps
- Wiring Requirement
- C-wire required
- Smart Home Compatibility
- Alexa
- Programmability
- 7-day
- Display Type
- Color touchscreen
- Certification
- Energy Star Certified
View on Amazon: Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat Affiliate link
This Honeywell Home thermostat features a color touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control via Alexa. It supports 7-day programming and works with forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pump systems. You need a C-wire for installation. It is Energy Star certified and includes monthly energy reports. This unit suits homes with compatible HVAC systems and users who want a bright display and flexible scheduling options.
Pros
- Color touchscreen for easy reading
- Wi-Fi connectivity with Alexa support
- 7-day programmable scheduling
- Energy Star certified with usage reports
Cons
- Requires a C-wire for power
- Does not work with electric baseboard heat
- Limited smart home compatibility to Alexa only
Good fit if
- You have a compatible forced air or heat pump system
- You need a C-wire for thermostat power
- You want a color display for clear visibility
Skip if
- You have electric baseboard heating (120-240V)
- You do not have a C-wire available
- You require Google Home or Apple HomeKit support
Verdict: Honeywell Home RTH9585WF Wi-Fi Thermostat is a solid choice for users with compatible HVAC systems who need a C-wire and prefer a bright color display with basic Alexa integration. It fits homes where 7-day programming and energy tracking are priorities over multi-platform smart home control.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Honeywell Home Smart Color Touchscreen Thermostat |
|---|---|
| System Compatibility | Forced air, hot water, steam, heat pumps |
| Wiring Requirement | C-wire required |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Alexa |
| Programmability | 7-day |
| Display Type | Color touchscreen |
| Certification | Energy Star Certified |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Dimensions | 3.5 × 4.5 × 0.88 inches |
| Weight | 14.4 ounces |
| Size | 1 (Pack of 2) |
| Color | Gray |
| Model | RTH9585WF1004/W |
Frequently asked questions
Does this thermostat work with Google Home?
No, the specifications list only Alexa compatibility. It does not mention support for Google Assistant or Apple HomeKit. If you rely on Google Home for voice control, this device may not fit your ecosystem. You should verify your smart home platform before purchasing. The unit is designed primarily for Alexa users.
Is a C-wire necessary for installation?
Yes, a C-wire is required for power. The product data explicitly states this wiring requirement. You cannot use this model without a common wire. Check your existing HVAC wiring before installation. If your system lacks a C-wire, you may need to install one or choose a different thermostat model.
What is the size of the display?
The unit measures 4.5 inches wide, 3.5 inches long, and 0.88 inches thick. It features a color touchscreen interface. The screen provides a bright display for easy reading. These dimensions allow it to fit standard wall plates. The gray finish helps it blend into most home decors.
Can I program schedules for the whole week?
Yes, the thermostat supports 7-day programming. You can set different schedules for each day of the week. This feature allows for flexible temperature control based on your routine. The programmable nature helps you manage heating and cooling efficiently. You do not need to adjust settings daily.
Does it connect to Wi-Fi?
Yes, the device includes Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature allows you to control the thermostat remotely via a smartphone app. You can adjust temperatures from anywhere with an internet connection. The Wi-Fi capability is essential for smart home integration and remote monitoring.
Is this thermostat Energy Star certified?
Yes, the Honeywell Home RTH9585WF is Energy Star certified. This certification indicates it meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. Using an Energy Star certified device can help you reduce energy consumption. It is a reliable choice for homeowners looking to improve efficiency.
What HVAC systems are compatible?
It supports line voltage systems, including forced air, hot water, steam, and heat pumps with electric backup. It does not work with electric baseboard heat operating at 120 to 240 volts. You must confirm your system type before buying. Check your manual for specific compatibility details.