Are you tired of arguing with family members about the thermostat? Worried about expensive energy bills? Z-Wave thermostats can help! They allow you to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere, ensuring comfort and saving money.
And according to studies, these devices can save energy expenses by 30%. But with numerous options available, choosing the best one can be overwhelming.
Here’s what you need to Know:
- Temperature Control Range: Thermostats with a wide control range should be preferred. So, aim for a range between 40°F to 90°F (4°C to 32°C) for precise control over heating and cooling.
- Programming Capabilities: Advanced programmable thermostats let you set various temperatures at different times of day or zones in your home. Find models with intuitive interfaces for easy programming.
- Smart Features: Consider geofencing, learning capabilities, and voice assistant integration like Alexa or Google Assistant for added convenience.
Best Z wave Thermostat Table
| Best Z wave Thermostat | Display Size | Compatibility | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell T6 Pro Series Thermostat | 7 inches | Vera, SmartThings | Check On Amazon |
| Radio Z-Wave Thermostat | 5.5 inches | Amazon Alexa | Check On Amazon |
| GoControl Z-Wave Thermostat | --- | Nexia, Vera, Wink, SmartThings | Check On Amazon |
| Stelpro Z-Wave Thermostat | --- | Alexa for voice control | Check On Amazon |
| 2GIG Z-Wave 700 Thermostat | -- | Most HVAC systems and Z-Wave hubs | Check On Amazon |
Best Z wave Thermostat Reviews
1. Honeywell TH6320ZW2003 T6 Pro Series Thermostat
The Honeywell Thermostat is one of the best products in the smart home market for its simplicity and efficiency, streamlining home temperature control to perfection. Designed to learn your heating and cooling cycles, it optimizes your home’s climate for comfort and energy savings. The sleek, white finish and nearly 7-inch intuitive touchscreen display offer not just functionality but also a touch of elegance to your home’s decor. With its smart scheduling and remote control capabilities, managing your home’s temperature has never been easier or more convenient, ensuring your home is always welcoming.
The product boasts a strong wireless range and provides the option of battery-powered or hardwired operation, offering exceptional installation flexibility. Additionally, its compatibility with Vera and SmartThings seamlessly integrates it into your smart home system, supporting your energy-saving endeavors. Backed by a comprehensive 5-year warranty, Honeywell Home demonstrates its dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, making the T6 Pro a wise selection for homeowners seeking to elevate their smart home capabilities.
Specifications:
- Thermostat Type: Programmable, Digital, Low Voltage, Z-Wave
- Stages: Up to 3 Heat/2 Cool Heat Pump Systems, Up to 2 Heat/2 Cool Conventional Systems
- Program Modes: 7-Day, 5-1-1, and 5-2 Programmable
- Control Functions: Heating, Cooling
- Fan Function: On, Auto, Circulating
- Alerts and Reminders: Battery Replacement, Filter Change, Heat Pump Error, etc.
- Display Type: Touch Screen
- Energy Star Certified: Yes
- Warranty: 5 Years
Pros:
- Easy to use and install, enhancing user convenience.
- Remarkable compatibility and seamless integration into smart home systems.
- Impressive wireless range and remote control access for flexible operation.
Cons:
- Lacks automatic mode for seamless transition between heating and cooling.
2. Radio Z-Wave Thermostat
The Radio Thermostat redefines the standard for climate control in the modern home, blending sleek design with cutting-edge Z-Wave technology. This 7-day programmable thermostat, featuring intuitive touchscreen controls, offers unparalleled convenience and control over your heating and cooling systems. Its inclusion of a 300 series Z-Wave module not only ensures compatibility with a wide range of HVAC systems, including traditional furnaces and heat pumps, but also facilitates remote operation for energy savings and comfort.
Designed to operate on batteries, the CT32 is an ideal upgrade or replacement for homes without a common wire (C-wire) connection, eliminating installation hassles and promoting a cleaner setup. Its ability to control up to 2 stages of heat and cool, coupled with the flexibility to program up to 4 independent periods per day, allows for precise temperature management. Whether you’re at home or away, the CT32 ensures your space is always welcoming, optimizing energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Specifications:
- Controller Type: Amazon Alexa
- Special Feature: Programmable
- Specific Uses For Product: Heat Pump
- Programmable: 7-day with touchscreen controls
- Z-Wave Module: Includes 300 series
- Stages: Controls up to 2 stages of heat and 2 stages of cool
- Battery Operated: Yes, eliminates the need for C-wire
- Compatibility: Works with nearly any HVAC system
- Display: Touch Screen Display
Pros:
- Touchscreen controls offer easy programming and adjustments.
- Battery operation facilitates easy installation without the need for C-wire.
- Compatibility with a broad range of HVAC systems including heat pumps.
Cons:
- Some connectivity issues, affecting remote management.
3. GoControl Z-Wave Thermostat
The GoControl Smart Thermostat represents a leap forward in home climate control technology, integrating seamlessly with Alexa for voice commands and supporting a wide array of Z-Wave compatible hubs. This thermostat is designed to work with virtually any contemporary central HVAC system, whether it’s a standard setup or a heat pump configuration, making it a versatile choice for both retrofit and new construction projects. Its Z-Wave Version 4.5.5 compatibility ensures it can function as a core part of your smart home, providing ease of use and efficient energy management.
Installation is straightforward, thanks to its compatibility with both wall mount and single-gang junction box setups. The GoControl Smart Thermostat also stands out for its ability to be powered either by batteries for full wireless operation or via the HVAC system’s 24VAC C-wire, offering flexibility in installation and use. With its comprehensive feature set, including support for 2-stage heat and cool systems and a USB port for firmware upgrades, this thermostat is built to offer both convenience and reliability.
Specifications:
- Controller Type: Nexia, Vera, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings
- Specific Uses For Product: Heat Pump
- Z-Wave Compatible: Yes, Version 4.5.5
- Supports: 2-stage Heat & 2-stage Cool, USB firmware upgrade
- Power: Battery or HVAC system’s 24VAC C-wire
- Installation: Wall mount or single-gang junction box
Pros:
- Offers voice control via Alexa, enhancing user convenience.
- Versatile compatibility with most central HVAC systems.
- Flexible installation options with both battery and C-wire power.
Cons:
- Some issues with performance and connectivity.
4. Stelpro Z-Wave Plus KI STZW402WB+ Thermostat
The Stelpro Thermostat emerges as the first of its kind in North America, specifically designed to work with line voltage for electric baseboards and convectors. This groundbreaking device allows for the remote control of your home’s heating directly from your mobile device or computer when connected to a Z-Wave gateway controller, making it a pioneer in smart home climate control for high-voltage heating systems. Its unique design and technology offer an unmatched level of convenience and efficiency, allowing you to set temperature schedules that adapt to your lifestyle while minimizing energy consumption.
By leveraging the power of Z-Wave technology, the Stelpro KI enables advanced automations and interactions with other smart devices in your home. Imagine heating your space as you arrive home or reducing the temperature when no motion is detected, all contributing to a smart, energy-efficient home. The device is also ECO mode equipped, ensuring that energy consumption is kept to a minimum without compromising on comfort. Certified for quality and compatibility with major Z-Wave hubs, this thermostat represents a significant step forward in intelligent home heating.
Specifications:
- Controller Type: Nexia, Vera, Wink, SmartThings
- Specific Uses For Product: Electric heater
- Z-Wave: Unique line voltage control
- Energy Saving: ECO mode for efficient heating
- Integration: Advanced automations with Z-Wave devices
- Certification: Z-Wave Plus and UL certified
- Compatibility: Works with SmartThings, Vera, HomeSeer, Nexia, and Wink
Pros:
- First North American Z-Wave thermostat for line voltage heating offers unmatched control.
- Easy installation and integration with major smart home platforms enhance user experience.
- Energy-efficient features like ECO mode help reduce heating bills.
Cons:
- Some reliability issues, including potential wiring defects.
5. 2GIG Z-Wave 700 Thermostat
The 2GIG Thermostat boasts broad compatibility with the majority of HVAC systems and Z-Wave hubs. It’s crafted to deliver precise control over heating and AC systems, whether you’re home or away, via your smart device. Its capacitive touch buttons and vibrant LED screen ensure a clear display of information and controls, simplifying adjustments.
With Z-Wave 700 technology, this thermostat supports SmartStart and S2 security, ensuring a dependable and secure wireless connection for your smart home devices. The 2GIG-STZ1-345 is highly adaptable, compatible with standard gas/electric and heat pump systems, and offers integration options for humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Whether powered by 24VAC or batteries, installation is straightforward, seamlessly integrating into your smart home setup for efficient climate management and energy savings.
Specifications:
- Controller Type: Push Button
- Special Feature: Programmable
- Compatibility: Most HVAC systems and Z-Wave hubs
- Display: LED screen, capacitive touch buttons
- Z-Wave: 700 compatibility, SmartStart Support, S2 security
- HVAC Compatibility: Standard Gas/Electric, Heat Pump with Humidifier/Dehumidifier support
- Power: 24VAC (R and C) or 4x AA batteries
- Programmable: Yes, via Z-Wave controller
- Built-in Sensor: Humidity sensor
- Warranty: Limited 1-year
Pros:
- Advanced Z-Wave 700 technology enhances connectivity and security.
- Wide HVAC system compatibility ensures versatile use across different home setups.
- User-friendly interface with capacitive touch buttons and a clear LED display.
Cons:
- Requires a Z-Wave controller for programming, limiting standalone use.
Buying Guide For The Best Z wave Thermostat
1. Smart Hub Compatibility
Why It Matters:
The cornerstone of any Z-Wave thermostat’s functionality lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate with your smart home system, which is orchestrated by a central smart hub. This hub facilitates communication between your devices, allowing for a cohesive and efficient smart home ecosystem. The compatibility of your Z-Wave thermostat with this hub is paramount because:
- Interconnectivity: A compatible thermostat ensures smooth communication within your smart home network, enabling you to control various devices through a single interface.
- Future-proofing: Opting for a thermostat that is compatible with widely used and supported hubs can safeguard your investment, ensuring that your device remains functional as technology evolves.
What to Look For:
- Supported Hubs: Verify the list of supported smart hubs provided by the thermostat manufacturer. Look for compatibility with major platforms such as Samsung SmartThings, Wink, or Vera, which are known for their extensive support of Z-Wave devices.
- Z-Wave Plus Certification: Thermostats with Z-Wave Plus certification offer enhanced range, battery life, and bandwidth, indicating a higher level of compatibility and reliability with the latest smart hub technologies.
2. Heating and Cooling Stages
Why It Matters:
The heating and cooling stages of a thermostat dictate its ability to accurately and efficiently manage the climate within your home. This is crucial for several reasons:
- Energy Efficiency: A thermostat that can effectively manage multiple stages of heating and cooling is more likely to optimize energy usage, leading to cost savings on utility bills.
- Comfort: Accurate staging allows for more precise temperature control, maintaining your home at a comfortable level without the frequent on/off cycling that can occur with less sophisticated thermostats.
What to Look For:
- Multi-Stage Support: Look for thermostats that support multiple stages of heating and cooling. For example, a thermostat might offer 2 stages of heating and 2 stages of cooling for conventional systems, and up to 3 stages for heat pump systems.
- Programmability: The ability to program different temperatures for various times of the day can enhance the functionality of multi-stage heating and cooling, offering a balance between comfort and energy efficiency.
- Adaptive Learning Features: Some advanced thermostats learn from your preferences and schedule, adjusting the stages of heating and cooling automatically to suit your lifestyle while optimizing energy use.
3. Thermostat Features
Why It Matters:
The range of features offered by a Z-Wave thermostat directly impacts its convenience, usability, and the level of control you have over your home’s heating and cooling systems. Advanced features can provide greater flexibility and more precise control over your home’s environment, leading to increased comfort and potential energy savings.
What to Look For:
- Remote Access: Ability to control the thermostat from anywhere using a smartphone app or web interface, which is crucial for making adjustments when you’re away from home.
- Energy Reports: Some thermostats provide detailed energy consumption reports, helping you understand your usage patterns and identify opportunities to save energy.
- Sensors: Look for additional sensor capabilities, such as humidity or occupancy sensors, that allow the thermostat to adjust the climate based on real-time environmental conditions or whether rooms are occupied.
4. Scheduling Option
Why It Matters:
Scheduling allows you to set your thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on the time of day or week. This feature is essential for optimizing energy efficiency and ensuring comfort. By programming your thermostat to align with your schedule, you can reduce energy consumption when you’re not home and ensure your living space is comfortable when you are.
What to Look For:
- Flexible Scheduling: The ability to set different temperatures for various times of the day, including weekends and weekdays. Look for options like 7-day, 5-1-1 (weekdays plus two different settings for Saturday and Sunday), or 5-2 programming.
- Adaptive Learning: Some advanced models learn your schedule and preferences over time, automatically adjusting settings to suit your habits while optimizing for energy savings.
- Ease of Programming: Ensure the scheduling interface, whether on the device itself or through an app, is user-friendly and allows for easy adjustments.
5. Display and Controls
Why It Matters:
The design and functionality of the thermostat’s display and controls affect how easily you can interact with the device. A well-designed interface can make programming, adjusting settings, and reading the current temperature or energy reports more intuitive, enhancing your overall user experience.
What to Look For:
- Clear Display: A large, easy-to-read display that shows all necessary information at a glance, including temperature, settings, and any alerts or notifications.
- Touchscreen Controls: Modern thermostats often feature touchscreen displays for ease of use, offering a more intuitive interface for programming and adjustments.
- Backlighting: Consider thermostats with backlit displays for easy viewing in low light conditions, ensuring you can always see the display clearly, regardless of the time of day.
Best Z wave Thermostat: FAQs
Ans: While standard smart systems use WiFi connections, Z wave devices work on a secured and local Z wave connectivity which is limited to your house. Thus, it is more secure and private compared to other options. These systems are more lightweight and affordable compared to other options. Also, they operate on lower energy consumptions and come with built-in Z wave receivers that operate for years without creating any problem.
Another great advantage of Z wave systems is that they work on mesh network technology. Therefore, each connected device works as a dedicated repeater for the network which extends the range of the system and offers great range from anywhere in the house. Also, the devices are connected to a dedicated Z wave controller which automatically configures the devices after pairing. Hence, users do not need to configure each device separately. With all of these advantages, a Z wave thermostat becomes an ideal choice for a budget-focused option.
Ans: Unlike standard WiFi devices that can be connected directly to a router, the Z wave devices need to be connected to a dedicated hub for smart functionality. All Z wave devices can be connected to a single Z wave controller. The controller basically controls the complete Z wave network in your home and provides commands to every device connected to it. And if the controller also features a smart hub implementation, you will find many additional smart features in your network. But without a Z wave controller or a hub, you will not be able to remotely control any of your Z wave-supported devices.
Ans: The Z wave device is an alternative option to the traditional thermostat as it offers remote access and other smart features. But, it offers that without the premium price tag of WiFi-enabled smart thermostats. The main reason behind that is the support for Z waves. These thermostats communicate via the Z wave protocol which is specifically designed for the system. It is only generated and received in the system and cannot be accessed from outside.
The only problem with the Z wave system is the requirement for a hub. If you wish to get a Z wave-supported thermostat, you must already have a Z wave system that includes other Z wave-supported smart devices. Once you get used to the Z wave system, you will find it equally beneficial as the WiFi-based smart system with a more reliable connection.
Conclusion
A smart home thermostat is a crucial part of a smart home system. In fact, it is one of the most important parts as it manages the living conditions inside the house. While it will improve the living quality in the house, it will also offer a significant difference in the electrical bill by managing the system throughout the day.
Apart from WiFi-enabled smart thermostats, there is another category of smart thermostats that are powered by the Z wave technology. We created the list of the best thermostats where you can find the best options and all the necessary information that you need to know about each of our picks. There is also a buying guide for the best Z wave thermostat which will definitely make the process even easier for you. In case you do not want to go through the tedious selection process, simply prefer one of our recommendations given here.
- With options like the Honeywell TH6320ZW2003 T6 Pro, you can easily pick up a smart Z wave thermostat without having to spend a considerable amount. This is one of the most affordable choices in the industry and offers a 7 inches display for a better visual understanding of the thermal system parameters. It can be controlled via Vera or Samsung SmartThings systems for remote access.
- If you are already used to controlling various home devices via voice commands, then the Radio Z-Wave Thermostat will be perfect for you. It supports compatibility with smart home systems such as Amazon’s Alexa assistant. Thus, controlling the device is certainly easier and faster. As for the device itself, you will get a 5.5 inches wide display on the Radio Thermostat.
- Lastly, we will suggest one of the most reliable choices from our list which is the Stelpro Z-Wave Plus KI STZW402WB+. Even though it is cheaper than other choices, it is backed by a 5 year-long warranty period which is pretty great for a smart home appliance. It supports Nexia, Vera, Wink, and Samsung SmartThings remote controlling options, making it a pretty convenient device for regular use. And if you want to manually control the unit, you can use the buttons provided on the device itself.
