Last updated on August 3rd, 2022 at 12:29 pm
Gone are the days when one had to set the thermostat again and again. A programmable thermostat is the new ‘it’ thing and we are all for it. Users can pre-program it and set different temperatures at different times. The modern thermostat also notifies its users regarding the time it is going to take to achieve a certain temperature.
Our research team has spent 125 hours in search of the best programmable. Luckily, we could shortlist the top 7 programmable thermostats under $50. So let’s get right to it.
What makes for the best programmable thermostat under $50?
While searching for the best programmable thermostat we found some factors. These factors are important to define the characteristics of a good thermostat.
Voltage of Thermostat
The first and most important thing to note is the compatibility of the thermostat with your system. These thermostats are designed to operate for special HVAC systems. Do not expect them to work with every kind of system available. Always match the voltage of a thermostat with the system you own. It is a waste of money to buy a thermostat that is not compatible with the system.
Installation Process
Often users complain that it was not an easy task to install the thermostat. Always make sure that it comes with an installation guide. Also, you can easily install it yourself if the installation process is an easy one.
User Interface
User Interface is a very important factor to consider. With a confusing user interface, it gets very difficult to use the thermostat. Specifically, first-timers should pay special attention to the interface.
Geofencing Ability
The geofencing ability allows the thermostat to be connected with any phone. This makes the overall operation quite convenient. Also, it helps in saving energy. One can operate the thermostat from anywhere easily through the connected phone.
Built-In Sensors
Sensors play an important role in making your thermostat smart. Always make sure that it has all the necessary sensors. Without these sensors, it is useless to buy a programmable thermostat.
C-Wire Requirement
Most of the modern programmable thermostats are equipped with a C-Wire. It increases the electrical efficiency of the thermostat.
Remote Access
In the latest thermostats, users do not need to be nearby to operate them. With the help of a mobile application, the user can change the settings from anywhere.
Smart Features
Some smart features like voice assistance are changing the dynamics rapidly. If you want to have a fully loaded thermostat, you can look for a voice assistance feature. It can increase the cost of the product but gives you the ultimate experience.
List of the top 7 best programmable thermostats under $50
1. Orbit 83521 Clear Comfort – best programmable thermostat under $50
Key Features
- Weight: 9.3 ounces
- Dimensions: 1.5 x 5 x 3 inches
- Manufacturer: Orbit
We have placed Orbit on the top of our list. As it includes some of the best features that a modern thermostat should have. This is a type of thermostat that can enhance the beauty of any room with its elegance. A large display with a backlight allows users to view temperature from a good distance.
Furthermore, it never delays. It always reaches the required temperature at the calculated time. It can make your life immensely comfortable. As it can be programmed differently for each day. It even allows you to set different temperatures for different hours of the day. Accuracy is one of the best things about this thermostat.
The reviewers were extremely happy with its accuracy which people want to buy the same product again in case it breaks down. One factor, however, that may be a tad bit annoying for some people is that its swing setting is not adjustable.
Pros
- Easy to program
- Elegant design
- Very accurate
Cons
- Swing settings are not adjustable
2. LuxPRO FBA_PSP511LC – top rated programmable thermostat
Key Features
- Weight: 0.01 ounces
- Dimensions: 5 x 3.25 x 1.5 inches
- Manufacturer: LuxPRO
If you are tired of programming your thermostat daily then the LuxPRO FBA_PSP511LC Thermostat is the right choice. It has the ability to set different temperatures for different days. A user can program weekdays and weekends according to their preference. A special speed dial from Lux is also part of the package.
Moreover, for a single day user can set the temperature for four different periods. It contains a different program for cooling & heating. The swing temperature of this thermostat is also fully adjustable. Its design has been kept very simple. So, it goes well with all sorts of wall settings.
Although the separate programs for heating and cooling might appeal to some. It may have a contrary effect on others. Some users reported that they did not like separate programs for heating and cooling. This feature comes down to everyone’s preference. One real drawback that was discovered was that the button may start sticking after some time of use.
Pros
- Can program it differently for different days
- Swinging temperature is adjustable
- Shortcuts for programming
Cons
- Heating and cooling require separate programming
- Sticky buttons
3. Hunter 44360 Set and Save 7-Day –best easy programmable thermostat
Key Features
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Dimensions: 1 x 6.1 x 5 inches
- Manufacturer: Hunter Fan Company
With an indigo backlit display, this hunter’s programmable thermostat has it all. The seven days of the week can be programmed differently. There is no need for programming regularly. Moreover, it also increases the elegance of your room. Its sleek and simple design can fit any environment.
Users can reset all settings by a single press of a button. A large LCD provides a crystal-clear display. The temperature can be read even from a good distance. It is an energy star certified product. So, there is no doubt about its quality.
Although some users are not happy with the batteries. Two AA batteries are required to make it work. Some users also felt that it was very difficult for them to program the thermostat initially.
Pros
- Programs each day with different programming
- Home-Today button
- Certified by energy star
Cons
- It’s not easy to program it
- battery problem
4. Emerson 1F78-151 Single-Stage Programmable Digital Thermostat
Key Features
- Weight: 12.8 ounces
- Dimensions: 1.75 x 6.25 x 4.25 inches
- Manufacturer: Emerson Climate Technologies
Emerson is well known for its quality products. This thermostat with an easy to read and the backlit display is one of the best in the market. We all have different workloads on weekends as compared to the rest of the days. That is why Emerson has designed it in such a way that it can be separately programmed for weekends.
You do not need any special kind of system. It can work with single-stage heating systems. Powerful batteries make it work for a long time. Two AAA batteries are there to support this programmable thermostat. Moreover, temperature control is very accurate and precise.
Always read the installation instructions carefully before trying to install it. You can also hire a specialist to install it. Many people complain about the installation process. Also, some are little concerned with the programming method.
Pros
- Programmable separately for weekends
- Backlit display
- single staged HVAC systems are compatible with it
Cons
- Tough to program
- Not an easy task to install it
5. Honeywell Home RTH2300B1038 5-2 Day- Backlit Display Programmable Thermostat
Key Features
- Weight: 4 ounces
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 1 x 4.75 inches
- Manufacturer: Honeywell Home
It does not matter how good your eyesight is, with this thermostat you can easily read the temperature. It is equipped with a backlit display that enhances the readability of the screen. Temperature can be adjusted precisely with an increase or decrease of only 1°F. Users can have a separate program for weekends too.
It has been designed to be used with central gas, oil, or electric furnaces. Moreover, it is fully compatible with millivolt systems. So, it does not require a heavy system for functioning properly. Also, it is very easy to program it. In case of a power outage, it remembers all the settings.
With all these qualities there are also a few things that can raise some concerns. Some users were not happy with the durability of this programmable thermostat. According to them after a month of use, its display became unreadable and other problems also started to arise.
Pros
- Reminder to change the battery
- A separate program for weekends
- Backlit display
Cons
- Durability issues
6. Ventamatic XXFIRESTAT 10-Amp – best cheap thermostat
Key Features
- Weight: 5.6 ounces
- Dimensions: 4.75 x 2.5 x 4.75 inches
- Manufacturer: Ventamatic
Ventamatic is one of the earliest to produce programmable thermostats. Only a screwdriver is needed to adjust it. With a metallic switch, it is very easy to handle.
Also, it has an energy-efficient feature. Users can save plenty of energy by using it. Constructed with durable material, it provides a ten-year warranty to its users. This thermostat is a tough one and can handle wear and tear of daily life.
Still, some people find its programming method very difficult. You need to put an extra bit of effort to change the simple settings. Moreover, it gets very difficult to install it sometimes.
Pros
- Durable
- Adjustable
- Energy Efficient
Cons
- Difficult to install
- Not easy to program
7. Honeywell Home RTH5160D1003 Non-programmable Thermostat
Key Features
- Weight: 16 ounces
- Dimensions: 6.63 x 8.75 x 1.75 inches
- Manufacturer: Honeywell Home
Often elders have an ever-remaining issue with the latest technology. It is only because they find it difficult to operate. Honeywell Home offers this product with a simple display and easy to use buttons. Even elders can easily become familiar with the interface of this programmable thermostat.
Also, the accuracy of the thermostat is up to the mark. It is precise up to 1°F. You never need to worry about the low battery. It always notifies the user when the battery gets low. Moreover, even if the battery dies all the programming remains safe in the memory of the thermostat.
The programming mechanism of this product is not up to the mark. You can get stuck in between and there is no way out. Also, the customer care service is not up to the standard. They make you wait for days for a single reply.
Pros
- Accurate
- Easy to read
- Elegant display
- Low battery notification
Cons
- Difficult to program
- Customer care service is not good
Conclusion
Without proper research, it can get tricky to buy a programmable thermostat. There are several options available with different features. First, you need to know your requirements only then you can go for a perfect match. We have listed the top seven programmable thermostats. Also, the pros and cons of each are discussed thoroughly. Go ahead and feel free to take maximum help from our guide. All the listed products are under $50 so without worrying about the budget only focus on the requirements.
FAQs
1. Should I spend money on a programmable thermostat?
Yes, it is worth it. You will only need to program it once and then it will work accordingly. These thermostats can help you in saving energy.
2. Should I turn down the thermostat at night?
Yes, you can save both energy and money by turning it down at night.
3. Can I leave the heat on all day?
No, it is not very energy efficient. You should only leave the heat on when you need it.
4. How can I heat my house more efficiently?
If you want to make your thermostat work efficiently. Only turn on the heat when you require it.
5. What is the most appropriate temperature for a thermostat in winter?
The most appropriate temperature range for winter is from 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Although it can vary from person to person and area to area.
6. What is the use of C-Wire with a thermostat?
C-Wire increases the efficiency of a thermostat amazingly.
