Best Thermostats for Heat Pumps With Auxiliary Heat: Top Picks for 2h/1c
Choosing the right thermostat for a heat pump with auxiliary heat helps maximize comfort and energy efficiency. The models below are well-suited for common 2H/1C configurations and include both programmable and non-programmable options, with features like backlit displays and humidity monitoring to fit American homes.
Use the summary table to compare compatibility, power options, and standout features at a glance before diving into the product details.
| Product | Brand | Compatibility | Power | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aowel AW721 | Aowel | Heat pump systems (with aux or emergency heat) up to 2H/1C | 24VAC or batteries | Room temp + humidity monitor; non-programmable |
| Riseem Thermostat | Riseem | 2H/1C heat pump; 1H/1C; not for two-transformer or multi-stage systems | 24VAC or 2 AAA batteries; no common wire required on most systems | Large blue backlit LCD; quick install |
| SASWELL T21 | SASWELL | 2H/1C heat pump or conventional 2H/1C; C-wire recommended | 24VAC or battery | 5+2 programming; backlit LCD |
| Garystat Non-Programmable | Garystat | Heat pump and conventional forced-air/gas/oil furnaces | Power details vary by model; verify compatibility | Temperature/Humidity monitor; large green LCD |
| Suuwer Non-Programmable | Suuwer | 2H/1C heat pump; aux heat compatible; 24V single-stage systems | 24VAC or batteries; check compatibility | Clear display; caution about installation compatibility |
Aowel AW721 2H/1C Non-Programmable Thermostat
Aowel AW721 is a non-programmable thermostat designed for heat pump configurations that include auxiliary or emergency heat. It supports up to two heating and one cooling stage, making it suitable for common 2H/1C systems. The device also provides room temperature and humidity monitoring along with a white backlit display for easy reading in dim lighting. Before purchasing, confirm compatibility with your HVAC setup and review the wall footprint to ensure the old thermostat’s traces are covered after installation. Power can be supplied via 24VAC or batteries for flexible retrofitting.
Riseem Non-Programmable Thermostat: 2H/1C or 1H/1C
The Riseem thermostat is a straightforward, non-programmable option suited for 2H/1C heat pump setups or single-stage configurations. It is not compatible with two-transformer or traditional multi-stage systems, and it avoids common-wiring complications by often not requiring a C-wire. Installation is designed for a 30-minute setup with large terminal blocks and a universal sub-base. It can be powered by 24VAC or two AAA batteries, offering flexibility in retrofit projects where a C-wire might be absent. The blue backlit display provides clear visibility in various lighting conditions.
SASWELL T21 Programmable 2H/1C Thermostat
The SASWELL T21 is a programmable thermostat capable of handling up to 2H/1C heat pump systems, including auxiliary heat. It also supports conventional multi-stage setups and requires a C-wire for full operation. The 5+2 programming feature enables separate schedules for weekdays and weekends, promoting energy efficiency while preserving comfort. The design conceals some control buttons behind a cover to prevent accidental changes, and the backlit LCD can display temperatures in Fahrenheit or Celsius. It’s suitable for integration with gas, electric, or oil furnaces when paired with compatible controls.
Garystat Non-Programmable Heat Pump Thermostat
Garystat offers a non-programmable option for heat pump systems and conventional forced-air setups, featuring a temperature and humidity monitor with a large green LCD. It is compatible with heat pumps and central gas, oil, or electric furnaces, but it does not work with electric baseboard heat (110-240V) or RV thermostats. Prospective buyers should verify compatibility with their existing thermostat, especially regarding wall footprint and wiring compatibility. The installation is designed to be straightforward using standard wiring in a compact form factor.
Suuwer Non-Programmable Heat Pump Thermostat
The Suuwer non-programmable thermostat is designed for heat pumps with up to 2 heating and 1 cooling stage and supports auxiliary heat. It’s compatible with most 24V conventional single-stage systems and is appropriate for central gas or electric furnaces when connected to compatible controls. Prospective buyers should review installation images and wiring instructions before purchasing to avoid incompatibility. The device emphasizes a clear display and straightforward controls, with an emphasis on proper compatibility and wall footprint in the installation process.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting a thermostat for a heat pump with auxiliary heat include compatibility with 2H/1C systems, the presence of auxiliary or emergency heat, and the ability to support conventional setups if you have a hybrid system. It’s important to confirm C-wire requirements, power options (24VAC vs batteries), and whether the unit supports full programming (5+2) or is non-programmable. Reading the wall footprint and ensuring the new thermostat can cover traces from the old model helps with a clean installation.
Power sources vary by model. Some thermostats operate on 24VAC while others can run on batteries, which is helpful for retrofit projects lacking a common wire. Programmable models offer more energy-savings opportunities through weekly scheduling, while non-programmable units emphasize simplicity and reliability. Display readability matters, with backlit or large LCDs aiding visibility in different lighting conditions. Note that many products exclude use with high-voltage baseboard heat or RV systems, so verify system type before purchasing.
| Product | Programmable | Heat Pump Compatibility | Power & Wiring | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aowel AW721 | No | 2H/1C with aux or without aux | 24VAC or batteries | Humidity monitor; simple interface |
| Riseem | No | 2H/1C or 1H/1C | 24VAC or 2 AAA; no C-wire required on most systems | Easy DIY install; blue backlit LCD |
| SASWELL T21 | Yes | 2H/1C heat pump or conventional multi-stage | 24VAC or battery; C-wire required | 5+2 programming; backlit display |
| Garystat | No | Heat pump and conventional central systems | Variable; verify compatibility | Humidity monitor; large LCD |
| Suuwer | No | 2H/1C with aux; 24V single-stage | 24VAC or batteries | Clear display; installation caution advised |
In summary, programmable options like the SASWELL T21 can deliver more energy savings through scheduling, while non-programmable models such as the Aowel AW721, Riseem, Garystat, and Suuwer emphasize straightforward operation and ease of installation. For homes with auxiliary heat, confirming compatibility with auxiliary heat and ensuring the appropriate power wiring (C-wire presence or alternative power) are the two most critical factors. When shopping, also consider display readability, size coverage on the wall, and whether humidity monitoring adds practical value for your space.