How to Program Honeywell Thermostat (All Models)

Do you want to take control of your home‘s climate and potentially save up to 33% on your energy bills? Your Honeywell thermostat holds the key, but only if you program it correctly. Whether you‘ve just installed a brand new Honeywell thermostat or you‘re looking to optimize an existing one, proper programming makes all the difference between comfort and cost savings.

I‘ve spent years working with various HVAC systems and thermostat models, and I can tell you that Honeywell offers some of the most reliable temperature control solutions on the market. But their wide range of products—from basic manual models to advanced smart thermostats—means that programming techniques vary significantly across the lineup.

In this definitive guide, I‘ll walk you through programming every type of Honeywell thermostat, from vintage round dials to the latest touchscreen smart models. Let‘s get your thermostat working smarter for you.

Types of Honeywell Thermostats and Their Programming Capabilities

Honeywell has manufactured thermostats for over 100 years, with their product line evolving dramatically. Today‘s models range from simple manual controls to sophisticated smart devices that learn your preferences. Understanding which type you have is the first step to proper programming.

Manual Thermostats

• Round dial thermostats (The Classic T87 and its variants)
• Basic digital non-programmable models (FocusPRO 5000 series)
• Limited programming capabilities but reliable temperature control

Programmable Digital Thermostats

• 5-2 day models (weekday/weekend programming)
• 5-1-1 day models (weekday/Saturday/Sunday programming)
• 7-day models (individual day programming)
• PRO series (TH4110D, TH6220D, etc.)
• VisionPRO series (TH8000 series)
• FocusPRO series (TH5000, TH6000)
• Offer 4-6 time periods per day with separate heat/cool settings

Smart/Wi-Fi Thermostats

• T-Series (T5, T6, T9, T10 Pro)
• Lyric series (Lyric Round, Lyric T5, T6)
• Total Connect Comfort models (RTH9580WF, RTH8580WF)
• Feature geofencing, remote access, learning capabilities, and HVAC system monitoring

Look at your thermostat‘s faceplate or check the model number on the back of the unit to determine which type you have. The programming process will differ depending on your specific model.

Capability Comparison: Programming Features by Model Type

Programming Manual Honeywell Thermostats

Manual thermostats are the simplest to operate but offer the least programming capability. These include the iconic round thermostats and basic digital models without scheduling functions.

Round Dial Thermostats (T87 Series)

The classic Honeywell round thermostat, introduced in 1953, is recognized by the Smithsonian as an iconic design piece. While it doesn‘t offer programming in the traditional sense, you can still set it properly:

1. Locate the temperature setting dial (typically in the center of the thermostat).
2. Turn the dial clockwise to increase the temperature or counterclockwise to decrease it.
3. Set the dial to your desired temperature.
4. For models with heating/cooling options, use the system switch (usually labeled HEAT-OFF-COOL) to select your desired mode.
5. If your model has a fan switch, set it to either ON (continuous fan operation) or AUTO (fan runs only during heating or cooling).

Pro tip: The actual room temperature is shown on the outer ring or display, while your set temperature is indicated by the pointer or digital reading.

Historical note: The original T87 round thermostat used a mercury switch and bimetallic coil system. Modern versions use digital technology while maintaining the classic appearance.

Basic Digital Non-Programmable Models

These thermostats (like the FocusPRO 5000) have digital displays but don‘t allow for scheduling. To set them:

1. Press the up or down arrows (or + and – buttons) to adjust the temperature.
2. Use the MODE button to switch between HEAT, COOL, and OFF.
3. Use the FAN button to toggle between AUTO and ON settings.

While these models don‘t offer time-based programming, some may have a "Hold" function that maintains a specific temperature until manually changed.

Energy efficiency note: Even with manual thermostats, consistent temperature management can reduce energy costs by 10-15%, according to Energy Department data. Try to establish a routine of manually adjusting your thermostat at regular times.

Programming Digital Programmable Thermostats

Programmable Honeywell thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of day, potentially saving energy when you‘re away or sleeping. According to Energy Star, proper use of a programmable thermostat can save about $180 per year in energy costs.

Standard 7-Day, 5-2, and 5-1-1 Programmable Models

These popular thermostats allow for different programming options depending on your lifestyle. Here‘s how to program most standard models:

1. Press the SET or MENU button.
2. Select SCHEDULE or PROGRAM.
3. You‘ll see the days you can program (depending on your model type).
4. For each day or day group, you‘ll typically program four time periods:
   • Wake (morning when you get up)
   • Leave (daytime when you‘re away)
   • Return (evening when you come home)
   • Sleep (nighttime settings)
5. For each period:
   • Set the START TIME using the arrow or +/- buttons
   • Set the TEMPERATURE for that period
   • Press NEXT or similar to move to the next period
6. After programming all periods, press DONE or EXIT to save your settings.

Example Program Schedule for Winter:

• Wake: 6:00 AM – 68°F
• Leave: 8:00 AM – 62°F
• Return: 5:00 PM – 68°F
• Sleep: 10:00 PM – 62°F

Summer Schedule Example:

• Wake: 6:00 AM – 75°F
• Leave: 8:00 AM – 80°F
• Return: 5:00 PM – 75°F
• Sleep: 10:00 PM – 78°F

Energy Efficiency Data: According to research, each degree of setback during an 8-hour period can save approximately 1% on your heating bill. Using the winter schedule above (with a 6°F setback while away and sleeping) could potentially save 12-13% on heating costs.

Model-Specific Programming: Honeywell FocusPRO Series

The FocusPRO series (TH5000, TH6000) offers a balance of simplicity and functionality:

1. Press SCHED to begin programming.
2. Use NEXT to cycle through days/time periods.
3. Use ▲ and ▼ buttons to adjust times and temperatures.
4. Press EXIT when complete.

Special FocusPRO Features:

• Early Start: Some models have this feature that learns how long it takes to reach your desired temperature and starts heating/cooling early to hit target temps at the programmed time.
• Adaptive Intelligent Recovery: Advanced models calculate the optimal time to begin heating or cooling to achieve the desired temperature at the programmed time, potentially saving 10% on energy costs.

Honeywell PRO Series Thermostats

The PRO series includes models like TH4110D, TH6220D, and others. These often have more advanced functions:

1. Press MENU or SCHED.
2. Select the day or day group you wish to program.
3. Press SELECT to begin programming that day.
4. Use the arrow keys to adjust the time, heating, and cooling settings for each period.
5. Press SELECT to advance to the next time period.
6. After setting all periods, press DONE.

PRO Series Additional Features:

• Some models have a separate button for programming the HEAT and COOL modes.
• Many PRO series thermostats allow you to copy schedules from one day to another:
  1. Program one day completely
  2. Press COPY or similar function
  3. Select which days should receive the same schedule
  4. Press DONE to confirm

Commercial Applications: The PRO series is often used in small business settings, where according to Honeywell data, proper programming can reduce HVAC energy usage by up to 20%.

Honeywell VisionPRO Series

The VisionPRO thermostats (TH8000 series) feature larger touchscreens and more intuitive interfaces:

1. Touch MENU on the home screen.
2. Touch CREATE SCHEDULE or EDIT SCHEDULE.
3. Select which days you want to program (most models allow for individual day programming).
4. For each period (Wake, Leave, Return, Sleep):
   • Touch the time display to adjust the start time
   • Touch the temperature display to adjust the temperature
   • Touch DONE to save that period‘s settings
5. Touch NEXT to move to the next day or period.
6. When finished with all days, touch DONE.

VisionPRO Tip: These models often allow you to review the entire weekly schedule on one screen. Look for the VIEW SCHEDULE option to check your programming at a glance.

VisionPRO Advanced Features:

• Touchscreen Calibration: If the touchscreen becomes less responsive, most VisionPRO models have a calibration function in the Advanced Settings menu.
• Dealer Information Storage: Can store your HVAC contractor‘s contact information for quick access when service is needed.
• IAQ Control: Some models can control whole-home humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and ventilation systems in addition to heating and cooling.

Programming Wi-Fi and Smart Honeywell Thermostats

Smart thermostats can be programmed both at the device and through mobile apps or web interfaces, offering maximum flexibility. According to market research, smart thermostats can reduce heating and cooling costs by 10-23% compared to non-programmable models, with the higher savings coming from those who actively manage their schedules.

T-Series Thermostats (T5, T6, T9, T10)

The T-Series represents Honeywell‘s newer smart thermostat lineup. These can be programmed both on the device and via the Honeywell Home app:

Device Programming:

1. Touch the menu icon (usually three lines) on the thermostat.
2. Select SCHEDULE.
3. Choose which days to program (typically Weekdays, Saturday, Sunday, or individual days).
4. For each time period:
   • Set the time using the + and – controls
   • Set the temperature using the + and – controls
   • Touch SELECT or SAVE to confirm
5. Continue programming all periods and days.
6. Touch DONE when finished.

Honeywell Home App Programming:

1. Open the Honeywell Home app on your smartphone.
2. Select your thermostat from the device list.
3. Tap SCHEDULE.
4. You can create a schedule based on:
   • Location-based (uses your phone‘s location to adjust temperature automatically)
   • Time-based (traditional scheduling by time of day)
5. For time-based scheduling:
   • Select the day(s) you want to program
   • Tap + ADD PERIOD to create temperature periods
   • Set the start time and desired temperature
   • Tap SAVE
6. Review your complete schedule and make adjustments as needed.

T-Series Smart Features:

• Smart Alerts: Receive notifications about extreme indoor temperatures, filter changes, and humidity levels.
• Multi-Room Sensors: The T9 and T10 can connect with remote sensors to prioritize comfort in specific rooms at specific times.
• Smart Response: Learns how your home heats and cools to deliver the right temperature at the right time.

According to Honeywell‘s user data, homes using the T-Series thermostats with geofencing enabled save an average of 15-20% on energy costs compared to static programming.

Honeywell Lyric Thermostats

Lyric thermostats feature a unique geofencing capability that tracks your location through your smartphone:

On the Device:

1. Press the MENU button.
2. Select SCHEDULE.
3. Choose whether to use LOCATION (geofencing) or TIME (traditional schedule).
4. For time-based scheduling, follow similar steps to other programmable models.
5. Press DONE to save.

Lyric App Programming:

1. Open the Lyric app on your smartphone.
2. Select your thermostat.
3. Tap THERMOSTAT SETTINGS.
4. Select SCHEDULE TYPE and choose between:
   • Geofencing (adjusts based on your location)
   • Time-Based Schedule (traditional programming)
   • Smart Schedule (learns your preferences over time)
5. For Time-Based scheduling:
   • Set your Home, Away, and Sleep temperatures
   • Set times for each period
   • Assign different schedules to different days
6. For Geofencing:
   • Set your Home and Away temperatures
   • Configure your geofence radius (how far from home before temperature changes)

Lyric Geofencing Data: According to Honeywell‘s research, geofencing can deliver up to 25% energy savings compared to non-programmable thermostats by automatically adjusting when no one is home – even at unexpected times. User data shows the optimal geofence radius for most homes is 2-4 miles.

Total Connect Comfort Models

These include models like the RTH9585WF and others that use the Total Connect Comfort app or website:

Device Programming:

1. Press MENU.
2. Select CREATE/EDIT SCHEDULE.
3. Use the touchscreen to select days, periods, times, and temperatures.
4. Press DONE when complete.

Website Programming:

1. Visit mytotalconnectcomfort.com and log in.
2. Select your thermostat.
3. Click on the SCHEDULE tab.
4. Use the visual interface to drag and adjust temperature setpoints.
5. Click SAVE when finished.

Total Connect Comfort App:

1. Open the Total Connect