Radiant floor heating has long been a popular choice for homeowners, offering efficient and comfortable warmth throughout living spaces. The key to maximizing the benefits of this type of heating system lies in selecting the right thermostat. A quality radiant heat thermostat ensures even heat distribution, prevents energy waste, and maintains optimal comfort levels.
This guide explores the types of radiant heat thermostats available, their features, and how to select the best option for different heating systems and your needs.
Do You Need a Special Thermostat for Radiant Heat Systems?
Radiant heat systems require specialized thermostats to function effectively. While some thermostat models can control both radiant floor heating and traditional HVAC systems, others are designed specifically for radiant heat control. Standard HVAC thermostats aren’t suitable for controlling radiant heat systems due to the unique way they operate.
Homeowners have two main options when it comes to radiant heat thermostats: integrated thermostats that control both radiant heat and HVAC systems or independent thermostats designed solely for radiant heat control.
The choice depends on the homeowner’s specific needs, budget, and existing heating setup. Integrated thermostats simplify the heating system and make it easier to control. Independent thermostats focus on making the radiant heating system work as efficiently as possible.
Key Features To Look for in a Radiant Heat Thermostat
When selecting a radiant heat thermostat, homeowners should consider some important features to optimize performance and energy efficiency:
Temperature Sensor and Display
A quality radiant heat thermostat should have both a temperature sensor and a display. The sensor accurately measures the current temperature, while the display allows homeowners to monitor the system’s performance easily. These features help you determine comfort levels and identify any potential issues with the heating system.
A clear, easy-to-read display is essential for quickly seeing the current temperature. Some thermostats also offer colored displays that change tones based on the current temperature settings, providing at-a-glance updates.
Compatibility with Radiant Heat Source
Radiant heat thermostats are typically designed for specific types of heating systems. Homeowners must pick one that matches their radiant heat source, whether it’s electric or hydronic (water-based). Using an incompatible thermostat can lead to poor performance and damage to the system.
Programming Capabilities
For optimal efficiency, we recommend that homeowners consider thermostats with multiple programming functions. These allow for customized heating schedules, such as increasing heat right before you wake up in the morning and shutting it off while you’re at work. However, simpler models are available for those who prefer more straightforward operation.
Modern smart thermostats let you remotely control them via smartphones or voice assistants such as Google Home, Alexa, and Siri. These features give you better energy management, particularly for homeowners with dynamic schedules.
Voltage Compatibility
The thermostat must be compatible with the voltage of the radiant floor heating system. Mismatched voltage will result in a malfunction or failure. Verify the system’s voltage requirements before you buy a thermostat.
Top Radiant Floor Heating Thermostats for Different Systems
Choosing the right thermostat depends on the type of radiant heating system installed. Here are some top options for different setups:
The Aube by Honeywell thermostat is an excellent choice for hydronic radiant heat systems. While not a smart device, it offers many of the same settings as more advanced models at an affordable price point. Key features include:
- Programmable settings for each day of the week
- Battery backup for power outages
- Compatibility with water heaters for source heat regulation
- Travel mode for easy temperature adjustment when away
The Aube by Honeywell balances functionality and simplicity, making it ideal for homeowners who want efficient control over their hydronic radiant heat without the complexity of a smart system.
Best for: regulating hydronic radiant heat on a programmed schedule
For electric radiant floor heating systems, the Mysa Smart Thermostat offers a blend of sleek design and advanced functionality. Its smart features include:
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control via smartphone app
- Compatibility with various smart home systems
- Ability to control systems up to 3,800 watts
- Floor and room temperature sensing options
This thermostat is perfect for tech-savvy homeowners who want precise control over their electric radiant heat system from anywhere. The Mysa Smart Thermostat also integrates well with other smart home devices and systems.
Best for: smart temperature control of electric floor heat systems
Not all floor heat thermometers run with the large price tag. For something moderately priced – but still programmable – to use with your electric floor heating consider this Saswell model. It still has the energy-efficient features of a programmable thermostat, but it isn’t as complicated as hooking to WiFi, downloading an app, and dealing with technical learning curves.
Use the display to set defaults for different days of the week, as well as several one-push pre-programmed settings to make sure you’re only using the radiant heat system when it matters. With temperature and setting displays, you’ll stay on top of your energy usage and keep your home warm.
Features:
- This can be wired to electric radiant floor heat, and use with hydronic systems should be avoided.
- This can attach to either a floor heat sensor or a room heat sensor, your choice. However, it cannot read both. Floor sensing is recommended for colder months when use is consistent, and room-temperature readings are best for warm months and mild weather when use is sporadic.
- Accurate within 1 degree Fahrenheit. Because the readings are dependable, the thermostat can be used as a gauge to tell if something is wrong with your floor heat system.
Best for: automated programming of a radiant heat system within a budget.
For those who prefer straightforward operation, the Baomain Manual Controller offers a no-frills approach to radiant heat control. Its features include:
- Compatibility with both hydronic and electric systems
- Simple dial control for temperature adjustment
- Accuracy within 1°C
- Budget-friendly pricing
This thermostat offers direct temperature control without complex programming. It’s most suited to mild climates or spaces in which you’ll use the heating system intermittently. Its manual dial control makes it easy to adjust the temperature quickly, giving you comfort without fuss.
Best for: budget-conscious electric radiant floor heat users who want direct control of the temperature setting at all times and no programming
How To Install a Radiant Heat Thermostat
Installing a radiant heat thermostat is a straightforward process for many homeowners—follow these steps carefully:
- Turn off power to the heating system at the circuit breaker.
- Remove the old thermostat, if present, and disconnect the wires.
- Identify and label the wires according to the new thermostat’s instructions.
- Mount the new thermostat’s base plate to the wall.
- Connect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the new thermostat.
- Attach the thermostat face to the base plate.
- Restore power to the system and program the thermostat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, we recommend hiring an electrician to complete the installation and avoid potential safety hazards. Proper installation guarantees that the thermostat functions efficiently and prolongs the lifespan of your heating system.
