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Smart Thermostats

9 Best Thermostats: Hot Water Baseboard Heat 2024 (Tested!)

Antonio Forde
Updated: February 27, 2024
10 min read

Choosing the best thermostat for your hot water baseboard heating system can be extremely difficult. With all the options and features available today, I found that you just can’t beat the Honeywell Home Conventional Programmable Thermostat for its intuitive design and unique interface.

How I Picked
System Compatibility

Hot water baseboard systems are out of the norm and require different wiring configurations. I had to put in extra effort to find the right compatibilities. Don’t pay for something you can’t use!

Footprint/Design

I am no handyman and certainly didn’t want to spend any more money. I wanted to make sure I would choose a model that sufficiently replaced my old one without needing to make repairs.

Quick DIY Installation

Speaking of not being a handyman and spending extra money, I sure didn’t want to hire a pro for the installation. I chose the easiest most DIY capable thermostats.

Brand Backing

A thermostat is a huge contributor to the quality of life in the home. I wanted to make sure that I was investing in a brand rather than just another product.

Top Pick
Honeywell Home RTH7560E 7-Day Flexible Programmable Thermostat-Extra-Large Backlit Display, White
Honeywell Home RTH7560 Conventional 7-Day Programmable Thermostat

Designed specifically to fit into your life while also making it more convenient and efficient.

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You will not find a more well-known or reputable name in the heating and air industry than

Honeywell. They’ve been around for generations, offering quality heating and air accessories.

The thing I most admired about this stat was its design and interface.

Yes, it is easy to use. Yes, it looks good sitting on my wall. Yes, it is programmable.

However, that’s still not what got me hooked. It was the way Honeywell designed the stat to fit into my life.

Take the learning technology and 7-day programming for example.

With the Honeywell Home stat, you don’t just have the option of creating a unique 7-day schedule, but you won’t need to after a week.

After installing the thermostat and letting it acclimate for a week it will begin making efficient adjustments based on your previous settings.

It will learn your preferences, style, and mesh right in with your life.

If that doesn’t make things easy and convenient then nothing will. The installation was on the same level.

Thanks to the battery backup, you won’t even need a common wire for most installations while the patented Uwp mounting system simplifies the process even further.

The RTH7560’s clean, white rectangular design is spacious enough to cover even the largest of older models.

The 3.86” (H) x 5.36” (W) x 1.08” (D) dimensions will likely eliminate the need to repaint or plaster.

The RTH5760 is not touchscreen operable, but it does offer a big brightly lit beautiful

LCD screen.

The screen light of bright and is large enough to help me easily keep track of pertinent system data.

Along with temperatures, you’ll get info about your fan, system mode, and scheduling.

Budget Pick
Honeywell Home CT410B Manual 4 Wire Premium Baseboard/Line Volt Thermostat CT410B1017
Honeywell Home CT410B Manual 4 Wire Premium Baseboard Thermostat

An exceptionally practical and affordable thermostat that offers the increased economics and versatility today’s hot water baseboard users need.

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It doesn’t get any more straightforward or easier than the CT410B.

This thermostat can be installed in just a matter of minutes while still offering the versatility to control up to 5,280 watts.

With the nonpolarized 2 or 4 wire connection capabilities, modern baseboard users will have a multitude of more installation configurations at their fingertips.

Backed with the Honeywell name and rugged good looks, you can tell by just looking at the stat you are getting quality meshed with dependability.

Although the CT410B does offer a bright shiny futuristic display, it makes up for it with practicality.

The simple retro turn dial labeled with degrees F settings makes operation as easy as it gets.

The bi-metal temperature sensor backed with the rugged design offer levels of reliability and accuracy that are hard for many manufacturers to match.

With the dimension of 2.75”, x 2” x 4.5”, you get a beautiful white, non-invasive temperature control that easily meshes with most interior designs.

The 120 to 240-volt, 2 or 4 wire installation, along with control watts of up to 5,280 offers the complete versatility needed to configure with a multitude of baseboard systems.

You can pick up an entire 4-pack of these thermostats for just a fraction of what you’d pay for one programmable stat.

Also Great
ELV4 Lux Products Line Voltage Programmable - Heat Only - Single or Double Pole Thermostat
ELV4 Lux Programmable Thermostat

Take your home’s comfort to entirely new heights with the 2 or 5-day, 4 periods per day programming options. Total customized comfort!

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Lux is another thermostat manufacturer that’s been around the block more than once.

That much is evident by just looking at the ELV4 Thermostat.

The programming capabilities are the first thing that I must touch on.

Lux isn’t just offering you a customizable programming baseboard thermostat here.

They are offering you something entirely different with its 2 or 5-day and 4-period programming.

Design a schedule for 2 or 5 days with 4 individual temperature periods.

For instance, you can design a morning/night schedule or a morning/noon/afternoon/night. The option is yours to experiment with.

The only thing I don’t like about the ELV4 Thermostat is the aesthetics. With dimensions of 1.75” x 9.5” x 7.5”, the thermostat feels kind of clunky.

However, this could just be considered a testament to its overall durability. It’s certainly large enough to cover more replacement models.

It even comes along with a handy backplate, just in the event that it isn’t large enough by itself.

Eliminating the need for additional wall repairs makes the installation twice as easy.

As far as everything else, Lux takes convenience and simplicity to new levels.

The installation is not only extremely DIY, but they offer a front panel battery access.

This eliminates the need to shut down power and remove the stat just to change the batteries.

#4
SunTouch SunStat Core Non-Programmable Thermostat for Floor Heating Systems, 4.63 x 2.95 x 1.65 inches, White, for Radiant Floor Heating System Applications for 120-240V Floor Heating Cables
SunTouch Core Floor Heat Thermostat

The built-in relay system along with the 15-Amp GFCI offers the utmost versatility combined with ultimate safety.

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Whether you have a 120 or 240-volt baseboard heating system, you won’t have a problem installing the SunTouch Core.

The stat offer compatibility with a multitude of systems.

The built-in relay system only further adds to the versatility by offering the use of a floor sensor wire.

Regardless of what type of floor or baseboard heating system you are using, you likely won’t have a problem connecting.

With the built-in 15-Amp GCFI, you’ll always have the peace of mind that you need when going to bed at night or when leaving the house.

Although the SunTouch Core isn’t programmable, it does offer a similar look, design, and feel.

The bright beautifully backlit LCD screen will always keep you informed of the pertinent system settings.

With a footprint of 5” (H) x 3” (L) 2” (W), you won’t have a problem setting or monitoring your system.

Speaking of settings and monitoring, you can easily adjust temperature settings with the simple up and down buttons.

You can further customize your home’s comfort while also keeping things simple with a myriad of compatible accessories.

With over 30 years in the industry, you can rest assured you are investing in a tried and tested brand when buying the SunTouch name.

#5
Honeywell Home RLV4305A1000 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat for Electric Baseboard Heaters
Honeywell Home RLV4305A1000 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat

TRIAC silent switching technology offers an entirely new way for you to control your home’s baseboard heating system.

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The TRIAC switching technology is the first thing that I must touch on with the RLV4305A1000. It does a lot of things great.

However, it is the ability to provide comfort at lower setpoints that take make this thermostat next level.

This is all possible thanks to Honeywell’s innovative TRIAC Switching technology.

This technology changes the game with its silent switching and longer cycles.

There will be no more loud ticking or clicking when the system kicks on during the night or day.

But the best feature of the TRIAC technology is the long-running cycles.

This not only increases the efficiency of the entire system, but it eliminates temperature swings

while also offering maximum comfort.

To keep things simple, the technology basically forces the system to run longer so that it effectively pushes all the warm air into the room before shutting down.

Think of it as an indoor heat pump blower running 5 minutes longer after the heating temperature is satisfied.

The extra run time ensures all the warm air is forced out of the ducts for maximum cooling effect.

This silent TRIAC Switching technology uses virtually the same theory.

The RLV4305A1000 also enhances programming capabilities by offering the option between 5- or 2-day programming as well as 4 periods.

You’ll simply have more customized control and comfort. While the stat isn’t your traditional rectangular design, it is rather spacious at 4.88” x 1.2” x 5”.

The RLV4305A1000 offers the perfect mixture of a digital display with manual controls.

Most of the information and controls are hidden behind a swing door located on the left of the device, offering a sleeker and more innovative feel.

The patented white Honeywell color platform will easily mesh with most interior designs.

The 2-wire installation makes the installation process virtually painless.

Accurate and precise temperature control and readings right down to +/- 0.5 degrees F offer the utmost energy savings capabilities.

#6
Honeywell Home Aube TH106 Electric Heating 7-Day Programmable Thermostat
Aube By Honeywell Home TH106 Electric Heating Programmable Thermostat

A beautifully well-crafted, high-capacity electronic heating thermostat backed with TRIAC Switching technology takes your home comfort above and beyond.

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Given that the Aube TH106 was made by Honeywell Home, it features the same innovative

TRIAC Switching technology.

This offers more comfort, silent relay switching, and all-around more accuracy.

The technology is simply unbeatable when it comes to energy savings and operation is 100% silent.

This technology is unsurpassed and when backed with the on-screen indicator and brightly lit LCD screen you’re always just a glance away from your home’s comfort.

Although the screen is a bit smaller, it offers just the right information along with proper number sizing so that you can always tell what’s going on with your system with a simple glance.

The white design looks clean and offers a futuristic feel with all the hidden buttons.

The Aube TH106 features a similar design to the Honeywell at #5 with hidden controls.

However, in this design, all buttons are hidden under swingable panels.

This sleek, futuristic thermostat is compatible with a multitude of system configurations, including hot water baseboard heaters.

Don’t worry about all the configurations because installation is still as simple as it gets easy 2-wire hookups.

The timeless, classic design offers a battery backup in the event of power outages.

With fresh, new batteries, you’ll never need to worry about reprogramming your settings and schedules.

With dimensions of 4.9” x 5” x 1.5”, the Aube TH106 features a squarer design.

2-wire non-polarized connection makes the installation virtually hassle-free.

Along with the 7-day programming and 4 periods per day, you can take complete control of your home’s comfort.

The early start function ensures that your home will be warm and ready for your arrival or wake up.

Although the Aube brand is unheard-of, it is an offshoot of Honeywell.

You’ll get the same quality and dependability at just a fraction of the cost.

#7
KING ESP120-R MAX22 7-Day Programmable Electronic Line Voltage Thermostat, 3-Wire, 120V, 22A, 120-Volt
King ESP120-R Max 22 7-Day Programmable Thermostat

The King ESP120-R is king with its improved memory backup and simplistic two-button design.

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The King ESP120-R does a super job of meshing simplistic with advanced features.

It keeps things simple while also offering top-of-the-line baseboard heating technologies.

Starting with the power rating the King is superior by handling up to 22 amps with a maximum wattage load of 5280 watts at 240 volts. At 120 watts, it can handle 2640 watts.

This is much higher resistance than most stats today offer, allowing for a myriad of system configurations. The installation is as simple as connecting 3 wires.

Although the design and footprint are a bit smaller, the King really is a beautifully crafted machine with rounded corners and a backlight.

Unfortunately, the backlight isn’t as bright as I would have preferred, but King does an excellent job of displaying all the pertinent data on the screen.

With the enhanced memory backup, you’ll always retain your schedules and settings during blackouts.

Although the controls are two simplistic up and down buttons located on the front of the device, the King offers operational controls and features that mimic today’s most advanced models.

Keep things simple with the most advanced offerings. That’s where the King excels!

#8
Stelpro Z-Wave Plus KI STZW402WB+ Thermostat (White) for Electric Baseboards and Convectors
Stelpro Z-Wave Plus KI STZW402WB Thermostat

A uniquely designed baseboard thermostat with a smart and unique remote interface.

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The Stelpro Z-Wave Thermostat doesn’t just offer effective heating, it offers smart scheduling, elevated climate control, and a simplistic 2-wire connection that’ll have you up and running in minutes.

Although the thermostat is the first of its kind, it takes baseboard heating technology to the next level. Starting with the remote operation.

Download and install the corresponding app and you can control your home’s comfort from any phone or computer in the world.

Set schedules while taking advantage of the ECO mode to maximum savings. You’ll notice the biggest energy savings with minimal effort.

Even the installation requires minimal effort, with the simplistic 2-wire connection. It’s almost too easy to get wrong.

The LCD screen is a beautiful blue and brightly lit, but it is smaller. That would really be my only complaint with the Z-Wave.

Its beautifully crafted square body and blue LCD bring a new look and feel into the home.

With just an up and down button located on the front, you won’t have a problem learning to master this device.

While the Stelpro Z-Wave Brand is unheard-of, they offer around-the-clock support.

All you need to do is pick up the phone and make a call or drop them an e-mail.

You’ll get a response from a representative in as little as 24 hours.

Combine that with the 5-year manufacturer warranty and it is hard to overlook everything this thermostat offers.

#9
Honeywell Home RLV3150A1004 Non-programmable Digital Electric Heat Thermostat for Electric baseboards and convectors
Honeywell Home RLV3150A1004 Non-Programmable Digital Thermostat

Where the RLV3150A1004 is lacking in technology, it makes up for it with accuracy, dependability, and simplicity.

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Don’t look away from the RLV3150A1004 just because it doesn’t offer programming or remote connectivity.

Where it is lacking in flashy features, it counters with simplicity and dependability. Starting with 100% guaranteed silent operating.

No more loud clinking and clanking to wake up the baby during the middle of the night.

With a maximum power load of 3000 watts at 240 volts, you’ll have a multitude of system configurations available.

As far as mounting and wiring the device, this is where the RLV3150A1004 shines.

With a simplistic 2-wire connection, you’ll be up and running in just a matter of mere minutes.

The patented TRIAC technology ensures that you get the accuracy right down to 0.15 degrees C.

This offers the utmost home comfort as well as energy savings potential.

The thermostat features a beautifully well-crafted design that will likely cover most replacement models.

At dimensions of 5.36” (L) x 1” (W) x 3.86”, you should be able to get away without making major repairs to the wall.

The combination of the beautiful, bright white base with the brightly lit LCD screen and two-button interface keeps things simple yet elegant.

Unfortunately, the RLV3150A1004 is only compatible with 240-volt systems, but it is hard to overlook the simplistic yet dependable and accurate interface this model offers.

best-thermostats-hot-water-baseboard_man-adjusting-thermostat

What Has to Be Considered When Picking a Thermostat for a Hot Water Baseboard Heater?

Venturing into the wide world of thermostats knowing that you need a baseboard heater thermostat does help narrow your options.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t narrow them to the point of making the process painless.

That will require a bit more research, which I’ve already done for you.

You simply cannot go wrong with any of the models I mentioned above, as they feature today’s most advanced operational features along with the utmost technology for pinpoint temperature accuracy.

That said, if you still want to venture into the market all on your own you can. You’ll first want to start with the design and interface.

Are you looking for a programmable thermostat? Do you want remote smart capabilities?

With the technology available today, you’ll certainly want to opt for a thermostat that offers energy savings and accuracy.

Models with TRIAC and similar technologies will be something to look for. ECO modes are also good to consider.

You can opt for a digital LCD without getting into programming and scheduling.

This makes monitoring the temps easier and much more accurate.

Once you have these features out of the way, it will be a mere matter of choosing other features that matter most to you.

Use the models above as a guideline because you won’t find many models that offer more. 

Written by
Antonio Forde
I'm the head-writer @ Ask The Home Geek (or, in plain English, I'm the guy writing & editing the majority of the content here). Current learning project: Korean.
Have any questions? Write us a message.
Antonio Forde
I'm the head-writer @ Ask The Home Geek (or, in plain English, I'm the guy writing & editing the majority of the content here). Current learning project: Korean.