Do smart thermostats work with heat pumps?

Smart thermostats and heat pumps. They are two key technologies when it comes to climate control. And with more homes starting to use them, the question is whether they actually work well together. When paired correctly, they can offer energy savings and better comfort, as well as smart scheduling to make life that bit easier.

According to Research Nester, this year the global smart thermostat market is estimated at over $5bn in 2025, and is projected to see a CAGR of 20.5% to reach almost $50bn in revenue by 2037. A growing number of households are now using smart thermostats, driven by rising energy prices and an increased interest in sustainable living.

As a global leader in HVAC solutions, we have seen an increased demand for smart 

thermostats at Daikin. Our range includes options for both residential and commercial needs, featuring Wi-Fi, touchscreens, humidification control, and two-way communication. With over a century in the industry, and thousands of 5-star reviews, Daikin is in prime position to guide you through pairing up the smart thermostat with the heat pump.

Do smart thermostats work with heat pumps?

Yes, most modern smart thermostats work with single-stage and multi-stage heat pump systems.

So how do you ensure compatibility? The most important thing is to check whether the thermostat supports heat pump systems with the necessary wiring (in technical terms, this usually includes an O/B reversing valve terminal – we will look at this in more detail later. But it’s worth speaking to an expert like Daikin about this before you make the purchase.)

Benefits of pairing smart thermostats with heat pumps

The 5 main benefits of using a smart thermostat with your heat pump are energy savings, enhanced comfort, improved scheduling, remote access, and optimised year-round performance. Let’s look at these in more detail:

• Energy Savings: This is always going to be top of the list. Smart thermostats help reduce energy bills. How do they do it? By learning your habits and adjusting temperatures automatically. This alone has the potential to save you up to 10% on your annual bill because the thermostat will lower the temperature automatically even while you’re out of the house.

• Enhanced Comfort: Of course when we’re talking HVAC systems we are talking about comfort. Smart thermostats help keep temperatures consistent by using sensors and even weather forecasts to predict when they will need to heat or to cool. So your home stays comfortable no matter the season without you doing anything.

• Better Scheduling: Smart thermostats can have customised schedules that match how you live your life. Many models also offer geofencing which knows where you are (based on your phone’s location) and adjust the temperature when you leave or return home.

• Remote Access: It’s a great option to be able to control your thermostat from anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. This means you can adjust temperatures before arriving home or even while you are away on holiday. You’re always in control, even when you’re away.

• Year-Round Performance: You get more out of your heat pump as smart thermostats help your heat pump run more efficiently. It does this by monitoring system performance and letting you know when it needs maintenance.

Features to look for in a smart thermostat for heat pumps

When choosing a smart thermostat for your heat pump, look for the following features to ensure compatibility and performance: Heat pump compatibility, reversing valve support, adaptive learning, energy monitoring. Let’s look at these in more detail:

• Heat pump compatibility: Make sure the thermostat is designed to work with heat pumps. It needs to state this explicitly and should include dual-fuel systems and auxiliary heat.

• Reversing Valve Support: The smart thermostat should support O/B terminal configurations for proper switching between heating and cooling modes.

• Adaptive Learning: Look for thermostats that have learning capabilities so they can adapt to your schedule and preferences over time.

• Energy Monitoring: Built-in usage reports can help you track how much energy your system is using and help you find ways to save more.

Smart Home Integration

Whatever you choose, look for how it integrates with platforms and devices that you already have in your home. These may include Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Having your smart thermostat integrated with these systems can add even greater convenience.

Installation and Setup Tips

Installing a smart thermostat for your heat pump is usually fairly straightforward, but the following tips will help ensure smooth setup and operation.

1. Check Compatibility: Before you do anything, use the manufacturer’s compatibility checker (or consult an expert) to confirm your thermostat works with your heat pump system.
2. Label Wires Before Removing Old Thermostat: Take a photo or label each wire when removing your existing thermostat so you don’t get confused during installation of the new smart thermostat.
3. Use a C-Wire or Power Extender Kit: Most smart thermostats require a constant power source, often via a C-wire. If your system doesn’t have one then you may need to get a power extender.
4. Follow the App Instructions: Most smart thermostats offer guided setup via mobile apps which makes life easier. Follow these step-by-step instructions to configure settings and connect to Wi-Fi.
5. Test Both Heating and Cooling Modes: Once you have installed your new smart thermostat, test your heat pump in both heating and cooling modes to ensure the reversing valve is wired properly and functioning as normal.

FAQs About Smart Thermostats and Heat Pumps

Can smart thermostats control both heating and cooling with a heat pump?

Yes, smart thermostats can manage both functions because they use the reversing valve in your heat pump system.

Will a smart thermostat work with an older heat pump system?

A lot of them will work but it does depend on the specific wiring and control board. As mentioned above, check compatibility or consult with a technician.

Do I need Wi-Fi for the thermostat to work with my heat pump?

No, you don’t. Basic functions will still work without Wi-Fi but remote access and smart features will need an internet connection.

How do smart thermostats save energy with heat pumps?

They learn your preferences and adjust temperatures based on whether you are occupying the space as well as the weather forecast. They do this over time, getting smarter the longer you use them.

About Daikin

Daikin began back in 1924 and today is a global leader in HVAC technology. We offer cutting-edge solutions for residential and commercial use and with over 90,000 employees worldwide, Daikin is trusted by millions for reliable, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. 

Contact the Daikin team for personalised support on choosing the best smart thermostat for your heat pump.