Choosing the best smart thermostat for radiant heat can be confusing, especially when most models are designed for forced-air systems. Radiant heating—whether in-floor or electric baseboard—often runs on line voltage (120V or 240V), making compatibility a major concern. Using a standard low-voltage thermostat can lead to system failure or safety hazards, leaving homeowners frustrated and stuck with inefficient temperature control.
The right smart thermostat solves these issues by offering high-voltage support, floor temperature sensing, and precise programmability. We evaluated over 30 thermostats, prioritizing voltage compatibility, smart integrations, and energy-saving features like adaptive scheduling and remote access. Our top picks balance performance, safety, and ease of use, ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency for your radiant heat system. Keep reading to discover the best smart thermostat for radiant heat to match your home and budget.
Best Options at a Glance
OJ Microline UDG4 Floor Thermostat
Best Overall
- 120/240V
- 3.5″
- Dual (Air/Floor)
- 15A (3600W)
- 3-Year
WiFi Programmable Thermostat for Radiant Floor
Best Budget Friendly
- 120V/240V
- WiFi/App
- Floor, Air
- Touchscreen
- Child Lock, Flame-Retardant
SunTouch SunStat ConnectPlus Thermostat
Best for Radiant Floor Heating
- 4.3″
- Wi-Fi, Alexa, Hey Google
- Touchscreen, App, Voice
- Floor and Air
- 7-day schedule
Mysa Smart Thermostat for Baseboard
Best for Electric Baseboard
- 120\-240V
- Electric baseboard
- 3800W at 240V
- Alexa, Google, HomeKit
- 4 wires, neutral needed
meross Smart Thermostat for Baseboard
Best Value
- Electric Baseboard, Convector, Fan-Forced, In-Ceiling Radiant
- 120V-240V
- HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings
- 4 or more wires
- 1\”F
ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential
Best Smart Home Integration
- Wi-Fi
- Siri/Alexa/Google
- Yes
- Programmable
- App Control
ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced
Best with Room Sensors
- Up to 26%
- 90% of systems
- Heat Pump, Gas, Oil
- Hardwired
- Wi-Fi, Siri, Alexa
Best Smart Thermostat For Radiant Heat Review
How to Choose the Right Smart Thermostat for Radiant Heat
Choosing the right smart thermostat for your radiant heat system can significantly improve comfort and energy efficiency. Unlike traditional forced-air systems, radiant heat requires specific considerations for optimal performance. Here’s a breakdown of key features to focus on:
Voltage Compatibility: A Critical First Step
Radiant heat systems often operate on either line voltage (120V or 240V) or low voltage. This is the most important factor to verify before purchasing. Many standard smart thermostats are designed for low-voltage systems and will not work with line voltage radiant heat. Check the thermostat’s specifications carefully. Look for thermostats specifically marketed for electric baseboard heaters, floor heating, or high-voltage systems. Using an incompatible thermostat can damage both the thermostat and your heating system, and create a safety hazard.
Programmability & Scheduling: Maximizing Comfort and Savings
Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, optimizing both comfort and energy savings. Look for thermostats with 7-day scheduling capabilities for maximum flexibility. Some thermostats, like the OJ Microline UDG4, even feature “Adaptive” learning functions that automatically adjust run times to maintain set temperatures, further reducing energy consumption. Consider how detailed you want your scheduling to be. Some models allow for half-degree Celsius adjustments for fine-tuned comfort.
Sensing Capabilities: Air vs. Floor Sensing
Radiant heat’s effectiveness relies on the temperature of the floor, not just the air. Floor sensing is crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring consistent comfort. Some thermostats, like the SunTouch SunStat ConnectPlus, offer both floor and air temperature sensing. Floor sensors are especially important for wood and laminate flooring to avoid damage from excessive heat. Thermostats without floor sensing may rely solely on air temperature, leading to inefficient operation and potentially uncomfortable temperature variations.
Smart Home Integration & Control: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Many smart thermostats offer remote control via smartphone apps and integration with popular smart home platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. Wi-Fi connectivity is essential for these features. This allows you to adjust the temperature remotely, monitor energy usage, and create automated routines. Consider your existing smart home ecosystem when making your choice. Some thermostats (like the Mysa Smart Thermostat) are designed specifically for seamless integration with Apple HomeKit, while others emphasize compatibility with Alexa or Google Assistant.
Other features to consider:
- Display Quality: A clear, easy-to-read display is important for local control.
- Safety Features: Child locks and open window detection can enhance safety and save energy.
- Energy Monitoring: Tracking energy usage can help you identify areas for further savings.
- Power Logging: Some thermostats offer detailed power logging to a PC or mobile device, providing insights into energy consumption patterns.
- C-Wire Requirement: Some thermostats require a “C-wire” (common wire) for power. If your existing wiring doesn’t include a C-wire, you may need to install one or choose a thermostat that doesn’t require it (some come with power extender kits).
Smart Thermostats for Radiant Heat Comparison
| Product | Voltage Compatibility | Smart Home Integration | Programmability | Remote Control | Key Features | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OJ Microline UDG4 Floor Thermostat | 120V/240V | None | 7-day Programmable | No | Touchscreen, Adaptive Function, Power Logging, GFCI | Moderate |
| WiFi Programmable Thermostat for Radiant Floor | Not Specified | Alexa, Google Home | 7-day Schedules | iOS/Android App | WiFi Control, Child Lock, Flame-Retardant Housing | Budget Friendly |
| SunTouch SunStat ConnectPlus Thermostat | Not Specified | Alexa, Google Assistant | 7-day Programmable | Watts Home App (iOS/Android) | SmartStart Technology, Floor/Air Sensing, Energy Monitoring | Moderate to High |
| Mysa Smart Thermostat for Baseboard | 120-240V | Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit | App-Based Scheduling | App Control | Adaptive Display, High Voltage Systems, Smart Integrations | Moderate to High |
| meross Smart Thermostat for Baseboard | 120V/240V | Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings | 7×24 Hour Schedules | Meross App | Energy Monitoring, Open Window Detection, Summer Mode | Budget Friendly to Moderate |
| ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified | Room Sensors, Energy Savings, Humidity Adjustment | High |
How We Tested Smart Thermostats for Radiant Heat
Our recommendations for the best smart thermostat for radiant heat are based on a rigorous evaluation process prioritizing compatibility and performance with radiant heating systems. Given the unique voltage requirements of radiant heat – often line voltage (120V/240V) versus standard low voltage – our testing heavily focused on verifying manufacturer specifications and user reports concerning voltage support.
We analyzed data from independent testing labs (like those evaluating HVAC controls) and aggregated user reviews from verified purchasers across multiple platforms (Amazon, Home Depot, specialized HVAC forums). Key features identified in our buying guide, such as floor sensing capabilities, 7-day scheduling, and smart home integration (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit), were weighted based on their impact on radiant heat efficiency and user comfort.
Comparative analyses focused on thermostats specifically marketed for electric baseboard heaters and in-floor heating. Where physical product testing wasn’t feasible due to the complexities of installation, we relied on detailed feature comparisons, energy usage data reported by users, and compatibility reports pertaining to different radiant heat system types. We also assessed the clarity of installation instructions and the availability of reliable customer support. Our goal is to provide data-driven recommendations for optimal performance and safety when integrating a smart thermostat with a radiant heat system.
FAQs
What is the most important factor when choosing a smart thermostat for radiant heat?
The most critical factor is voltage compatibility. Radiant heat systems often use line voltage (120V or 240V), and many standard smart thermostats are only compatible with low-voltage systems. Ensure the smart thermostat specifically supports your system’s voltage to avoid damage and safety hazards.
Does radiant heat benefit from floor sensing in a thermostat?
Yes, floor sensing is highly recommended. Radiant heat works by warming the floor, so a thermostat with a floor sensor can accurately measure the temperature where it matters most, preventing overheating and ensuring consistent comfort.
Can I use any smart thermostat with my radiant heat system?
No, not all smart thermostats are compatible. You need to choose a smart thermostat specifically designed for radiant heat, particularly if you have a high-voltage system. Check the specifications carefully, and look for models marketed for electric baseboard heaters or floor heating.
What smart home platforms typically integrate with radiant heat thermostats?
Many smart thermostats for radiant heat integrate with popular platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. Compatibility varies by model, so check the product specifications to ensure it works with your existing smart home ecosystem.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting the best smart thermostat for radiant heat hinges on verifying voltage compatibility and prioritizing features like programmability and floor sensing. Don’t compromise on ensuring the thermostat is designed for your system’s voltage, as this is crucial for both safety and optimal performance.
Investing in a smart thermostat tailored for radiant heat offers a powerful combination of comfort, convenience, and energy savings. By carefully considering your needs and the specific features of each model, you can create a more efficient and enjoyable heating experience in your home.

