Honeywell RTH230B Manual / Installation & User Guide

Looking for the Honeywell RTH230B manual, installation guide, or user instructions? You’ve come to the right place. On this page, you can view or download the complete PDF manual for the Honeywell RTH230B 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat. Whether you’re installing it for the first time, troubleshooting an issue, or learning how to program it, this guide covers everything from wiring connections to temperature programming and energy-saving features.

📘View & Download Honeywell RTH230B Manual / Installation & User Guide PDF

You can easily view the Honeywell RTH230B Installation & User Manual online or download it as a PDF for offline reference.

This detailed manual provides all essential information such as:

  • Installation instructions
  • Wiring diagrams
  • Programming schedules
  • Troubleshooting steps
  • Thermostat specifications

What is a Programmable Electronic Thermostat?

A programmable electronic thermostat like the Honeywell RTH230B automatically controls your home’s heating and cooling system according to pre-set temperature schedules.
It helps you save energy and enhance comfort by automatically adjusting temperature settings during different times of the day. With programmable thermostats, you no longer need to manually change settings every time the weather changes — the system does it for you.

The Honeywell RTH230B is a 5-2 day programmable model, meaning you can set one schedule for weekdays and another for weekends, providing flexibility and efficiency for your lifestyle.

Honeywell RTH230B – 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat Key Features / Operating Manual Specifications

Introduction

The Honeywell home RTH230B thermostat offers an affordable and energy-efficient way to control your home’s temperature. This section provides installation, operation, and programming instructions.

1. Removing the Old Thermostat

Before starting, always turn off the power to your heating and cooling system at the main electrical panel to prevent electrical shock.

  1. Remove the cover of the existing thermostat carefully using a screwdriver if necessary.
  2. Observe the wiring connections on the old unit. Each wire should be labeled (e.g., R, W, Y, G, C).
  3. Use small sticky labels or masking tape to mark each wire according to its terminal letter.
  4. Disconnect the wires gently and make sure they do not fall back into the wall.
  5. Remove the old mounting plate or baseplate.
  6. If your previous thermostat contained mercury, follow your local hazardous waste disposal procedures.

This step is crucial because improper wire labeling or connection can cause the system to malfunction.

2. Installing the New Baseplate

  1. Position the Honeywell RTH230B baseplate on the wall, making sure the wires feed through the center opening.
  2. Use a spirit level to ensure the baseplate is mounted straight.
  3. Mark drilling holes and install wall anchors if the old mounting holes do not align.
  4. Secure the baseplate with screws.
  5. Confirm that the wires are accessible and not pinched behind the plate.

The baseplate must be properly mounted because it supports the thermostat body and ensures accurate temperature sensing.

3. Connecting the Thermostat

Follow the wiring diagram provided in the RTH230B user manual:

  • R (Power) – Connected to transformer or heating system power.
  • W (Heat) – Controls heating system.
  • Y (Cool) – Controls cooling system.
  • G (Fan) – Controls fan relay.
  • C (Common) – Provides continuous power (if required).

Tighten each terminal screw gently to avoid wire breakage. After wiring, gently attach the thermostat faceplate to the mounted baseplate until it clicks into place.


Basic Functions of RTH230B Thermostat

The Honeywell RTH230B can be used in different wiring configurations depending on the type of HVAC system. Here are the supported modes:

1. Wire Heating

Used for simple heating systems like furnaces or boilers.

  • Connect R to W.
  • No fan or cooling functions.

2. Wire Cooling

Used for systems that only provide cooling.

  • Connect R to Y.

3. Wire Heating

Includes fan control in addition to heating.

  • Connect R, W, and G.

4. Wire Cooling

Includes fan and compressor control.

  • Connect R, Y, and G.

5. Wire Heating and Cooling

This is the most common configuration.

  • Connect R, W, Y, and G.
  • Supports both heating and cooling control.

6. Wire Heating and Cooling

Used when a C (common) wire is available to provide constant power to the thermostat.

  • Connect R, W, Y, G, and C.
  • Recommended for enhanced system stability and battery-free operation.

Setting J2 Jumper

The J2 jumper is a small pin located on the thermostat’s circuit board that defines the type of heating system being controlled:

  • Position 1 (Gas or Oil Furnace): The fan is controlled by the furnace.
  • Position 2 (Electric Furnace): The fan is controlled by the thermostat.

Ensure the jumper is positioned correctly according to your HVAC system type before installation completion.


Installing the Batteries

The Honeywell RTH230B uses two AA alkaline batteries.

  • Insert the batteries into the back compartment following the polarity (+/-) marks.
  • Once installed, the LCD display will activate.
  • Batteries typically last around one year. Replace them when the “Low Battery” icon appears.

Always use high-quality batteries to ensure reliable operation and maintain programming memory during power interruptions.


Completing the Installation

After the wiring and battery installation:

  1. Reattach the thermostat cover onto the baseplate.
  2. Restore power at the circuit breaker.
  3. Verify that the display lights up and the system responds to commands.
  4. Set the date, time, and temperature preferences.
  5. Test heating and cooling functions to ensure proper wiring.

Your thermostat is now ready for configuration and daily use.


Configuration Menu of 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat RTH230B

Accessing the configuration menu allows you to fine-tune system settings.

  • Step 1: Press and hold the “Menu” button for 3 seconds.
  • Step 2: Use the “▲” and “▼” arrows to navigate between settings.
  • Step 3: Adjust display preferences such as °C/°F, time format, and system type.
  • Step 4: Press “Run” to exit and save settings.

The configuration menu ensures your thermostat adapts to your HVAC system and user preferences seamlessly.


Programming

1. Fan Operating Mode

There are two fan settings:

  • Auto: Fan runs only when heating or cooling is active.
  • On: Fan runs continuously to circulate air even when the system is off.
    Continuous fan operation can improve air quality and temperature consistency throughout the home.

2. Displaying the Temperature

The large LCD screen displays:

  • Current room temperature
  • Setpoint temperature
  • Mode indicator (Heat/Cool/Auto)
  • Battery status
    This makes it simple to monitor indoor comfort at a glance.

3. Setting the Temperature

To adjust the temperature manually:

  • Press the “▲” or “▼” buttons until the desired temperature appears.
  • The thermostat will maintain that temperature until the next programmed period begins.

Thermostat Control Mode

1. Manual / Permanent Hold Mode

In this mode, the thermostat maintains a fixed temperature setting continuously. It’s ideal when you prefer a constant indoor temperature or when you’re home for extended periods.

2. Programmable Mode

The Programmable Mode enables scheduling of different temperatures for weekday and weekend periods. The RTH230B supports four time periods per day:

  1. Wake – When you wake up in the morning
  2. Leave – When you’re away from home
  3. Return – When you arrive back home
  4. Sleep – When you go to bed

Each period allows custom start times and temperature settings, maximizing comfort and energy efficiency.


Temporary Bypass of Honeywell Home RTH230B

You can override the programmed temperature temporarily without deleting the existing schedule. Simply use the “▲” or “▼” buttons to set a new temperature. The thermostat will hold that temperature until the next scheduled period automatically resumes.

Filter Replacement Indicator

The Filter Reminder Indicator notifies you when it’s time to clean or replace your HVAC filter. This ensures efficient operation, prevents dust buildup, and extends the life of your system. Reset the reminder after changing the filter to maintain accurate tracking.


Specifications of Honeywell RTH230B Owner Guide

  • Display Type: Digital LCD with backlight
  • Temperature Control Range: 40°F to 90°F (4°C to 32°C)
  • Accuracy: ±1°F (±0.5°C)
  • Power Source: 2 AA batteries or C-wire (if available)
  • System Compatibility:
    • Gas, oil, or electric furnaces
    • Central air conditioning
    • Heat pumps (without auxiliary heat)
    • 24V systems

1. Energy-Saving Schedule

Honeywell’s recommended pre-programmed energy-saving schedule helps reduce heating and cooling costs:

Weekdays (Mon–Fri):

  • Wake: 6:00 AM – 70°F
  • Leave: 8:00 AM – 62°F
  • Return: 6:00 PM – 70°F
  • Sleep: 10:00 PM – 62°F

Weekends (Sat–Sun):

  • Wake: 8:00 AM – 70°F
  • Leave: 10:00 AM – 64°F
  • Return: 6:00 PM – 70°F
  • Sleep: 11:00 PM – 64°F

You can modify these times and temperatures to match your comfort and energy-saving needs.

2. Modifying the Schedule

To edit the schedule:

  1. Press Prog to enter programming mode.
  2. Select Weekday (5 days) or Weekend (2 days) schedule.
  3. Use arrow keys to adjust the start time and temperature for each period.
  4. Press Prog again to move to the next period.
  5. Press Run when finished to save changes.

Regular schedule optimization can save up to 30% on annual heating and cooling costs, according to Honeywell energy studies.

FAQs

Honeywell RTH230B Troubleshooting

If your thermostat is not functioning properly:
No display: Check or replace the batteries.
System not turning on: Verify wiring connections and ensure circuit power is ON.
Temperature not accurate: Calibrate or relocate the thermostat away from heat sources.

How to Program a Honeywell RTH230B

Press Prog to enter programming mode.
Set the weekday schedule (Wake, Leave, Return, Sleep).
Set the weekend schedule.
Press Run to save and activate your program.

Connecting Honeywell RTH230B Thermostat

Refer to the wiring diagram in the installation section. Match terminal labels and ensure power is off during connection.

How to Reset Honeywell RTH230B

Press and hold the Program and Run buttons simultaneously for a few seconds. This will reset the thermostat to factory defaults.

Does Honeywell RTH230B Work with Heat Pumps?

Yes, the RTH230B can be used with single-stage heating and cooling systems, including some heat pumps. Check compatibility before installation.

How to Replace Batteries in RTH230B

Open the battery compartment on the back and replace with two new AA alkaline batteries every 12 months or when “Low Battery” appears.

Conclusion

The Honeywell RTH230B 5-2 Day Programmable Thermostat is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking reliable temperature control and energy savings. By following the installation steps, configuration guide, and programming instructions in this manual, you can ensure optimal performance of your thermostat.

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