Honeywell RTH5160D1003 Thermostat: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide details the Honeywell RTH5160D1003, a non-programmable thermostat. PDF manuals and quick installation guides are readily available online for user assistance.
Installation is straightforward, with step-by-step instructions provided in the included documentation and helpful video tutorials. Proper disposal and recycling instructions are also crucial.
The Honeywell RTH5160D1003 is a user-friendly, non-programmable thermostat designed for simple and reliable temperature control within your home. It offers a straightforward alternative to more complex, programmable models, making it ideal for those seeking ease of use. This thermostat features a simple display, providing clear readings of the current and set temperatures.
As indicated in available quick installation guides and PDF manuals, the RTH5160D1003 is designed for easy installation, though professional installation is always recommended if you are unfamiliar with HVAC wiring. It’s compatible with a wide range of heating and cooling systems. The thermostat allows for manual control of both heating and cooling, with options for fan operation in ‘Auto’ or ‘On’ modes.
Understanding the basic functions and settings, detailed in the user manual, ensures optimal performance and energy efficiency. This thermostat prioritizes simplicity, offering essential climate control without the complexities of scheduling or advanced features. It’s a dependable choice for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.
What’s Included in the Box
Upon opening the Honeywell RTH5160D1003 package, you’ll find the essential components needed for installation. The box contains the thermostat display unit itself, which features the temperature display and control buttons. A separate thermostat baseplate is included; this is the component that mounts to the wall and connects to your HVAC system’s wiring.
Crucially, a quick installation guide is provided, offering step-by-step instructions to assist with the setup process. While detailed PDF manuals are available online for more in-depth information, the quick guide is a helpful starting point. Mounting screws and wall anchors are also included to securely attach the baseplate to various wall types.
It’s important to note that wire labels are typically included to aid in identifying the existing wiring during installation. However, specialized tools, discussed in the installation section, are not typically included and must be purchased separately. Always verify all components are present before beginning the installation process.
Safety Precautions & Warnings
Prior to installing the Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat, disconnect power to your HVAC system at the breaker box to avoid electrical shock. This is a critical safety precaution. Improper wiring can damage your system or create a fire hazard, so proceed with caution.

Always refer to the complete PDF manual for detailed safety guidelines. The thermostat is designed for indoor use only and should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Keep the device dry to prevent electrical malfunction.
Proper disposal of the old thermostat is essential. Many contain mercury, a hazardous material. Consult your local waste management authority for instructions on recycling or safely disposing of your old thermostat – do not treat it as regular household waste. Alert: Handle as Hazardous Household Waste (HHW) according to local regulations.

Installation Process
Installing the RTH5160D1003 involves gathering necessary tools, understanding the wiring diagram, and carefully connecting the thermostat to your existing HVAC system.
Tools Required for Installation
Before beginning the installation of your Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat, ensure you have the necessary tools readily available. A small, flathead screwdriver is essential for tightening terminal screws and accessing the thermostat’s wiring compartment. A Phillips head screwdriver may also be needed, depending on your wall mounting screws.
Additionally, a wire stripper or cutter will be required to prepare the thermostat wires for connection. Carefully stripping the insulation without damaging the wire itself is crucial for a secure and reliable connection. A voltage tester is highly recommended to verify that power is completely shut off to your HVAC system before commencing any wiring work – safety first!
A level will help ensure the thermostat base is mounted straight on the wall, providing a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Finally, a pencil is useful for marking screw holes and wiring configurations. Having these tools prepared beforehand will streamline the installation process and minimize frustration.
Wiring Diagram Overview
Understanding the wiring diagram is paramount for a successful RTH5160D1003 installation. The thermostat utilizes standard HVAC wiring conventions, typically involving terminals labeled R, C, W, Y, and G. ‘R’ signifies 24V power, while ‘C’ is the common wire – often required for consistent operation.

‘W’ represents heat, ‘Y’ cooling, and ‘G’ the fan. However, specific wiring configurations can vary based on your HVAC system type (gas, electric, heat pump). Carefully consult your existing thermostat’s wiring and compare it to the RTH5160D1003’s wiring diagram, found in the installation guide.
Incorrect wiring can damage your HVAC equipment or the thermostat itself. If you are unsure about any aspect of the wiring process, it is strongly advised to consult a qualified HVAC technician. A user manual provides a step-by-step guide to help you install, operate, and maintain your new thermostat.
Connecting the Thermostat to Your HVAC System
Before connecting the RTH5160D1003, ensure power is completely shut off to your HVAC system at the breaker box. This is a critical safety precaution. Carefully remove your old thermostat, labeling each wire as you disconnect it – a photograph can be incredibly helpful.
Using the wiring diagram as a guide, connect each labeled wire to the corresponding terminal on the RTH5160D1003 thermostat base. Ensure wires are securely fastened to prevent loose connections. Double-check all connections against the diagram before proceeding.
If your system requires a ‘C’ wire (common wire) and one wasn’t previously connected, you may need to consult an HVAC professional for assistance. Once all wires are securely connected, gently push any excess wire back into the wall. Restore power at the breaker box and proceed to the next step.
Mounting the Thermostat Base
After wiring, carefully position the RTH5160D1003 thermostat base on the wall where your old thermostat was located. Use a level to ensure the base is perfectly straight – this is important for accurate temperature readings and a professional appearance.
Mark the screw holes through the baseplate using a pencil. Drill pilot holes at the marked locations, using a drill bit appropriate for your wall material. If drilling into drywall, consider using wall anchors for added stability.
Secure the thermostat base to the wall using the provided screws. Ensure the base is firmly attached and doesn’t wobble. Gently tuck any excess wiring back into the wall cavity. The base should now be securely mounted, ready to receive the thermostat display unit.
Attaching the Thermostat Display
Once the base is securely mounted, carefully align the thermostat display with the base. Gently push the display onto the base – it should click into place, establishing a secure connection. Do not force it; if it doesn’t align easily, double-check the base’s orientation and wiring.
Ensure the display is firmly seated and doesn’t feel loose. A proper connection is vital for the thermostat to function correctly. The display should now be powered on automatically, showing the current temperature and system status.
Verify that all buttons on the display are responsive. If the display doesn’t power on, re-examine the wiring connections and ensure the thermostat base is receiving power. Refer to the quick installation guide for visual aids if needed.
Operating Instructions
The RTH5160D1003 features a simple display for manual temperature control. Users can adjust settings for heat, cool, and fan operation easily.
Understanding the Display
The Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat boasts a straightforward, easy-to-read display designed for simplicity. The primary focus is the current room temperature, prominently displayed in a large, clear format. Adjacent to this, you’ll find the set temperature, indicating your desired heating or cooling point.
Icons clearly indicate the current system mode – whether it’s in Heat, Cool, or Off mode. A separate icon denotes the fan setting, showing if it’s set to Auto (fan runs only during heating/cooling) or On (fan runs continuously). The display also provides visual cues for system status, such as when the heating or cooling system is actively running.
Menu options, accessible via the buttons, allow for adjustments to system settings. While not a programmable thermostat, the display provides all the necessary information for manual operation and monitoring of your home’s temperature. The simple interface ensures ease of use for all users, eliminating complex navigation or confusing features.
Setting the Temperature (Manual Mode)
To adjust the temperature on your Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat in manual mode, utilize the “Up” and “Down” arrow buttons located on the thermostat face. Each press of these buttons will incrementally increase or decrease the set temperature by one degree; Observe the display to confirm the desired temperature is selected.
The thermostat will then activate the heating or cooling system to reach and maintain the set temperature, depending on the currently selected System Mode (Heat, Cool, or Off). There is no scheduling function with this non-programmable model; temperature adjustments are always immediate and continuous;

Ensure the set temperature is comfortable for your needs and energy efficiency goals. The thermostat responds promptly to adjustments, providing quick control over your home’s climate. Remember to allow sufficient time for the system to respond to temperature changes, especially with significant adjustments.
Fan Control Options (Auto/On)
The Honeywell RTH5160D1003 offers two distinct fan control settings: “Auto” and “On”. The “Auto” setting is the default and most energy-efficient option. In this mode, the fan operates only during heating or cooling cycles, circulating air when the system is actively working to adjust the temperature.
Selecting the “On” setting forces the fan to run continuously, regardless of whether the heating or cooling system is engaged. This provides constant air circulation, which can be beneficial for distributing air more evenly throughout your home, but it will consume more energy.

To switch between these modes, use the “Fan” button on the thermostat. The display will indicate the currently selected setting. Consider your comfort preferences and energy-saving goals when choosing the appropriate fan control option.
System Mode Selection (Heat/Cool/Off)
The RTH5160D1003 thermostat allows you to select between three primary system modes: “Heat,” “Cool,” and “Off.” The “Heat” mode activates your heating system when the room temperature falls below the setpoint, providing warmth. Conversely, the “Cool” mode activates your air conditioning when the temperature rises above the setpoint, delivering cooling.
The “Off” mode disables both the heating and cooling systems, allowing for manual control or when no temperature regulation is desired. To cycle through these modes, utilize the “System” button on the thermostat’s interface. The currently selected mode will be clearly displayed on the screen.
Ensure the correct mode is selected based on the season and your comfort needs. Incorrect mode selection can lead to inefficient operation or discomfort. Regularly verify the mode setting for optimal performance.

Advanced Features & Settings
The RTH5160D1003 offers system changeover configuration (manual/automatic) and heat stage settings. Users can adjust these options via the thermostat’s menu for customized control.
System Changeover Configuration (Manual/Automatic)
The Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat allows you to select between manual and automatic system changeover, dictating how the thermostat switches between heating and cooling modes. Manual changeover requires you to physically switch the system mode (Heat/Cool/Off) on the thermostat, providing complete control but demanding user intervention. This is ideal if you anticipate prolonged periods needing only one mode.
Automatic changeover, conversely, allows the thermostat to intelligently switch between heating and cooling based on the set temperature and the current room temperature. The thermostat monitors the temperature and automatically activates the appropriate system to maintain your desired comfort level.
To configure this setting, access the thermostat’s menu. The manual indicates setting the value to ‘0’ for manual operation and ‘1’ for automatic. Selecting automatic simplifies operation, while manual provides granular control. Note that the thermostat can automatically control the system based on your chosen setting.
Heat Stage Configuration
The Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat’s heat stage configuration allows customization based on your heating system’s capabilities. This setting determines how the thermostat manages the heating process, particularly relevant for multi-stage heating systems. If your system only has a single heating stage, the configuration is straightforward.
However, systems with multiple stages (e.g., low and high heat) benefit from proper configuration to optimize efficiency and comfort. The thermostat can be set to utilize these stages, starting with lower heat and progressing to higher stages as needed to reach the set temperature.
According to the manual, you set the value to ‘0’ if you do not have a heat stage. This effectively disables multi-stage functionality. Proper configuration ensures the thermostat effectively controls your heating system, maximizing comfort and minimizing energy consumption. Incorrect settings may lead to inefficient operation or discomfort.
Backup Heat Stage Configuration
The RTH5160D1003 thermostat offers a backup heat stage configuration, crucial for systems employing auxiliary or emergency heat sources. This feature is particularly important in colder climates where the primary heating system might struggle to maintain the desired temperature during extreme weather.
The backup heat stage typically utilizes a different heating source, such as electric resistance heat, to supplement the primary system. Configuring this stage correctly ensures it activates only when necessary, preventing unnecessary energy consumption. The manual indicates setting the value to ‘0’ if you do not have a backup heat stage.
Proper configuration involves defining the temperature differential at which the backup heat engages. This ensures the primary system is utilized as much as possible, with the backup heat kicking in only when the primary system cannot meet the heating demand. Accurate setup optimizes efficiency and comfort, providing reliable heating even in challenging conditions.
Troubleshooting & Support
Common issues have solutions detailed in the manual. Factory resets are possible, and proper thermostat disposal/recycling instructions are available online.
Common Issues and Solutions
Addressing common problems with your Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat is often straightforward. If the display is blank, first verify the power supply – check the batteries or the HVAC system’s power switch. A flickering display might indicate low batteries, requiring immediate replacement.
If your system isn’t responding to temperature changes, double-check the wiring connections against the manual’s wiring diagram. Ensure all wires are securely fastened to the correct terminals. Incorrect wiring is a frequent cause of operational issues. For heating or cooling not functioning, confirm the system mode is set correctly (Heat, Cool, or Off).
If the thermostat seems to be stuck in a particular mode, attempt a reset to factory defaults (refer to the ‘Resetting the Thermostat’ section). Remember to consult the manual for detailed troubleshooting steps and diagrams. Online resources and PDF manuals offer further assistance, providing visual aids and expanded explanations for resolving various issues.
Resetting the Thermostat to Factory Defaults
Resetting your Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat to its factory defaults can resolve certain operational issues or prepare it for a new installation. While the exact procedure isn’t explicitly detailed in all quick guides, it generally involves accessing the thermostat’s menu system.
Typically, this is achieved by pressing and holding the ‘Menu’ and ‘Fan’ buttons simultaneously for a specified duration – often around five to ten seconds. The display should indicate a reset confirmation. Note that resetting will erase any custom settings, returning the thermostat to its original, out-of-the-box configuration;
Consult the full PDF manual available online for precise instructions specific to your model. Before resetting, document any customized settings you wish to retain, as you’ll need to re-enter them post-reset. This process is useful for troubleshooting unresponsive behavior or preparing the thermostat for a different HVAC system.
Proper Disposal of the Thermostat (Recycling Instructions)
Responsible disposal of your Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat is crucial for environmental protection. This device contains electronic components that should not be discarded with regular household waste; Improper disposal can lead to hazardous materials contaminating the environment.
Recycling is the preferred method; Contact your local waste management authority or municipal recycling center for specific instructions regarding electronic waste (e-waste) disposal in your area. Many communities offer designated drop-off locations or collection events for electronic devices.
The manual highlights the importance of adhering to local regulations concerning Hazardous Household Waste (HHW). Do not attempt to disassemble the thermostat yourself, as this could expose you to potentially harmful substances. Prioritize environmentally sound practices when retiring your thermostat.
Where to Find Additional Support & Documentation (PDF Manuals)
Comprehensive support and documentation for your Honeywell RTH5160D1003 thermostat are readily accessible online. Numerous resources are available to assist with installation, operation, and troubleshooting. A quick installation guide in PDF format is easily found through a simple web search.

Detailed manuals, including installation and instruction guides, can be downloaded directly from various websites specializing in appliance documentation. These PDF versions offer in-depth explanations and diagrams to aid understanding. Video tutorials demonstrating the installation process are also widely available on platforms like YouTube.
If you require further assistance, Honeywell’s official website is a valuable resource. You can find FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and contact information for their customer support team. Ensure you have your model number (RTH5160D1003) handy when seeking support.