My Honeywell programmable thermostat says "in recovery". What does that mean?

Question

We replaced the unit 4 days ago but ever once in a while the thermostat says "in recovery".

Answer 1

Your Honeywell programmable thermostat must be one with their "Smart Response" technology.  The Smart Response technology calculates the correct time of day to turn on your heating or cooling system. Smart Response technology considers the following information:

- Air temperature

- Wall temperature

- The time of day when you want the comfort temperature established

When the thermostat activates Smart Response technology, the thermostat displays "In Recovery", changes the setpoint, and turns on the system.  Your Honeywell thermostat learns from experience. Each day it checks how closely it hit the recovery target and then adjusts the next day's recovery start time accordingly.

It takes a few days after installation for the thermostat to adjust to the local weather, your lifestyle, the construction of your home, and your heating/cooling system.

If you prefer, you can turn off Smart Response technology by selecting Conventional Recovery.  See the manual that came with your particular unit for more information.