1. Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Honeywell RTHL3550D Digital Heat/Cool Thermostat. This non-programmable thermostat offers simple manual control for your heating and cooling system, featuring a large backlit digital display for easy viewing.

Front view of the Honeywell RTHL3550D thermostat, displaying the current room temperature and the set temperature for cooling, along with fan and system modes.
2. Important Safety Information
Always follow basic safety precautions when installing and operating this product to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury.
- Turn off power: Disconnect power to the heating/cooling system at the main fuse or circuit breaker panel before installation or servicing.
- Voltage: This thermostat is designed for 24 Volt systems. Do not use it with line voltage systems (120/240V).
- Professional Installation: If you are unsure about wiring, consult a qualified electrician or HVAC technician.
- Battery Safety: Use only specified battery types (2 AA batteries). Do not mix old and new batteries, or different types of batteries. Dispose of used batteries properly.
3. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- Honeywell RTHL3550D Digital Thermostat Unit
- Mounting Hardware (screws and wall anchors)
- User Manual
4. Installation Guide
Follow these steps to install your new thermostat. Ensure power is off before beginning.
4.1. Power Off
Locate the circuit breaker or fuse box that controls your heating and cooling system and turn off the power. Verify the power is off by attempting to turn on your old thermostat.
4.2. Remove Old Thermostat
Carefully remove the cover of your old thermostat. Disconnect the wires one by one, labeling each wire with the terminal designation from your old thermostat (e.g., R, G, Y, W). This is crucial for correct wiring of the new unit. Once all wires are disconnected, remove the old thermostat's mounting plate from the wall.
4.3. Mount New Thermostat Base
Position the new thermostat's mounting base against the wall where the old thermostat was. Use the provided screws and wall anchors to secure the base to the wall. Ensure the base is level for aesthetic purposes.
4.4. Wire the Thermostat
Connect the labeled wires to the corresponding terminals on the new Honeywell RTHL3550D thermostat base. Refer to the wiring diagram provided with your thermostat for specific connections. This thermostat is designed for 24V systems. Note that the thermostat unit itself is battery-powered, so a common wire (C-wire) is not strictly required for its operation, but it is essential for system control.

An angled perspective of the Honeywell RTHL3550D thermostat, providing a clearer look at its physical design and the illuminated digital display, useful for understanding wiring access.
4.5. Install Batteries
Open the battery compartment on the back of the thermostat unit. Insert two fresh AA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-). The thermostat requires batteries for operation and to retain settings during power outages.
4.6. Attach Thermostat to Base
Align the thermostat unit with the mounted base and gently push it into place until it clicks securely.
4.7. Power On
Restore power to your heating/cooling system at the circuit breaker or fuse box. The thermostat display should illuminate, and you can now proceed to configure its settings.
5. Operating Your Thermostat
The Honeywell RTHL3550D is designed for straightforward operation.
5.1. Adjusting Temperature
To change the desired temperature setting, use the Up (▲) and Down (▼) arrow buttons located on the right side of the thermostat. The display will show the current room temperature and the set temperature.
5.2. System Mode Selection
Press the System button (usually located below the display) to cycle through the available modes: Heat, Cool, and Off. Select the mode appropriate for your comfort needs.
5.3. Fan Mode Selection
Press the Fan button (usually located below the display) to select the fan operation mode: Auto or On.
- Auto: The fan runs only when the heating or cooling system is actively operating.
- On: The fan runs continuously, regardless of whether the heating or cooling system is active.
5.4. Backlight
The display features a backlight for improved visibility in low-light conditions. The backlight activates automatically when any button is pressed and remains on for a short period.

A detailed view of the thermostat's digital screen, highlighting the temperature readings, fan status (Auto), and system mode (Cool), with the up and down arrow buttons visible on the right.
6. Maintenance
6.1. Battery Replacement
The thermostat is powered by two AA alkaline batteries. When the battery power is low, a low battery indicator will appear on the display. Replace the batteries promptly to ensure continuous operation and to prevent loss of settings.
- Gently pull the thermostat unit forward from its wall-mounted base.
- Open the battery compartment on the back of the unit.
- Remove the old batteries and insert two new AA alkaline batteries, observing the correct polarity.
- Snap the thermostat unit back onto its wall plate.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your thermostat, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- No Display: Check if the batteries are correctly installed and have sufficient charge. Replace batteries if necessary. Ensure power to the HVAC system is on.
- System Not Responding: Verify that the system mode (Heat/Cool/Off) and fan mode (Auto/On) are correctly selected. Check the circuit breaker for your HVAC system. Ensure all wiring connections are secure.
- Inaccurate Temperature Reading: Ensure the thermostat is not exposed to direct sunlight, drafts, or heat sources that could affect its sensor.
- Auto Changeover Function: If using the auto changeover feature, note that there must be a minimum 3-degree difference between heating and cooling set points. The cooling set point must be higher than the heating set point.
If problems persist, contact Honeywell customer support or a qualified HVAC technician.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Honeywell |
| Model Name | RTHL3550D |
| Controller Type | Push Button |
| Special Feature | Auto Changeover |
| Color | White |
| Temperature Control Type | Digital, Manual |
| Power Source | Battery Powered (2 AA batteries required) |
| Voltage | 24 Volts |
| Display Type | Digital |
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount |
| Backlight | Yes |
| Item Weight | 7.7 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 8.37 x 7.12 x 9 inches |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1. Warranty Information
Honeywell products are manufactured to the highest standards and are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Honeywell website for detailed warranty terms and conditions.
9.2. Customer Support
For technical assistance, product inquiries, or to locate authorized service centers, please visit the official Honeywell website or contact their customer support line. Contact information can typically be found on the Honeywell website or on the product packaging.