Frequently Asked Questions
Panel/module compatibility
Smart Humidity Control is available on systems with Z-Wave versions 2.13+.
| Panel type | Minimum version |
|---|---|
| 2GIG EDGE | All panel versions |
| 2GIG GoControl / GC2 / GC2e | Panel version 1.13 |
| 2GIG GC3 / GC3e | Panel version 3.0.1 |
| DSC PowerSeries Neo | Module version 185e |
| DSC Impassa | Module version 1.3 |
| Interlogix Simon XT / XTi | Module version 185b |
| Interlogix NX | Module version 185a |
| Interlogix Concord | Module version 185b |
| Qolsys IQ / DSC Touch | Incompatible |
| Qolsys IQ Panel 2 | Panel version 2.0.0 |
| Qolsys IQ Hub / IQ Panel 4 / IQ4 Hub / IQ Pro / IQ4 NS | All panel versions |
| SEM - Honeywell/ADEMCO Vista | SEM version 187 |
| SEM - DSC PowerSeries | SEM version 185a |
| Alarm.com Hub / B36 Hub / PC Hub 2.0 | Hub version 185c |
Why am I unable to set a minimum humidity threshold?
- No humidifier connected to the system.
- NO eligible Smart Thermostat (T3000 or T2000 with firmware version 1.50+).
- HVAC system is not properly configured (no cool stages or unconfigured Z terminal).
- No thermostat on the Alarm.com account.
- Not enrolled in a service package that supports this feature.
Can the user change humidity settings on the Alarm.com mobile app?
Yes. The user can enable, disable, and adjust the settings of humidity control using the Alarm.com app or website.
How is an external humidifier or dehumidifier wired into the Smart Thermostat?
Humidity control systems can have a few different configuration types. See the installation guide here.
The HVAC system has a dehumidification mode, can that be used?
Yes. Most HVAC systems use a wire to control this mode. Determine which wire is used for humidity control in the user’s system. It typically is a non-conventional label such as X or S. Wire this into the Z-terminal and configure the terminal to be a dehumidifier. The system now knows when it needs to run in dehumidification mode based on the humidity setpoint set from the Customer Website or app.
What is the best humidity setting for avoiding mold growth?
Humidity over 70% greatly increases the risk of mold growth, which can cause significant property damage if left unnoticed or untreated. Alarm.com defaults the setpoint to 70% for this purpose. Some people begin to feel uncomfortable around 65% humidity, and mold growth can vary by region.
What is a comfortable minimum humidity level?
Most people find humidity levels below 25% to be uncomfortable, which is the default minimum setpoint. Some people find levels below 40% uncomfortable.
Does the Smart Humidity Control save energy?
Humidity control is primarily a feature targeted to maximize comfort. Generally, it requires more energy to maintain a comfortable humidity and temperature range than it does to simply monitor temperature. The true savings of humidity control comes from the property protection. Preventing high humidity levels that increase the chance of mold growth can save the customer from expensive repairs due to mold damage.
Does the Alarm.com Smart Thermostat work on battery power only?
It is not required to connect the thermostat to AC power, but when relying on battery power only, it is not able to act as a Z-Wave repeater. All other functions are able to be performed.
More information on Alarm.com Smart Thermostats can be found here: