The Lux Products TX500E Smart Temp Programmable Thermostat is an Energy Star recommended thermostat that costs under $30. It is a 5+2 thermostat. This means it has a program slot for weekdays and a program slot for the weekend. However, it also has a programmable vacation mode that could be used as an extra program, making the device 5-1-1. As with all good programmable thermostats, each program consists of 4 periods: wake, leave, return, sleep.

The Lux Products TX500E Smart Temp is the model down from the Lux Products TX1500E and has a similar array of functions. It has the Lux Products patented speed dial for quick programming. It also has a keyboard lockout similar to other Lux thermostats. The display can show the temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius. As well as displaying set point temperature and time, it also has a filter warning and battery change warning. The only drawback about the display is that it doesn't have a backlight.

The Lux Products TX500E Smart Temp also features swing control that can be adjusted to up to 5 degrees Fahrenheit, and temporary hold for quick changes to room temperature. The thermostat comes with default Energy Star settings to help the user make the most economical choices for heating and cooling.

This programmable thermostat can cycle the fan and has a mercury free display. For people who tend to keep the same routine during the week and at the weekend the Lux Products TX500E Smart Temp is a good choice. It is also unbeatable value for money.

• 5+2 Programmable Thermostat + 4 Periods Per Day
• Swing Control
• Temporary Hold
• Programmable Vacation Mode
• Compatible with 1 Stage Heating, 1 Stage Cooling, 1 Stage Heat Pumps, Gas, Electric and 2 Wire Heat Only Hydronic System
• Keyboard Lockout
• Filter Warning
• Cycle Fan
• Battery Powered
• 1 Year Warranty

Click the link to buy a cheap Lux Products TX500E Smart Temp Programmable Thermostat on Amazon