Heat Pump Thermorstat / Humidistat

[JTeller]

I have a Florida vacation home that I only get to infrequently.
I would like to replace the mechanical thermostat Heat pump) with a
programmable one that also monitors humidity (need to reduce
humidity, never raise it). Another feature I would like to have
in a thermostat is an "auto" setting so that I don't need to
make a trip to this house when the heating / cooling needs
switch (this is northern Florida, so there is the possibility of
freezing temperatures in the winter and early spring).

I have looked at a Ritetemp model 8082c, sold at a national
warehouse store. It has both the features above. But when
I read the installation guide available on the internet, it states
that the "max humidity" setting will only work with the thermostat
in the "cool" mode. I've written the company, but have gotten
no reply. I don't know if "cool" mode means the actual setting
(cool, auto, heat), or that the current temperature would favor
"cooling" vs "heating". If I can't use the humidity control and auto
feature with this model, I would like to find a thermostat / humidistat
that would allow me to have both. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Jim

PS: I do understand that dehumidifying is accomplished by cooling
the air to condense out the moisture.

[scottg]

Honeywell has a commucating interface that can control humidity, cooling and heating. This can all be monitored with a phone call. You can also change the settings by a phone call.
Check it out at
http://customer.honeywell.com/enviraCom/default.asp

[JTeller]

Thanks for the link to Honeywell. At this time the vacation house
has no phone. A victim of technology, I use a cell phone only,
as when "getting away" at this home, I don't wish to get to the
internet, or watch TV (cable or satellite). Maybe a monthly
phone bill along with the Honeywell device would be a cost effective
solution anyway.

Thanks again,
Jim