An HVAC controller may be programmed using a mobile device that includes a touch screen display configured to display information and to permit a user to enter information. A network connection is configured to communicate with a remote server that is itself in operative communication with the HVAC controller. A controller may display one or more screens on the touch screen display of the mobile device and to accept input from a user to remotely program one or more functions of the HVAC controller. The controller may provide a tour via the touch screen display of the mobile device that guides a user though programming functions of the HVAC controller and may output the one or more programmed functions of the HVAC controller to the remote server via the network connection.