When you’re wanting methods to reduce utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent idea. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can regulate and watch your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Mechanicsburg.)
In most instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the help of H & H Service Company is a straightforward process if you have a new house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can select the proper thermostat and receive energy savings for a long time.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
The majority of programmable thermostats run on batteries. When you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many need a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t have this wire, your new thermostat may cause your heating and cooling system to have glitches.
You can find out if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Switch off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Remove the thermostat and check the wiring.
- If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s needed for a smart thermostat. You might be thinking what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is often blue.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re almost there. Ensure the C wire isn’t rolled up in the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to add one for you or you may be able to use your new thermostat without one.
- If you have two thick wires, you may be able to install a smart thermostat with an adaptor specifically for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to install a battery-powered smart thermostat, like the Lux Geo Wi-Fi Thermostat, if your wiring won’t work and you don’t want to replace it.
Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?
Two of the best-selling brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats might be an option for your home.
Nest says its thermostats are designed to run on not a lot of power and can typically share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a specialist like H & H Service Company put in a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s always drained.
ecobee connects with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and has a C wire adaptor. So, you’re covered if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Trust H & H Service Company for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At H & H Service Company, we’re always on the lookout for approaches to keep you cozier while keeping utility expenses low. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 717-220-4502. We can help you choose the right model for your residence and even add new wiring if required.