When you’re wanting methods to lower energy bills, getting a smart thermostat is a smart decision. These devices pick up on your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can change and keep an eye on your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or away from home. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Branchville.)
In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. is a simple job if you have a new house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the right wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can choose the correct thermostat and enjoy energy savings for a long time.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Many programmable thermostats run on batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll discover that many have to have a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t use this wire, your new thermostat could cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.
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 find the wiring.
- If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what you need for a smart thermostat. You might be pondering what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is usually blue.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re nearly there. Ensure the C wire isn’t tucked inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to put in one for you or you may be able to run your new thermostat without one.
- If you have two thick wires, you may be able to use a smart thermostat with an adaptor just 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 is incompatible and you don’t want to install new wiring.
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 needs.
Nest says its thermostats are created to run on minimal power and can typically share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a professional like Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. put in a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re experiencing power problems or a battery that’s constantly drained.
ecobee is compatible with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and includes a C wire adaptor. So, you’re covered if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Depend on Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc., we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you cozier while keeping heating and cooling costs reasonable. If you want to learn more about switching to a smart thermostat without a C wire, contact us at 862-345-6896. We can help you select the right model for your residence and even add new wiring if required.
