When you’re looking for ways to lower utility expenses, installing a smart thermostat is a smart idea. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that matches. What’s even better is that you can regulate and keep an eye on your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or away from home. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Menomonie and western Wisconsin.)
Most of the time, adding a smart home thermostat with the help of Halverson Brothers Inc is a simple job if you have a more modern home. But what if your home is older or doesn’t have the right wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can pick the right thermostat and receive energy savings for years to come.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Most programmable thermostats use batteries. When you’re switching to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many need a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat could cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.
You can determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Cut 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’s needed for a smart thermostat. You might be pondering what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is typically blue.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re nearly there. Check the C wire isn’t rolled up within the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to add 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 install a smart thermostat with an adaptor designed for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to operate a battery-powered smart thermostat, like the Lux Geo Wi-Fi Thermostat, if your wiring is incompatible and you don’t want to replace it.
Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?
Two of the most popular brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats may be a match for your needs.
Nest says its thermostats are designed to need minimal power and can frequently share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a professional like Halverson Brothers 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 frequently drained.
ecobee works with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and comes with a C wire adaptor. So, you’re covered if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Trust Halverson Brothers Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Halverson Brothers Inc, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you cozier while keeping heating and cooling costs low. If you want to learn more about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 715-352-4052. We can help you select the right model for your residence and even add new wiring if needed.