When you’re looking for methods to decrease energy expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a smart move. These devices pick up on your favorite temperatures and routine and then make an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can adjust and keep an eye on your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or away from home. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in Fredericksburg.)
In most instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Childress Heating & AC is an uncomplicated process if you have a more modern house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can choose the recommended thermostat and enjoy energy savings for years to come.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Most programmable thermostats run on batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll find that many have to have a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t use 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.
- Take off the thermostat and check 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 typically blue.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re close. Ensure the C wire isn’t hidden within the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to install 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 run 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 won’t work and you don’t want to install new wiring.
Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?
Two of the top brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats might work for you.
Nest says its thermostats are designed to require not a lot of power and can typically share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a professional like Childress Heating & AC install a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re running into power problems or a battery that’s always drained.
ecobee is compatible 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 Childress Heating & AC for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Childress Heating & AC, we’re always looking for methods to keep you comfier while keeping heating and cooling expenses reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, contact us at 540-675-4306. We can help you choose the right model for your residence and even add new wiring if necessary.