When you’re wanting methods to reduce energy costs, getting a smart thermostat is a smart decision. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that matches. What’s even better is that you can change and monitor your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in Newton.)
In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the help of Brookwood Inc is a simple process if you have a new house. But what if your home is older or doesn’t have the right wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can select the proper thermostat and get energy savings for many years.
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 require 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 determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Pull 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 nearly there. Make sure the C wire isn’t hidden in 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 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 may be a fit for your needs.
Nest says its thermostats are created to run on not a lot of power and can often share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a pro like Brookwood Inc install a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s frequently drained.
ecobee works with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and includes a C wire adaptor. So, you’re good if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Depend on Brookwood Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Brookwood Inc, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you comfier while keeping energy expenses reasonable. If you want to learn more about switching to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 641-316-9803. We can help you choose the right model for your home and even add new wiring if required.