When you’re wanting ways to reduce heating and cooling expenses, installing a smart thermostat is an intelligent decision. These devices adjust to the temperatures you like and routine and then develop 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 lying in bed or on the go. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Fort Lauderdale.)
In most instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the help of Solar Air Inc. is an uncomplicated process if you have a more modern residence. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can pick the correct thermostat and receive 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 switching to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many need a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t use this wire, your new thermostat might cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.
You can ascertain if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Cut power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Pull off the thermostat and find the wiring.
- If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s required for a smart thermostat. You might be wondering 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. Make sure the C wire isn’t tucked in 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 just for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to use 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 be a match for your home.
Nest says its thermostats are designed to require minimal power and can frequently share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a professional like Solar Air Inc. add a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s constantly drained.
ecobee connects 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 Solar Air Inc. for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Solar Air Inc. , we’re always looking for methods to keep you comfier while keeping utility costs inexpensive. If you have questions about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 954-320-7398. We can help you select the right model for your home and even install new wiring if necessary.