When you’re wanting methods to reduce utility bills, getting a smart thermostat is a smart decision. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can adjust and monitor your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or out and about. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Yukon.)
Most of the time, installing a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning is an uncomplicated job if you have a newer house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the right wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can select the right thermostat and get energy savings for years to come.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
The majority of programmable thermostats need batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn 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 malfunctions.
You can ascertain if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Cut 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’s required for a smart thermostat. You might be thinking 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 almost there. Ensure the C wire isn’t rolled up in 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 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 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 made to consume minimal power and can frequently share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a specialist like Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning install 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 connects with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and comes with a C wire adaptor. So, you’re taken care of if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Rely on Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping energy expenses reasonable. If you want to learn more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 405-494-7444. We can help you pick the right model for your house and even install new wiring if needed.
